How to apply for NZ citizenship
Step-by-step guide from eligibility check to citizenship ceremony
Overview
Applying for New Zealand citizenship is a structured process managed by the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA). The process involves confirming your eligibility, gathering supporting documents, submitting your application (online or by paper), and attending a citizenship ceremony after approval.
The full process from application to ceremony typically takes 4-9 months. The application fee is NZ$470.20 for adults and $235.10 for children under 16. See our fees and costs guide for a full breakdown.
Step 1: Check your eligibility
Before applying, confirm you meet all the requirements under the Citizenship Act 1977. The main criteria for a grant of citizenship by residence are:
- •You hold a New Zealand Resident Visa or Permanent Resident Visa
- •You have been entitled to reside indefinitely in NZ for at least 5 years
- •You have been physically present in NZ for at least 1,350 days during those 5 years
- •You have been present for at least 240 days in each 12-month period within the 5 years
- •You are of good character
- •You have sufficient knowledge of the English language
- •You intend to continue residing in New Zealand (or in Crown service, or married to/in a civil union or de facto relationship with a NZ citizen in Crown service)
Use our eligibility calculator to check your earliest eligible date based on your visa grant date and travel history.
Step 2: Gather your documents
Prepare the following documents before starting your application. Having everything ready will help you submit a complete application and avoid delays.
Identity documents
Current passport, birth certificate, and any name change certificates. These must be certified copies.
Passport-style photos
Two recent photos meeting DIA specifications. Available from pharmacies and photo shops for $15-$25.
Travel history
A record of all travel in and out of NZ during the 5-year qualifying period. Request your travel movements from Immigration NZ (free, takes 20 working days).
Evidence of residence
Your visa label or eVisa showing your current residence class visa.
Police certificates (if applicable)
Required if you have lived in another country for 12 months or more since turning 17. Obtain from the relevant country's police authority.
Translations (if applicable)
Any documents not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation from a qualified translator.
Step 3: Apply online through DIA
The recommended method is to apply online through the DIA website. Online applications are generally processed faster than paper applications.
- •Go to the Department of Internal Affairs citizenship page at www.dia.govt.nz
- •Create a RealMe account if you do not already have one
- •Log in and start a new citizenship application
- •Fill in all sections: personal details, visa information, travel history, and character declaration
- •Upload scanned copies of your supporting documents
- •Pay the application fee by credit or debit card
- •Submit the application and save your reference number
Tip: Complete the travel history section carefully. Use your INZ travel movements record to ensure the dates are accurate. Discrepancies between your declared travel and official records are a common cause of delays.
Step 4: Wait for the decision
After submission, your application enters the DIA processing queue. Current processing times are approximately 3-6 months.
Acknowledgement
DIA will confirm receipt of your application within 1-2 weeks.
Assessment
A case officer verifies your identity, checks your travel history against official records, and conducts character and police checks.
Additional information requests
DIA may contact you if they need further documents or clarification. Respond promptly to avoid extending the processing time.
Decision
You will receive a letter or email informing you of the decision. If approved, the letter will include information about your citizenship ceremony.
Step 5: Attend the citizenship ceremony
If your application is approved, you must attend a citizenship ceremony to complete the process. You are not a citizen until you have taken the oath or affirmation of allegiance at the ceremony.
Ceremonies are held regularly by local councils around New Zealand. You will receive an invitation with the date, time, and location. Ceremonies typically occur within 1-3 months of approval.
See our citizenship ceremony guide for details on what to expect, what to bring, and what happens on the day.
Online vs paper application
DIA accepts both online and paper applications. Here is how they compare.
| Feature | Online | Paper |
|---|---|---|
| Processing speed | Generally faster | Slower due to postal handling |
| Payment | Credit/debit card only | Credit card, bank draft, money order |
| Document upload | Scan and upload | Post certified copies |
| Tracking | Online status updates | Contact DIA for updates |
| Requires | RealMe account | Printed form from DIA website |
DIA recommends applying online where possible. The online application process includes validation checks that help you avoid common errors before submission.
After you become a citizen
Once you have attended the ceremony and taken the oath or affirmation, you are a New Zealand citizen. You can then:
- •Apply for a New Zealand passport immediately
- •Vote in New Zealand elections
- •Access New Zealand consular assistance when travelling
- •Live and work in Australia under the Trans-Tasman arrangement
- •Pass NZ citizenship to children born overseas (citizenship by descent)