At a glance
- CurrencyNZD. Top tier on broker lists.
- Tax treaty with AustraliaYes. The current double tax agreement has been in force since 2010.
- Moving money outWe found no country-specific limit to flag. Check your own country’s rules before you transfer.
How lenders see income from New Zealand
New Zealand dollars are on the preferred currency list at Australian non-resident lenders, and a Special Category visa (444) is among the visa classes lenders assess. Policies differ, so ask a broker which lenders accept your visa and your time in Australia.
The percentage of income counted, the loan size and the deposit all depend on your status as well as your currency. See Australians overseas, foreign nationals and how foreign income is counted.
Tax
New Zealand citizens are generally granted a Special Category visa on arrival in Australia. The federal foreign-buyer rules treat a holder like an Australian, but some states apply their own residence tests before waiving the foreign-buyer surcharge, so check the state before you sign.
The general rules for overseas owners are on our tax page.
A roadmap for a buyer living in New Zealand
Free, on screen straight away: the documents, cash, timeline and tax points for your situation. Get your loan roadmap.
Frequently asked questions
Will Australian lenders accept NZD income?
New Zealand dollars are on the preferred currency list at Australian non-resident lenders, and a Special Category visa (444) is among the visa classes lenders assess. Policies differ, so ask a broker which lenders accept your visa and your time in Australia.
Does Australia have a tax treaty with New Zealand?
Yes. The current double tax agreement has been in force since 2010.
Sources
- Home Affairs: Special Category visa (subclass 444)
- Odin Mortgage: Australian expat home loans (broker page)
- Home Loan Experts: Foreign income home loans (broker page)
- Treasury: Income tax treaties
Checked 7 October 2026. Broker figures are indicative.
Expat Finance is an independent guide. It is not a lender, mortgage broker or credit provider, it does not hold an Australian credit licence, and it does not give credit, legal, tax or migration advice. It is not affiliated with any bank, the ATO or the Foreign Investment Review Board. General information only, not legal, tax, migration or financial advice.