New Zealand to Introduce Citizenship Test From 2027

New Zealand will introduce a compulsory citizenship test for migrants applying for naturalization from 2027. Applicants will have to show knowledge of how the state functions, democratic principles and the basic rights and duties of citizens.

The test will be conducted in person and will consist of 20 multiple-choice questions in English. Applicants will have to answer at least 15 correctly to pass. The questions will cover areas including the Bill of Rights, human rights, selected criminal offenses, voting rights, the functioning of government and rules on travel to and from the country.

Home Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden said people applying for citizenship should understand the values on which New Zealand is based, including freedom of expression and the principle that no one is above the law.

Van Velden said the test was intended to ensure that applicants have sufficient knowledge of their rights and obligations before being granted citizenship.

At present, applicants only sign a declaration stating that they understand the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. The Ministry of Internal Affairs is preparing the details of the new system, which is expected to take effect in the second half of 2027.

(reuters, bak)