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Application Process

Steps involved in applying for New Zealand citizenship, including documentation, fees, and submission methods.

Sections

1. Age

  • You must be at least 16 years old to apply independently.
  • If under 16, a parent or legal guardian must apply on your behalf.

2. Permanent Residency

  • You must hold New Zealand permanent residency (PR) or have been an Australian citizen or permanent resident living in New Zealand.
  • You must have held PR for at least 5 years before applying.

3. Physical Presence (Residence Requirement)

  • You must have lived in New Zealand for at least:
    • 1,350 days during the last 5 years, and
    • 240 days in each of those 5 years.
  • Time spent outside New Zealand may count if you were serving the New Zealand government or working for an international organization.

4. Good Character

  • You must be of good character, which means no serious criminal convictions or immigration offenses.
  • Police and background checks will be conducted as part of the application process.

5. English Language

  • You must have a basic understanding of the English language. This is assessed during the application process.

6. Intention to Stay

  • You must intend to continue living in New Zealand or maintain a close and ongoing connection to the country.

Application Process for Citizenship by Grant

Here is a step-by-step guide to applying for New Zealand citizenship by grant:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

You will need to provide the following documents:

  • Proof of Identity:
    • Your birth certificate (translated into English if necessary).
    • A valid passport or travel document.
  • Proof of Residency:
    • Evidence of your New Zealand permanent residency (e.g., PR visa or residence permit).
  • Character References:
    • Two character references from people who are over 16, have known you for at least a year, and are not related to you.
  • Other Documents:
    • Marriage or civil union certificate (if applicable).
    • Evidence of name changes (if applicable).

Step 2: Complete the Application Form

  • Download and complete the Application for New Zealand Citizenship โ€“ Adult (Form NZL 92) from the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) website.
  • If applying for a child under 16, use the Child Citizenship Application Form (Form NZL 93).

Step 3: Submit Your Application

  • Submit your completed application form and supporting documents either:
    • Online: Through the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) website.
    • In Person: At a DIA office in New Zealand.
  • You will also need to provide a passport-sized photo that meets New Zealandโ€™s photo requirements.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

  • The application fee for citizenship by grant is:
    • NZD $470.20 for adults (16 years and older).
    • NZD $235.10 for children under 16.
  • Payment can be made online or in person at the time of submission.

Step 5: Attend an Interview (if required)

  • Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview to verify their identity, assess their English proficiency, or clarify details about their application.

Step 6: Wait for Processing

  • The processing time for citizenship applications is typically 7 to 12 months, but it can vary depending on the complexity of your case and the volume of applications.

Step 7: Attend the Citizenship Ceremony

  • If your application is approved, you will be invited to attend a citizenship ceremony in your local area.
  • At the ceremony, you will take the Oath or Affirmation of Allegiance to New Zealand and officially become a citizen.
  • You will receive your citizenship certificate at the ceremony.

Key Considerations

  1. Dual Citizenship:

    • New Zealand allows dual or multiple citizenships. However, you should check whether your home country permits dual citizenship, as some countries require you to renounce your original citizenship.

  2. English Language Requirement:

    • While there is no formal test, you may be asked questions during the application process to assess your basic English skills.

  3. Good Character Assessment:

    • Minor traffic offenses (e.g., speeding tickets) are usually not an issue, but serious criminal convictions or ongoing legal issues may result in your application being declined.

  4. Residency Requirement Exceptions:

    • If you have been working overseas for the New Zealand government or an international organization, you may still meet the residency requirement.

  5. Application Rejection:

    • If your application is declined, you will be informed of the reasons and may appeal the decision or reapply after addressing the issues.

Costs

Here is a summary of the costs involved:

  • Application Fee:
    • Adults: NZD $470.20
    • Children: NZD $235.10
  • Passport Fee (optional, after citizenship is granted):
    • Adults: NZD $199
    • Children: NZD $115

Where to Get Help

If you need assistance with your application, you can:

  • Visit the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) website: www.dia.govt.nz
  • Call the DIA Citizenship Office: 0800 22 51 51 (within New Zealand) or +64 4 462 0651 (from overseas).
  • Seek advice from an immigration adviser or lawyer registered with the New Zealand Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA).

By following this guide, you should have a clear understanding of the process and requirements for applying for New Zealand citizenship. Best of luck with your application!