Documentation needed for moving from New Zealand to Australia

Deciding to move to Australia? An exciting new life awaits you! But before you begin tucking into that Vegemite and calling your chilly bin an esky, you need to start planning your relocation. Aside from booking your movers and packing your belongings, you'll also need to make sure you have the right documentation for your move.

As we're highly experienced at helping Kiwis make the move across the Tasman and settle into their new homes across Australia, we know exactly what's required. Here's what documentation you need for your move to Australia.

Documentation is an essential part of any move, and moving internationally means having the right paperwork to enter the country smoothly. We've broken it down into categories so it's easy to see what you need before you go.

As a New Zealand citizen, you'll need a valid New Zealand passport to enter Australia. On arrival, you'll automatically be granted a Special Category visa (subclass 444), so there's no need to apply in advance. New Zealand citizens with tuberculosis or criminal convictions may not be eligible and should discuss their options with their local Australian immigration office beforehand.

The SCV lets you visit, study, live and work in Australia for as long as you remain a New Zealand citizen and don't leave the country, but it doesn't carry the same rights as Australian citizenship or permanent residency. The good news is that since July 2023, eligible SCV holders have had a direct pathway to permanent residency and citizenship, without needing to go through the standard skilled migration process. Generally, this requires around four years of usual residence in Australia and meeting an income threshold that's adjusted each year, so it's worth checking the current criteria on the Department of Home Affairs website if this applies to you.

Aside from your passport, it's worth printing your flight itinerary, airline tickets and any other travel documents to keep with you throughout the move.

Along with your passport, bring any personal identification documents that can help confirm who you are. These can include:

• Driving licence
• Birth certificate
• Kiwi Access Card (formerly the 18+ Card)
• New Zealand citizenship certificate
• University degree certificate and any other relevant qualifications
• Marriage certificate

Bring anything else that helps prove your identity too, since these documents get used when signing an employment contract, renting or buying a home, and applying for an Australian driver's licence.

You no longer need proof of COVID-19 vaccination to enter Australia, though this is subject to change, so it's worth having a copy of your vaccination records on hand regardless. If you're bringing medication, check whether it's an allowed substance for entry into Australia, as some may require a letter from your doctor. Bring any relevant medical history, prescriptions and other health records with you too.

Before you move, decide whether you'll keep or close your New Zealand bank accounts. If you're setting up in Australia, you can generally open an Australian bank account online before you relocate and transfer your money across.

You'll need a copy of your banking and financial documents if you plan to rent or buy a home in Australia, so bring copies of your bank statements from the past six months along with proof of assets.

If you hold any insurance, whether health, home, contents, vehicle or relocation, bring printed copies of the documentation. For moving insurance specifically, it's worth photographing your belongings and furniture before the move and recording relevant serial numbers, and registering expensive or specialised items with the relevant insurer.

If you're bringing your cat or dog to Australia, you'll need the right documentation to bring them in successfully. This can include:

• Vaccination records from an MPI-approved vet
• A completed owner statutory declaration form
• Evidence that your pet is microchipped

You can find full details on importing your cat or dog from New Zealand to Australia on the Ministry for Primary Industries website. A pet relocation service will also make sure you have everything required, and it's worth knowing some airlines will only work with official pet exporters or relocation services.

If you're relocating your vehicle from New Zealand to Australia, you'll need the right paperwork, including:

• Vehicle type approval
• A purchase receipt for your vehicle, particularly if it's a luxury vehicle valued above the current Luxury Car Tax threshold
• A record of any modifications
• Registration and insurance documentation

The Luxury Car Tax threshold is reviewed and adjusted most years, so check the current figure on the ATO website rather than relying on a fixed number. A vehicle transportation service can also advise on exactly what documentation you'll need for your specific vehicle.

Need more help preparing for your move? Check out our comprehensive moving to Australia checklist for an easy guide to getting ready.

With a global network of movers, including offices across New Zealand and 40 locations within Australia, Allied handles your move from start to finish, from packing up in New Zealand to helping you settle into your new home. If you have any other questions about your move from New Zealand to Australia, reach out to our friendly team, we're happy to guide you through the preparations for your next relocation.

Not in advance. New Zealand citizens are automatically granted a Special Category visa (subclass 444) on arrival, provided there are no character or health concerns.

Yes. Since July 2023, eligible SCV holders have had a direct pathway to permanent residency and citizenship after meeting a residence period and income threshold, without needing to go through standard skilled migration.

You'll generally need vaccination records from an MPI-approved vet, a completed owner statutory declaration, and evidence your pet is microchipped. Check the MPI website for the full current requirements before you travel.