Documents needed for NZ citizenship
Everything you need to prepare for your citizenship application
Identity documents
You must prove your identity with original documents or certified copies.
| Document | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Current passport | Yes | Original or certified copy of bio page |
| Birth certificate | Yes | Original with English translation if needed |
| NZ residence visa | Yes | Evidence of your current visa status |
| Name change documents | If applicable | Marriage certificate, deed poll, etc. |
| Previous passports | Recommended | To verify travel history |
Travel records
You need to provide a complete record of every trip outside New Zealand during the 5-year qualifying period. This is one of the most important parts of your application.
- •Complete list of all departures from and arrivals to NZ
- •Destination country for each trip
- •Purpose of travel (holiday, work, family, etc.)
- •You may request your official travel movements from Immigration NZ
How to request travel records: Email Immigration NZ or submit a request through their online portal. Allow 20 working days for processing. This is a free service and gives you the official record DIA will use to verify your presence.
Character requirements
DIA assesses your character as part of the application. You must be of “good character” to be granted citizenship.
- •NZ Police clearance (DIA obtains this — you don't need to apply separately)
- •Overseas police clearance if you've lived in another country for 12+ months during the last 5 years
- •Declare any criminal convictions, including overseas ones
- •Declare any pending charges or court proceedings
- •Bankruptcy history must be disclosed
Note: Having a minor traffic offence (e.g. speeding fine) will generally not prevent citizenship. However, serious offences or imprisonment within the last 3-7 years may result in refusal.
Language requirements
You must be able to converse in English (or Māori) on everyday topics. This is assessed during a brief interview or conversation, not a formal test.
The standard is basic conversational ability — you don't need to be fluent. If you've been living and working in NZ for 5 years, you will almost certainly meet this requirement.
Photos and forms
- •Two recent passport-sized photos (NZ passport photo specifications)
- •Completed citizenship application form (available from DIA website)
- •Statutory declaration signed by a person who has known you for at least 12 months
- •The referee must be an NZ citizen or permanent resident
Application fees
| Application type | Fee (NZD) |
|---|---|
| Adult (16 and over) | $470.20 |
| Child (under 16, included with parent) | $235.10 |
| Child (under 16, separate application) | $470.20 |
Fees are subject to change. Check the DIA website for current fees.
Preparation tips
Start gathering documents now
Don't wait until you're eligible. Birth certificate translations, police clearances from overseas, and travel records all take time.
Request travel movements early
Contact Immigration NZ at least 2 months before you plan to apply. Processing takes 20 working days.
Get translations done
Any documents not in English must be translated by a qualified translator. NAATI-accredited translators are accepted.
Keep certified copies
Make certified copies of everything before submitting. DIA may take weeks to process and you may need originals for other purposes.