How to Apply for NZ Citizenship
Introduction: Overview of New Zealand Citizenship and the Benefits of Becoming a Citizen
New Zealand is an incredibly beautiful country, with stunning landscapes and friendly people. It's no wonder that many people look to become citizens of this nation. Becoming a New Zealand citizen offers many benefits, including eligibility for certain jobs and greater travel opportunities through the New Zealand passport. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about applying for New Zealand citizenship including the eligibility criteria, the application process, pathways and more.
Types of Citizenship
There are three ways to obtain New Zealand Citizenship, these are:
Citizenship by Birth:
To be a citizen by birth, you would have to be born in New Zealand before 1 January 2006. If you were born in New Zealand on or after 1 January 2006 you are a citizen by birth if one of your parents was a New Zealand citizen or had a visa which allowed them to live in New Zealand permanently.
Citizenship by Descent:
To be a citizen by descent, you may be eligible if you were born overseas and at least one of your parents is a New Zealand citizen by birth or by grant when you were born.+
Citizenship by Grant:
To be eligible for citizenship by grant, you were born outside of New Zealand or born in New Zealand on or after 1 January 2006 to parents that were not New Zealand citizens or residents at the time of birth.
Eligibility Requirements for Applying for New Zealand Citizenship
To be eligible for NZ citizenship, applicants must meet certain criteria. These eligibility criteria are:
- You must be a permanent resident of New Zealand or have held a residence visa for at least five years.
- You must have been physically present in New Zealand for at least 1350 days during the five years prior to your application.
- You must have spent 240 days of each of those five years in New Zealand.
- You must demonstrate that you are of good character.
- Have had no criminal convictions in the last 5 years.
- You must demonstrate that you have an adequate knowledge of English.
- You must demonstrate that you intend to continue to live in New Zealand or maintain a close and continuing association with the country.
There is an eligibility exception for children aged 15 years where they do not have to be present in New Zealand for at least 1,350 days if their parent meets this requirement.
Children aged 13 years and under are exceptions to the character requirement.
It is important to note that any time spent in New Zealand before residency does not count towards the 1350-day presence requirement.
What Happens if You Don’t Meet One of the Citizenship Eligibility Criteria?
If you do not meet the New Zealand citizenship eligibility criteria listed above, it can be very difficult to obtain citizenship.
In cases where you do not meet the requirements, this will need to be explained in your application which will be assessed by a case officer. Further information may be requested from you and processing times for your application may be extended. The case officer will provide a recommendation to the Minister of Internal Affairs who gives the final decision for your case.
If you do not meet one of the eligibility criteria, it is recommended to contact a licensed immigration adviser to discuss your current circumstances and whether your application will be successful.
Malcolm Pacific NZ Immigration advisers are experts in New Zealand immigration law and Citizenship Applications, call us today for a free consultation.
Visa Pathways that Lead to Citizenship in New Zealand:
New Zealand is a country that offers many visa pathways to citizenship, depending on your individual situation. In most cases, you must find a pathway to obtain Residence of New Zealand based on your current circumstances.
There are several visas that lead to residence, examples of these are:
After 5 years of holding a Resident Visa, you may be able to apply for citizenship in New Zealand if you meet the above-mentioned eligibility criteria.
It’s important to note that citizenship application processing times can vary depending on individual circumstances so it’s best to get advice from a licensed Immigration adviser if you need help understanding the New Zealand Immigration process and eligibility requirements.
Malcolm Pacific Immigration are a firm of NZ Immigration Advisers that want to make your dream of living in New Zealand a reality. Our skilled team of professionals have the knowledge and expertise to assist you with all aspects of the immigration process.
If you’re ready to take the next step, contact us today for a free consultation.
Pathways for Australian and Pacific Residents to Become a New Zealand Citizen
Currently, there are no specific citizenship categories specific to Australian residents.
Australian residents would have to apply for citizenship under one of the three New Zealand citizenship categories.
For Samoan residents, you are eligible for the Samoan Citizenship by Grant if you came to New Zealand after 14 September 1982 and hold either of the following:
- a resident permit
- a resident visa
- a New Zealand permanent resident visa
- Australian citizenship or an Australian permanent resident visa.
Under this category, applicants do not have to be in New Zealand for at least 1350 days during the 5-year period prior to your application.
How to Apply for New Zealand Citizenship: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
The first step to applying for New Zealand citizenship is to determine if you are eligible. You must ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria mentioned above before continuing onto Step 2.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Once you have determined that you are eligible, you will need to fill out all the required documents needed to apply for NZ citizenship, most are now available online.
