New Zealand will introduce a citizenship test from late 2027 for most people applying for citizenship by grant, according to information published by the New Zealand government. The new test will assess whether applicants understand the responsibilities and privileges that come with becoming a New Zealand citizen.

The government said people who have already applied for citizenship, or those who apply before the test becomes mandatory in 2027, will not need to take the test.

Why is New Zealand introducing the test?

Currently, citizenship applicants show their understanding of citizenship responsibilities by signing a declaration during the application process. The new test changes the method of assessment but does not change the citizenship requirement itself.

The government said the test will focus on applicants’ understanding of civic responsibilities, democratic principles and rights linked to New Zealand citizenship.

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What topics will the citizenship test cover?

According to the government, the test will include questions on:

• the Bill of Rights Act
• human rights
• voting rights and democratic principles
• New Zealand’s system of government
• some criminal offences
• travelling overseas on a New Zealand passport

The Department of Internal Affairs will provide study material before the test becomes mandatory.

How will the test work?

The citizenship test will be conducted in person and will contain 20 multiple-choice questions in English. Applicants must answer at least 15 questions correctly, or score 75%, to pass.

Authorities said test locations are expected to be available across New Zealand and not limited to major cities.

There will likely be a separate fee for taking the test in addition to the citizenship application fee. The government has not yet announced the amount.

What happens if an applicant fails?

Applicants who do not pass on the first attempt can retake the test. After three unsuccessful attempts, they must wait at least 30 working days before trying again.

Applicants will be allowed a maximum of six attempts. Those who do not pass after six attempts may be given options including withdrawing their application and receiving a partial refund of the citizenship application fee.

Who will be exempt from the citizenship test?

The government said several categories of applicants will not need to sit the test. These include:

• children under 16 years
• applicants aged 65 years or older
• people granted a waiver for the English language requirement
• applicants with severe medical conditions
• individuals not of full capacity
• people with exceptional personal circumstances preventing them from completing the test
• New Zealand citizens by descent applying for citizenship by grant
• eligible applicants applying from overseas, including some residents of Niue, the Cook Islands and Tokelau

What applicants should know before applying

The government advised prospective applicants to ensure they meet all citizenship requirements before submitting an application. It warned that unsuccessful applications may not receive a full refund and future reapplications could require taking the citizenship test once the rule comes into effect.