Relocating to Australia is an exciting step for many New Zealanders, whether for work, lifestyle, or family. Thanks to the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement, the process is relatively straightforward — but that doesn’t mean you can board a flight unprepared. Ensuring you have the correct documents in hand will help you settle in faster and avoid unnecessary stress.
This guide outlines the essential paperwork and processes you’ll need to navigate a successful international relocation.
Essential Documentation for Moving to Australia
Even though New Zealanders don’t need to apply for a visa in advance, you’ll still need to meet certain criteria to live and work in Australia. Documentation helps confirm your residency status, supports customs processes, and allows you to access services like healthcare, banking, and employment. Having a complete relocation checklist makes your move smoother and minimises surprises after arrival.
Key categories of documents include:
- Travel and immigration documents (passport, Incoming Passenger Card)
- Customs and shipping paperwork
- Personal and financial records
- Work, education, and medical history
Passports and Visa Requirements
New Zealand citizens are typically granted a Special Category Visa (subclass 444) on arrival in Australia. This allows indefinite stay and full work rights without a pre-arranged visa. However, to receive this, you must:
- Hold a valid New Zealand passport
- Pass health and character checks, including no serious criminal history
Before flying, make sure your passport is valid for the full duration of your planned stay. Upon entry, you will be required to complete an Incoming Passenger Card (IPC), which captures your personal details, purpose of visit, and customs declarations.
You can verify all visa and SCV entitlements on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
Customs and Quarantine Declarations
Australia has some of the world’s strictest biosecurity and customs controls. Failure to comply can result in heavy fines. You must declare items such as:
- Food, seeds, and plant products
- Wooden or handmade items
- Soil-contaminated footwear or sports gear
- Animal products or equipment
When shipping goods separately, you’ll need to fill out a B534 Unaccompanied Personal Effects Statement. This allows your personal belongings to clear customs duty-free if properly declared.
For full details on what you must declare, consult the Australian Border Force guidelines.
Important Personal and Financial Documents
Having the right records on hand will help you set up essential services and settle into everyday life. The following documents are useful – and in some cases necessary – for getting started:
- Proof of identity: Passport, birth certificate, driver’s licence
Educational certificates: School transcripts, diplomas, degrees - Employment records: CV, references, payslips
- Medical documentation: Vaccination records, prescriptions
- Financial records: Recent bank statements, credit history
- Health insurance paperwork: Especially if you’re not eligible for Medicare straight away
You’ll also need these documents for setting up a bank account, enrolling children in school, and accessing housing or tenancy services.
Tips for a Smooth Relocation Process
Relocating across the Tasman doesn’t have to be overwhelming. These tips will help you stay organised and reduce last-minute stress:
- Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) through the Australian Taxation Office. A TFN is required for employment and tax purposes.
- Set up your bank account early. Most Australian banks allow online applications before arrival.
- Transfer your driver’s licence within three months of arriving. Requirements vary by state or territory, so check with local authorities.
- Enrol in Medicare, Australia’s public health system, once you’ve established residency. You’ll need ID and proof of address.
- Scan and store digital copies of all documents securely in cloud storage.
- Prepare pet relocation paperwork and import permits if you’re bringing animals with you.
Keeping a personalised checklist can make a significant difference. You may also wish to engage a relocation specialist to support your move end-to-end.
Get Expert Help for a Hassle-Free Move
Having your documents ready is only part of the journey. Grace NZ offers expert moving services designed to help you with customs clearance, shipping logistics, and storage — so you can focus on settling in. Whether you’re relocating to Australia or organising a broader international relocation, our team is ready to assist. Try our quick quote tool to start planning your next chapter today.