NZ Citizenship application documents include:
- Completed New Zealand Citizenship Application Form
- A completed ‘Declaration by Applicant’ form
- Two recent passport-sized photographs of yourself, taken within the last six months to be used as an identity check.
- Proof of identity, such as a valid passport or birth certificate
- Evidence of your current residence status in New Zealand, such as a resident visa, work visa or student visa
- Evidence that you have been living in New Zealand for the past five years, such as travel records and/or employment records
- Evidence that you are of good character
- Any other supporting documents required by the Department of Internal Affairs
- Police certificates may be required in certain situations where you have spent more than 4 months in any country other than New Zealand since obtaining residency.
- If English is not your primary language, evidence that you can communicate in English to an acceptable standard such as evidence from an English language test or results from an approved English language course.
Step 3: Submit Your Application and Supporting Documents
Once you have gathered all the required documents, you can submit your application and supporting documents to the Department of Internal Affairs. You can do this online or by post. If submitting by post, make sure that all documents are properly authenticated before sending them off.
Step 5: Wait for a Decision from Immigration new zealand
It is time to wait for a decision from Immigration New Zealand. This process can take up to one year depending on the complexity of your case and current processing times at Immigration New Zealand. Once they have made their decision, they will notify you via mail or email with their decision.
The Cost Involved in Applying for New Zealand Citizenship
The standard application fee is $470.20 NZD for adults aged 16 years and over, and $235.10 NZD for children aged 15 and under.
Dual Citizenship
Dual citizenship is where you are a citizen of two different countries at the same time.
You are allowed to have dual citizenship in New Zealand, however other countries may not allow it.
If you are already a citizen of a foreign country, you should check if that country allows dual citizenship before applying for citizenship in New Zealand. Check the other country’s rules first, in some cases you may have to ask for permission.
Do You Need Help with Your NZ Citizenship Application?
Becoming a citizen of New Zealand is an exciting opportunity that comes with many benefits and privileges. To be offered New Zealand citizenship, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and provide necessary documentation.
From this article, the process of applying for New Zealand citizenship should be easier to understand and navigate. If you still have questions regarding your application or if you are not sure if you are eligible, Malcolm Pacific Immigration can help.
Malcolm Pacific Immigration is committed to providing clients with the highest quality of service and immigration expertise. If you are applying for New Zealand Citizenship and require immigration advice, contact Malcolm Pacific Immigration today.
Get started with a FREE consultation today
Our highly experienced licensed Immigration team will take away the stress and worry of navigating the complicated world of New Zealand Immigration. All you need to do is get in touch. Our team is on standby, ready to help.
Get started with a FREE consultation today
Our highly experienced licensed Immigration team will take away the stress and worry of navigating the complicated world of New Zealand Immigration. All you need to do is get in touch. Our employer team is on standby, ready to help.
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Latest Updates
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Migrant Worker Residence
Today the government announced a pathway to residence for migrant workers who are living and working in New Zealand. Applications open on 1 December 2021 for the first wave who are eligible to apply. The second wave can apply from 1 March 2022. The deadline to lodge an application is 31 July 2022 or else they will miss out on this one off opportunity.
Skilled Migrants Opportunity
Today the government announced a pathway to residence for people living and working in New Zealand. Applications open on 1 December 2021 for the first wave eligible to apply. The second wave can apply from 1 March 2022. The deadline to lodge an application is 31 July 2022 or else you miss the boat.
New Employer Accreditation Process
The government has moved the introduction of the new employer accreditation process across to mid-2022. At the same time, the Minister of Immigration announced new work visa rules for migrant workers who are already in New Zealand and working full time.
Skilled Migrant Changes
The government has increased the median wage to $27 per hour from 19 July. Any Skilled Migrant residence application lodged after this date will need to include a skilled job offer that pays at least $27 per hour. For some lower-skilled occupations, the minimum pay rate increases to $40.50 per hour.
Work Visa Rules
From 19 July 2021
- The median wage used to assess Essential Skills Work Visa applications increases from $25.50 per hour to $27 per hour.
- Applicants paid below the median wage may be granted a work visa for up to 24 months. The usual 6-month visa validity restriction is suspended until mid-2022.
- In certain cases, the labour market test is waived and in some cases, it will still apply.
Work Visa Rules
From 30 June 2021
- Employer Accreditation and Approval in Principle applications are now closed.
- No new Employer Accreditation applications (including renewals) will be accepted until the new process goes live in mid-2022.
