Subclass 461 New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship Visa
A 5-year temporary visa for partners of New Zealand citizens holding a Special Category Subclass 444 visa, allowing you to live, work, and study in Australia.
The Subclass 461 New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship visa is a 5-year temporary visa for people in a de facto or married relationship with a New Zealand citizen who holds a Special Category Subclass 444 visa. It allows you to live, work, and study in Australia for the duration of the visa.
The SCV 444 is the visa that permits NZ citizens who arrived in Australia after 26 February 2001 to live and work indefinitely, provided they retain NZ citizenship. If your NZ partner is an "Eligible New Zealand Citizen" (living in Australia on 26 February 2001 or for one year in the two years prior), you should consider the Subclass 820 Partner Visa instead, as it leads to permanent residence.
The visa remains valid even if the relationship ends during the visa period, and you may be eligible to reapply.
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be in a genuine de facto or married relationship with an NZ citizen holding SCV 444
- If partner is an "Eligible NZ Citizen", consider Subclass 820 instead (PR pathway)
- Meet health and character requirements
- Can apply from inside or outside Australia
Costs & Processing Time
Processing Time
Processing times vary. Check the Department of Home Affairs website for current estimates.
About the Subclass 461 New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship Visa
A 5-year temporary visa for partners of New Zealand citizens holding a Special Category Subclass 444 visa, allowing you to live, work, and study in Australia.
Articles for this visa are coming soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work and study on this visa?
Yes. The Subclass 461 grants full work and study rights in Australia for the 5-year visa duration.
Does this visa lead to permanent residence?
No. The 461 is a temporary visa. If your NZ partner qualifies as an "Eligible NZ Citizen", consider the Subclass 820/801 Partner Visa for a PR pathway.
What if my relationship breaks down?
The visa remains valid even after the relationship ends. You may reapply if you enter a new relationship with an NZ citizen holding SCV 444.
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