Citizenship

If you were born outside New Zealand on or after 1 January 1978, and one of your parents was a New Zealand citizen otherwise than by descent at the time of your birth, then you may have a claim to New Zealand citizenship by descent.

Citizenship applications are handled by the Department of Internal Affairs Citizenship office Information on the application process, forms and fees can be found on the Department of Internal Affairs website. Applications can only be processed by the Department of Internal Affairs citizenship offices in London, Sydney or Wellington. Processing turnaround time is 20 working days from date of receipt of a complete application.

An application for a New Zealand passport can be made at the same time as a citizenship application.