New ZealandPermanent Residents are residents of New Zealand, who hold a permanent resident visa, which – superficially seen – makes them equal to New Zealand citizens. A permanent resident visa must not be confused with a resident visa. This article refers to the terms “resident” and “permanent resident” only in the scope of immigration purposes and describes the current situation based on the Immigration Act 2009. There are other definitions for residents in tax or electoral affairs.
Similarities between a resident and a permanent resident visa
The holder of any resident class visa is entitled:
to sponsor a partner, parents or dependent children during their visa application
Differences between a resident and a permanent resident visa
A permanent resident visa holder is entitled to be granted entry permission at the border at any time, while the resident visa holder is only entitled to apply for entry permission. All other rights become only effective, if entry is granted to the resident visa holder. Generally, a resident visa is issued with travel conditions, which allow the holder to re-enter the country multiple times until these conditions expire. After that the holder may remain in the country legally but must not leave it or lose its resident status.
hold or have held a resident visa in the last three months
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hold, or have held that resident visa for at least two years continuously
be of good character
have met any conditions that the resident visa was subject to
Commitment to New Zealand can be met by spending enough time in the country, by becoming a tax resident, by owning a business, by investing in New Zealand or by establishing a base.
is entitled to live and work in Australia indefinitely
transmits their citizenship to their children
Pathways to a permanent resident visa
The way to a permanent resident visa always leads through a two-year resident visa. In any case you will need to be invited to apply for a resident visa by Immigration NZ. Currently there are the following categories through one can obtain a resident visa:
and Australian permanent residents can enter New Zealand and live in New Zealand indefinitely without a visa, provided they meet the health and character requirements. They are assumed to hold a New Zealand resident visa while in New Zealand with a few key differences:
Australian citizens and permanent residents who have lived in New Zealand for less than two years are not entitled to subsidised GP visits or ambulance costs.
