The SCV is technically classified as a temporary visa, despite its holder's residence in Australia not being subject to any limitation as to time imposed by law.
Prior to that date, New Zealanders were generally treated as exempt non-citizens in Australia, not requiring a visa for entry.
Under the 1994 regulations, New Zealanders entering Australia are treated as having applied for a temporary entry visa, which is automatically granted, subject to health and character considerations, on arrival.
After that date, they are considered protected SCV holders and retain the same rights as permanent residents if they meet one of the following conditions: They are eligible for most social security benefits without restriction.
Section 204 of the Migration Act 1958 includes all SCV holders within the definition of 'permanent resident' on the basis they are 'not subject to any limitation as to time imposed by law'.
[14] Until 31 December 2022, New Zealand citizens who were granted the subclass 189 NZ visa were eligible to apply for Australian citizenship after 12 months, in addition to the 5 years as a SCV holder.
Since 1 January 2023, New Zealand citizens who have been granted the subclass 189 NZ visa can immediately apply for Australian citizenship without the need to hold permanent residency for 12 months.
[21] The accelerated deportation of New Zealanders (many of whom had spent most of their lives in Australia) under the 501 character test has strained bilateral relations between Wellington and Canberra.
Due to limited family connections, poverty, and poor employment opportunities, many former deportees relapsed into criminal offender.
Between January 2015 and March 2022, former deportees accounted for 8,000 offenses including dishonesty, violent crime, drugs, and anti-social behaviour.
[24] In addition, the 501 deportation policy also contributed to a surge in organised crime in New Zealand due to the repatriation of Comanchero and Mongol bikie gang members.