New Zealand to require citizenship test for immigrants from 2027

New Zealand will introduce a citizenship test for migrants from the second half of 2027, requiring applicants to demonstrate knowledge of the country’s laws, democratic system and rights before becoming citizens.

The new test will be conducted in person and include 20 multiple-choice questions in English. Applicants will need to answer at least 15 questions correctly to pass.

According to the government, the test will cover subjects including the Bill of Rights Act, human rights, voting rights, democratic principles, the structure of government, certain criminal offences and rules related to travel to and from New Zealand.

Test to replace current declaration system

At present, citizenship applicants are only required to sign a declaration stating that they understand the responsibilities and privileges of being a New Zealand citizen.

Brooke van Velden said the new system is aimed at ensuring migrants understand the country’s core principles before receiving citizenship.

“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,” van Velden said in a statement.

“This test ensures people have sufficient knowledge of their responsibilities and privileges before receiving citizenship by grant.”

The Department of Internal Affairs is currently working on further details of the citizenship test before it is formally introduced.