New Zealand citizens who were not in Australia prior to 26 February 2001 but were in Australia between 27 February 2001 and 26 May 2001 have a final chance to seek a certificate of residence from the Australian Government - but only if they apply before 25 February 2004. Administered by Centerlink, you need to have your New Zealand passport and call Centerlink on 13 16 73.

New Zealand citizens who were here on 26 February 2001 are entitled to sponsor family for permanent residence, seek Australian citizenship and apply, if necessary and eligible, for various government benefits.

The key migration changes on 26 February 2001 include

- the loss of entitlement to sponsor non NZ citizen family members for permanent residence, instead being able to sponsor for a 5 year temporary visa

- the loss of entitlement to apply for Australian citizenship, with the need to apply for permanent residence and meet the migration criteria before being eligible to apply for Australian citizenship

- the loss of entitlement for some Australian social security benefits (eg entitlements to unemployment benefits and some other benefits prior to receiving the old age pension).

New Zealand citizens who arrived after 27 February 2001 are now required to meet the migration regulations for permanent residence. The skilled migration options require you to be under 45 at the time of application.