Apply for NZ Citizenship & Passport

Citizenship represents a distinct status granted to permanent residents after they have lived in New Zealand for a set number of years. We can help you navigate the process of getting NZ citizenship and passport by providing all information on eligibility criteria, the application process, pathways and more.

Contact us today and learn how we can help you with acquiring New Zealand citizenship and passports.

Different Types Of NZ Citizenship

Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and hospitable populace, New Zealand stands as an exceptionally captivating nation, and many people aspire to embrace its citizenship. Becoming a New Zealand citizen brings forth an array of advantages, including more job opportunities and a chance to travel to different countries on the New Zealand passport.

NZ Citizenship & Passport

If you want to apply for New Zealand citizenship, you must know the five main types – citizenship by birth, by descent, by grant, by adoption, and dual citizenship. The particular form of citizenship you can attain depends on your unique circumstances.

It’s worth noting that for migrants, the avenue of citizenship by grant is the only pathway.

  • NZ Citizenship By Birth – If your date of birth is 1st January 2006 or before, then you automatically hold New Zealand citizenship.
  • Citizenship By Grant – If you were born in New Zealand on or after 1 January 2006, you could potentially qualify for citizenship by grant if at least one of your parents held a New Zealand citizenship or permanent residence visa during your birth. If citizenship is granted, your children born in New Zealand will automatically inherit New Zealand citizenship.
  • Citizenship By Descent – You can attain a New Zealand citizenship if you are born abroad but at least one of your parents is a New Zealand citizen by birth. Additionally, if either your parents hold NZ citizenship by descent. Otherwise, you would be left without a nationality. Once you become a citizen, your children born in New Zealand will automatically be granted citizenship. However, You cannot pass citizenship to children born outside of New Zealand. They must apply for New Zealand citizenship through the grant process.
  • NZ Citizenship by Adoption – If you are a legally adopted child of a New Zealand citizen parent then you are also a New Zealand citizen.
  • Dual Citizenship – New Zealand permits dual citizenship or multiple citizenship if the other country has the same rule. For instance, if you hold Australian citizenship and seek to pursue New Zealand citizenship, there’s a possibility of relinquishing your Australian citizenship. In such scenarios, prior to applying for NZ citizenship, secure authorisation from the Australian authorities so that you can maintain your citizenship status in both countries.

It’s important to note that the citizenship process and requirements may change over time, so it’s advisable to consult us for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

NZ Citizenship Application Requirements

To apply for NZ citizenship, you must meet the following NZ citizenship application requirements:

  • You should be a permanent resident of New Zealand or hold a residence visa for a minimum of five years.
  • You must have spent 240 days each year In New Zealand and a minimum of 1350 days over those five years leading up to your application.
  • Demonstrate good character with no criminal convictions in the last 5 years.
  • Exhibit adequate knowledge of English.
  • Intend to either continue living in New Zealand or maintain a close association with the country.

Eligibility exceptions:

  • Children aged 15 years need not to be in New Zealand for 1,350 days if their parents meet this requirement.
  • Children aged 13 and under are exempt from the character requirement.

Keep in mind that the time you spent in NZ on visitor visa or before getting a resident visa doesn’t count in the requirement of being present in New Zealand for 1350 days.

Documents Required For NZ Citizenship Application

To apply for New Zealand Citizenship, you need to provide the following documents:

  • Completed NZ citizenship application form and declaration by applicant form
  • For identity check, you must provide two passport-sized photographs taken within the last six months.
  • A valid passport or birth certificate as a proof of identity.
  • A copy of your resident visa, work visa or student visa as evidence of your current residence status in the country.
  • Travel and employment records as evidence that you have been living in New Zealand for the past five years.
  • Character clearance or police certificates if you’ve spent over 4 months in a country other than New Zealand since gaining residency.
  • If English is not your primary language, you must provide an English language certificate as evidence that you can communicate in English to an acceptable standard.

Getting A New Zealand Passport

Acquiring New Zealand citizenship does not automatically grant you a New Zealand passport. You must apply for a passport after receiving your citizenship certificate.

‍Presently, the New Zealand passport holds the 6th position in the global passport rankings as per the Passport Ranking Index Guide. This passport remains valid for a duration of 10 years. Holders of the New Zealand passport enjoy visa-free travel to 186 countries, while 24 countries worldwide require a visa for entry. At various entry points, the New Zealand passport serves as the exclusive recognised confirmation of your New Zealand citizenship.

Contact us today to discuss your requirements regarding the perks of NZ citizenship. Our Immigration advisers will further guide you with the next steps after reviewing your current situation.

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