Employer Accreditation Becomes Mandatory
Employers of migrant workers must become accredited from 1 November 2021 before work visa applications can be processed. Most employers are not accredited. Those that are accredited will have to roll into the new system when it goes live in late September.
Work Visa Rules
From mid-2020 (delayed)
- Government to negotiate and introduce Industry Sector agreements setting minimum conditions for industries that heavily rely on overseas workers. Sectors include; residential care, meat processing, dairy, forestry, road freight transport, tourism, and hospitality. Construction, horticulture, and viticulture may also be included.
Skilled Migrant Changes
Skilled occupation "Dairy Cattle Farmer" spilt into three occupations. New occupations are: "Dairy Farm Manager", "Assistant Dairy Farm Manager" and "Dairy Herd Manager". Each sit at different skill levels, therefore, the award of points will depend on pay rates, job tasks and other requirements.
Work Visa Rules
From 15 February 2021
- Dairy Cattle Farmer job offers are now assessed by three new occupation descriptions: Dairy Farm Manager, Assistant Dairy Farm Manager and Dairy Herd Manager. Pay rates and job tasks will determine how long a work visa is valid. Take advice.
Skilled Migrant Changes
The government has deferred the fortnightly selection of Expressions of Interest from the Skilled Migrant pool for six months (to be reviewed in April 2021). Invitations to Apply for Residence remain suspended. The last selection from the Skilled Migrant pool took place on 18/03/2020.
Work Visa Rules
From 7 October 2020
- Introduction of "Oversupply" and "Undersupply" occupation lists used to assess Essential Skills Work Visa applications when a job offer pays less than the median wage.
- Employers offering jobs to migrant workers where an occupation is on the "Oversupply" list will not get Skill Match reports issued by Work & Income. Solid evidence of genuine attempts to find a local to fill the job will be critical for approval.
Skilled Migrant Changes
The government added four new occupations that are now regarded as skilled employment and may qualify for job offer points under the Skilled Migrant Category. These are:
Aged or disabled carer, Bicycle mechanic, Driller and Nursing Support worker.
Work Visa Rules
From 27 July 2020
- Essential Skills work visa applications are now assessed based on the current median wage (NZD $25.50 or more per hour.).
- Job offers paying below the median wage require employers to pass the labour market test* and secure a Skills Match Reports from WINZ (work visas granted for a maximum of 6 months).
Skilled Migrant Changes
Anyone invited by Immigration NZ to apply for residence under the Skilled Migrant Category where their invitation is dated between 1 November 2019 and 15 April 2020 (inclusive) has now been granted an additional six months to lodge their residence application.
Work Visa Rules
From 27 May 2020
- Regional Skill Shortage List goes live. 15 regions around New Zealand list occupations reflecting local skill shortages in each region. The labour market test is not mandatory provided the job offer matches the occupation and region plus the visa applicant has qualifications and/or work experience set out on the list.
Skilled Migrant Changes
The government has deferred the fortnightly selection of Expressions of Interest from the Skilled Migrant pool. This means Invitations to Apply for Residence are also suspended. Malcolm Pacific Immigration does not anticipate selections to resume until after the general election held on 17 October 2020.
Skilled Migrant Changes
Immigration NZ is now prioritising Skilled Migrant Residence applications where the main (principal) applicant meets the criteria:
- Has employment paying double the median wage which is currently NZD $51 per hour OR NZD $106,800 per annum; OR Has New Zealand occupational registration and is required to hold valid registration to lawfully carry out their job.
Work Visa Rules
From 24 February 2020
- Wage or salary thresholds increase for Essential Skills Work Visas applications lodged on or after 24/02/2020 (labour market tested; read more here).
- Higher Skilled employment increases to $38.25 or more per hour ($79,560 per annum*)
- Mid Skilled Employment increases to $21.68 or more per hour ($45,094 per annum*)
Work Visa Rules
From 7 October 2019
- Base salary to qualify for a Work to Residence Visa (WTR) supported by an accredited employer increases from $55,000 per annum to $79,560 per annum (or $38.25 per hour).
- Pay rates for WTR visas are now reviewed annually.
- Work visa applicants paid less than $79,560 per annum by accredited employers need to apply under other work visa categories.
Skilled Migrant Changes
The government recently added more occupations that are now to be regarded as skilled employment and may qualify for job offer points under the Skilled Migrant Category. In order to qualify for points, the job must be paying at least the current median wage (or higher for certain occupations) at the time the residence application is lodged.
