How to change your New Zealand citizenship status

New Zealand allows its citizens to hold more than one nationality, but also outlines conditions under which individuals may choose to give up their citizenship or, in rare cases, have it taken away by the government. The rules form part of the country’s citizenship framework and apply to those seeking to change their citizenship status.

A person’s citizenship status may change if they apply for nationality in another country, decide to renounce New Zealand citizenship, or face action from authorities that leads to loss of citizenship.

Dual citizenship allowed, but depends on other countries

New Zealand permits dual or multiple citizenship. This means individuals can legally hold New Zealand citizenship alongside that of another country.


However, authorities note that not all countries allow dual citizenship. In such cases, individuals applying for citizenship in another country may be required to give up their New Zealand citizenship as part of that process.

This makes it important for applicants to check the rules of the other country before proceeding, as requirements may vary.

Giving up New Zealand citizenship

Individuals may choose to renounce their New Zealand citizenship if they are acquiring citizenship in a country that does not allow dual nationality.

In such situations, giving up New Zealand citizenship may become a necessary step to complete the process of becoming a citizen of that country.

Once citizenship is given up, individuals lose the rights associated with it. This includes the ability to use a New Zealand passport and other entitlements linked to citizenship.

Government can revoke citizenship in rare cases

In limited circumstances, the New Zealand government has the authority to remove a person’s citizenship. This power rests with the Minister of Internal Affairs.

If citizenship is taken away, the individual will no longer be able to use a New Zealand passport. They may also lose the right to live in New Zealand.

Authorities describe such cases as rare, and the action is taken under specific conditions defined within the legal framework.