People applying for citizenship by grant will need to pass an in-person, multiple-choice test from late 2027, the Government says.

Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden said the test is intended to ensure applicants understand the responsibilities and privileges that come with citizenship, a requirement already in the Citizenship Act. “Citizenship is a commitment to our shared responsibilities and privileges,” she said. “People seeking citizenship should understand New Zealanders believe in certain rights, like freedom of speech, or that no one person or group is above the law.”

Applicants will need to get 75% of questions correct to pass. Topics will include the Bill of Rights Act, human rights, certain criminal offences, voting rights, democratic principles, the structure of government, and rules around travel to and from the country.

The Department of Internal Affairs will produce guidance and other resources ahead of implementation, and is working on the process so the test is in place and required for applications lodged in the second half of 2027.

Currently, applicants meet the knowledge requirement by signing a declaration that they understand the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship.

Citizenship by grant is one of three pathways, alongside by birth and by descent. It applies to people born outside the country who meet presence and other requirements.

The announcement moves New Zealand toward the approach taken in several comparable countries that use knowledge tests as part of citizenship, including Australia and the United Kingdom.

Key details are still to come, including how and where the in-person tests will be offered, what languages and support will be available, whether there will be exemptions (for example, on age or grounds of disability), fees, and retake rules. The Department has signalled more information and preparation materials will be provided before the test goes live.

More information on citizenship requirements is available at govt.nz/browse/passports-citizenship-and-identity/nz-citizenship/requirements-for-nz-citizenship/.