How to apply for NZ citizenship
Follow these steps when you apply for New Zealand citizenship.
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1
Understand the types of citizenship
There are 3 main types of New Zealand citizenship. The type you can get depends on your situation.
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2
Check you meet the requirements
Use the self-check tool to find out if you are eligible for New Zealand citizenship.
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3
Get your documents ready
When you apply for New Zealand citizenship by grant, you need to provide documents to prove your identity, such as:
- your birth certificate or birth record
- your passport or travel document.
Depending on your situation, you may need to provide additional documents.
You also need to get an identity referee or witness to support your application.
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4
Apply and pay
You can apply online, in person, or by post.
Applying for citizenship by grant costs:
- $470.20 for adults aged 16 and over
- $235.10 for children aged 15 and under.
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5
Wait to find out if your application is approved
It takes 3 to 14 months to find out if your application to become a New Zealand citizen has been approved.
After you apply for NZ citizenship
To check the progress of your application, click on the link below. Select 'Continue saved application', then log in using RealMe.
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6
Attend a ceremony
Once your New Zealand citizenship is approved, you need to attend a citizenship ceremony.
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7
Get your NZ passport
You need New Zealand citizenship to apply for a passport.
Once you are a citizen, you can apply for your New Zealand passport. This is a separate process.
Who to contact for more help
If you need more help or have questions about the information or services on this page, contact the following agency.
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Citizenship office
Contact and agency details
Utility links and page information
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