Work Visa Rules
From 1 November 2021
- Work to Residence Visa (Accredited Employer and Long Term Skill Shortage) applications close.
- Applications lodged on or before 31 October 2021 will be processed under current visa settings.
Mandatory Vaccination Required for Travel
From 1 November 2021 anyone who is not a NZ citizen must be fully vaccinated (unless exempt) before travelling to New Zealand. Fully vaccinated means your last dose of vaccine was given at least 14 days before travelling and it was an approved vaccine.
Employer Accreditation
Applications for employer accreditation closed at the end of June 2021. Applications lodged before the closure date are still being processed. New applications for accreditation open on 9 May 2022. The process will be quite different to what employers have experienced in the past. Businesses will need to meet minimum standards.
2021 Resident Visa
Wednesday, 1 December is fast approaching and it is estimated that around 16,000 individuals and families can apply in the first wave for the 2021 Resident Visa opening next month. It is exciting for the thousands of people who have been waiting patiently to become residents that finally the finish line is in sight.
2021 Resident Visa
The first wave of applicants can apply from 1 December 2021. Around 16,000 applications are expected in this first wave. The second wave opens on 1 March 2022. In total, the government expects approximately 110,000 applications that will include about 165,000 people.
2021 Resident Visa
The second group of workers who can apply online for the 2021 Resident Visa that opens on 1 March 2022 are those who hold an eligible work visa and either meet "Settled", "Skilled" or "Scarce" as set out above. In total Immigration NZ estimate around 110,000 people will qualify to apply for this visa.
2021 Resident Visa
The first group of workers who can apply online for the 2021 Resident Visa that opens on 1 December 2021 are those that on 29/09/2021:
- Had lodged a residence application under the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) or Residence from Work category; OR Had lodged an SMC Expression of Interest (EOI) in the SMC pool that included at least one dependent child aged 17 or above.
2021 Resident Visa
Is this the only requirement to qualify for residence? No. In addition to the eligible work visa criteria workers also need to be regarded as one of the following:
- Settled.
- Skilled.
- Scarce.
2021 Resident Visa
People who were lawfully in NZ (or in Australia when the travel bubble closed between April and July 2021) on 29/09/2021 need to meet the visa eligibility criteria:
- Workers in NZ who held an eligible work visa on or before 29/9/2021 and on the day they apply for residence; OR Applied for an eligible work visa on or before 29/9/2021 and the work visa application is subsequently approved and still hold an eligible work visa on the day they apply for residence.
2021 Resident Visa
The government has introduced a limited pathway to residence for people who are already living and working in New Zealand. Applications open on 1 December 2021 for the first wave of people eligible to apply. The second wave opens on 1 March 2022. The deadline to apply for the 2021 Resident Visa is 31 July 2022.
Critical Purpose Visitor Visas
A small number of critical health workers (taking up jobs for six months or longer) or specialist workers (taking up jobs that are for longer than six months) who were granted border exemptions may also have eligibility for the 2021 Resident Visa. They will need to have arrived in NZ and lodge a 2021 Resident Visa application.
Policy Decision Key Dates in 2022
- July 4. Applications open for the new Accredited Employer Work Visa.
- July 31. Applications for the 2021 Resident Visa close.
- August. Skilled Migrant Residence category scheduled to reopen.
- August. A new pathway to residence for people earning 200% or more of the median wage.
*Excludes high-risk countries.
Policy Decision Key Dates in 2022
- February 13. Fully vaccinated Kiwis plus certain other travellers entering NZ from the rest of the world* can skip MIQ.
- April 30. The border starts a phased reopen to fully vaccinated foreign nationals.
- April 30. The Productivity Commission reports back to the government on immigration settings.
- May 9. Applications open for mandatory Employer Accreditation.
*Excludes high-risk countries.
Work Visa Categories Closing
The work visa categories set to close are:
- Essential Skills Work Visa
- Essential Skills Work Visa – approval in principle
- Work to Residence (Talent – Accredited Employer)
- Work to Residence (Long Term Skills Shortage)
- Silver Fern Job Search Work Visa (closed October 2019)
- Silver Fern Practical Experience Work Visa.
The Green List
In order to address labour shortages in New Zealand's crucial industries the NZ government has implemented a "Green List" of sought-after high-skill occupations. This list offers a prioritised pathway to residency.
There are qualification and/or occupational registration requirements to meet. Occupations are broken down into two tiers:
- Tier 1 - direct pathway to residence
- Tier 2 - requires a period of two years or longer before applying
The recent additions in May 2023 across many sectors can be found here