NZ Citizenship articles

You need 15 correct answers — 75% — to pass the citizenship knowledge test.

From late 2027, most new citizenship applicants will sit an in-person knowledge test — 20 questions, 75% pass mark.

New residents often import assumptions from former countries — study NZ-specific institutions and Te Tiriti carefully.

Permanent residency allows living and working indefinitely; citizenship adds passport eligibility and full civic participation — plus the new test.

If you are eligible now, understand whether applying before the test mandate avoids the new requirement.

Understand how laws are made, who represents you, and the difference between central and local government.

Applicants get up to six attempts — three initial attempts, then a waiting period, then three more.

Study topics span democratic institutions, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, voting, travel documents, and lawful behaviour.

Citizens and residents have different enrolment rules — know who may vote and how general elections work in MMP.