The NZ citizenship ceremony
What to expect from application approval to taking the oath
Overview
After your citizenship application is approved by the Department of Internal Affairs, you must attend a citizenship ceremony to formally become a New Zealand citizen. You are not a citizen until you have taken the oath or affirmation at a ceremony.
Timeline: After approval, you will typically be invited to a ceremony within 3 months, though this can vary depending on your location and ceremony availability.
After your application is approved
Approval letter
DIA sends you a letter confirming your citizenship has been approved.
Ceremony allocation
Your local council or DIA will contact you with ceremony details.
Choose a ceremony
In some areas you can choose from available dates. In others, you are assigned one.
Attend the ceremony
You must attend in person. The ceremony cannot be done online or by proxy.
What happens on ceremony day
Ceremonies are typically held at local council chambers, community halls, or sometimes at significant venues like the Beehive in Wellington. They are usually 30-60 minutes long.
Arrive early
Get there 15-30 minutes before the scheduled time. You'll need to sign in and be seated.
Bring guests
Family and friends are welcome. Some ceremonies allow 2-4 guests per person, others more. Check your invitation.
Dress code
Smart casual to formal. Many people wear cultural dress from their home country. There is no strict requirement.
Bring ID
Bring your passport or another form of photo identification.
Photography
Photos are usually allowed and encouraged. Some ceremonies have an official photographer.
The oath or affirmation
You can choose to take either an oath (religious) or an affirmation (non-religious). Both have the same legal effect.
Oath of allegiance
“I [name] swear that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles the Third, His heirs and successors according to law, and that I will faithfully observe the laws of New Zealand and fulfil my duties as a New Zealand citizen. So help me God.”
Affirmation of allegiance
“I [name] solemnly and sincerely affirm that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles the Third, His heirs and successors according to law, and that I will faithfully observe the laws of New Zealand and fulfil my duties as a New Zealand citizen.”
After the ceremony
Congratulations — you are now a New Zealand citizen! Here's what happens next:
- •You receive your citizenship certificate at the ceremony or shortly after by post
- •You can now apply for a New Zealand passport
- •You can enrol to vote in NZ elections
- •You can access NZ consular assistance overseas
- •Your citizenship is permanent — it does not expire (except in rare cases of fraud)
- •If required by your home country, you may need to notify them of your new citizenship
Common questions
Can I travel after approval but before the ceremony?
Yes, but be careful. If you leave NZ for an extended period, it could affect your ability to attend the ceremony. DIA may also reassess your presence if there's a significant gap.
What if I can't attend the scheduled ceremony?
Contact your local council or DIA as soon as possible. You can usually be rescheduled to a later ceremony.
Can children attend the ceremony?
Children included in your application will be made citizens at the same ceremony. Children under 14 do not need to take the oath.
How long after the ceremony can I apply for a passport?
Immediately. You can apply for your NZ passport as soon as you have your citizenship certificate.