Language requirements

You need to be able to hold a basic conversation in English to get New Zealand citizenship.

Note

If you are from Samoa or applying for a child, you might not have to meet all the language requirements.

Requirements if you are from Samoa

Requirements if you are a child

If English is not your first language

You must include something with your application that proves you can speak English.

Accepted documents:

  • School certificate
  • School report
  • International English Language Testing System (IELTS) form
  • Employer reference letter
  • University academic record
  • University certificate – bachelor’s, diploma, master’s, PhD

If a case officer has any questions about your English, they might ask you to come in for an interview.

At the interview, if the case officer does not think your English is good enough, they will tell you what you can do next.

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.

Utility links and page information

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