New Zealand stream visa temporarily closed

IMPACT — MEDIUM

The Australian government temporarily closed the New Zealand stream visa (subclass 189) to new applications.

Key Points:

• New Zealand nationals can no longer submit applications for the New Zealand stream visa until at least July 1, 2023.
• Australian authorities will continue to process New Zealand stream visa applications that were submitted before Dec. 10, 2022.
• For applications submitted before Dec. 10, 2022, Australian authorities no longer require individuals to:
  • Be a resident in Australia for a continuous period of at least five years immediately before the application’s submission date, and that residence began prior to Feb. 19, 2016.
  • Meet the taxable income threshold in relation to three income years within five years immediately before the application’s submission date.
  • Satisfy Public Interest Criterion 4007 relating to health.

Additional Information: More information regarding the temporary closure the of the New Zealand stream visa is available here.

BAL Analysis: The Australian government temporarily closed the New Zealand stream visa to new applications as it evaluated future immigration options for New Zealand nationals in Australia. Certain requirements for the stream were removed to streamline visa processing for those who submitted applications before the Dec. 10, 2022, cutoff.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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