Skilled Independent visa, New Zealand stream 189
Closed to new primary applicants from 1 July 2023. New Zealand citizens now have a direct pathway to citizenship.
Closed to new applicants
Who it is for
Eligible New Zealand citizens who applied before the stream closed. Home Affairs continues to process applications on hand. Partners and children can still be added to applications lodged before 10 December 2022.
Main requirements
- New applications cannot be lodged. The stream closed permanently to new primary applicants on 1 July 2023.
- Applicants had to be in Australia holding a Special Category visa (444) when they applied.
- On-hand applicants may consider withdrawing and applying for citizenship by conferral under the direct pathway; first instalment charges are not refunded.
Where you apply from
Closed. Previously in Australia holding a 444.
Your journey, step by step
From the first enquiry to the decision and after, with how a registered migration agent helps at each step. No step promises an outcome.
- Review a pending application
Decide whether to continue or apply for citizenship directly.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent compares the cost and timing of the second instalment against a citizenship application. - Continue or withdraw
Withdraw in ImmiAccount if choosing citizenship.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent explains that first instalment charges are not refunded. - Citizenship
Apply for citizenship by conferral if eligible.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent checks citizenship eligibility.
Government charges from 1 July 2026
Paid to the Department of Home Affairs, not to us.
| Applicant or item | Charge (A$) |
|---|---|
| New applications | Closed |
The charge was paid in two instalments (20% at lodgement, 80% before grant). The stream is closed and the Home Affairs pricing table no longer lists a charge for it. Check every charge in the Home Affairs Visa Pricing Estimator.
Processing times
Home Affairs visa processing time guide. Read 22 October 2026. A guide only, not a promise.
| New Zealand stream (applications on hand) | 50% in 54 months, 90% in 61 months |
|---|
Common refusal reasons
- Not applicable to new applications.
Document checklist
Tick items as you gather them. Your ticks stay on this device only.
- Pending applicants
Recent and upcoming changes
- 1 July 2023
Closed permanently to new primary applicants.
- 10 December 2022
Applications paused; applications made before this date are still processed.
Talk it through before you apply.
The first 15 minutes are free and general. Personal advice starts after a written service agreement.
Information checked 22 October 2026. General information only, not advice for your situation. Rules and charges change; check the official sources before you act.