Everything you need for your
citizenship journey

An opinion piece exploring whether a multiple-choice test can meaningfully assess civic understanding — and whether it risks reducing complex questions of identity and belonging to simple right/wrong answers.

The Spinoff published a satirical take on the new citizenship test — but also highlights the genuine difficulty of some topics, particularly around NZ history, Te Tiriti, and democratic values.

Permanent residents are rushing to apply for citizenship before the new test requirement takes effect in 2027. RNZ reports long queues and high application volumes following the Government announcement.

RNZ explains the full scope of the new test: 20 multiple-choice questions, 75% pass mark, up to 6 attempts, and an in-person format. Applicants who apply before the test launches will not be required to sit it.

The NZ Government has announced a mandatory 20-question citizenship test from 2027. Applicants must answer 15 of 20 questions correctly to pass. Topics include the Bill of Rights, criminal offences, voting rights, and democratic principles.

1News covers the announcement of the new citizenship test, including topic areas, the pass mark, and what current applicants need to know about the transition timeline.

NZ Herald reports that government documents confirm applicants will receive up to six attempts to pass the new in-person citizenship test before their application must be withdrawn.

Details of the new citizenship test topics: human rights, democratic principles, criminal offences, voting rights, and New Zealand values. The test will be delivered in person, not online.

RNZ asks immigration experts whether the test will achieve its stated goals, with some questioning whether it reflects a genuine concern about civic values or a political response to voter sentiment.

DIA guidance on the good character requirement for citizenship. Criminal convictions, immigration breaches, and tax non-compliance are all considered. Minor historic offences may be disregarded.

Applicants aged 16–64 must provide evidence of English language ability. Accepted tests include IELTS, PTE Academic, OET, and TOEFL iBT. Some applicants qualify for an exemption.

Official DIA guidance on how physical presence days are counted. You must be present for 1,260 days over 5 years and 240 days in each of the last 3 years. Day of departure does not count.