Receiving a decline on your New Zealand citizenship application is disappointing, especially after years of living in the country and meeting what you believed were all the requirements. However, a rejection is not the end of the road. Understanding why your application was declined, what options you have, and how to avoid the same outcome next time can make the difference between a permanent setback and a temporary delay.
Common reasons for rejection
The Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) declines citizenship applications for several reasons. The most common are:
Insufficient presence days
This is the most frequent reason. You need at least 1,350 days physically present in NZ over the 5-year qualifying period, with at least 240 days in each 12-month period. Even being a few days short can result in a decline. Use our calculator to verify your days before applying, and read our guide on counting presence days.
Good character concerns
Criminal convictions, pending charges, or issues with honesty on previous immigration applications can lead to a decline. DIA checks your criminal history in NZ and may require police clearance certificates from other countries you have lived in. For more detail, see our blog post on the good character requirement.
Incomplete or inaccurate documentation
Missing documents, unsigned forms, or inconsistencies between your application and official records can cause delays or declines. Ensure you have all required documents before submitting.
English language insufficiency
If DIA determines you do not have sufficient knowledge of English, your application can be declined. This is less common but can affect applicants who have lived in largely non-English-speaking communities. See our guide on the English requirement.
Intent to reside
DIA requires that you intend to continue residing in New Zealand. If your travel history or application suggests you plan to leave NZ shortly after obtaining citizenship, this can be a ground for decline.
What happens when you receive a decline
DIA will send you a letter explaining the reason for the decline. The letter will outline:
- •The specific ground(s) on which your application was declined
- •Reference to the relevant section of the Citizenship Act 1977
- •Your right to request reconsideration
Read this letter carefully. The reason for the decline will determine your best course of action.
Your options after a decline
Option 1: Request reconsideration
You can write to the Minister of Internal Affairs requesting reconsideration of the decision. This is appropriate when you believe DIA made an error in assessing your application, when there are new facts or circumstances, or when you believe the discretionary aspects of the decision were not properly considered. There is no specific form for this — you write a letter explaining your case.
Option 2: Judicial review
If you believe DIA acted unlawfully or unreasonably in declining your application, you can apply to the High Court for judicial review. This is a legal process and you should seek advice from an immigration lawyer. Judicial review examines the process DIA followed, not the merits of your application directly. It can be costly and time-consuming.
Option 3: Reapply
In many cases, the simplest option is to address the issue and submit a new application. If you were short on presence days, wait until you have accumulated enough. If documents were missing, gather them and reapply. There is no mandatory waiting period between applications, and each application is assessed on its own merits.
Tips to avoid rejection
- •Use our eligibility calculator to verify your presence days before applying
- •Add a buffer of at least 2-4 weeks beyond the minimum to account for any counting discrepancies
- •Disclose everything honestly — undisclosed convictions or travel are worse than the convictions themselves
- •Double-check all documents against the requirements checklist before submitting
- •Ensure your passport stamps and travel records match your declared travel history
- •If you have any criminal history, consider consulting an immigration adviser before applying
- •Make sure your visa status is current and valid at the time of application
Timeline for reconsideration and reapplication
- Reconsideration request:Submit as soon as possible after receiving the decline letter. Processing can take several months.
- Judicial review:Must be filed promptly (usually within 3-6 months of the decision). Takes 6-12+ months.
- New application:No waiting period. Submit when you have addressed the reason for decline. Standard processing times apply (3-6 months).
Frequently asked questions
Can I reapply for NZ citizenship after being rejected?
Yes. There is no restriction on reapplying for NZ citizenship after a decline. You can submit a new application once you have addressed the reason for the original rejection. For example, if you were short on presence days, you can reapply once you have accumulated enough days. You will need to pay the application fee again.
How long does the appeal process take?
A reconsideration request to the Minister of Internal Affairs can take several months. If you escalate to the High Court for judicial review, the process can take 6-12 months or longer. Legal costs for judicial review can be significant, so weigh this option carefully.
Will a minor traffic offence cause my citizenship to be declined?
Minor traffic offences like speeding tickets or parking fines generally do not affect your good character assessment. DIA is looking at more serious offending, such as criminal convictions, fraud, or dishonesty. However, you must disclose all offences honestly on your application.
Can I get a refund if my application is declined?
No. The citizenship application fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome. This is another reason to ensure your application is complete and accurate before submitting.
Ready to find out when you can apply for NZ citizenship? Enter your visa details and travel history into our free calculator.
Check your eligibility date