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New Zealand will introduce a citizenship test for migrants from the second half of 2027 as part of changes to the country’s naturalisation process.
According to a report by the Economic Times on Sunday, migrants applying for citizenship by grant will be required to complete a 20-question multiple-choice examination in English under the new system.
Applicants will need to answer at least 15 questions correctly to pass the test, which will assess knowledge of New Zealand’s legal system, democratic institutions and civic responsibilities.
The proposed examination will include questions on the Bill of Rights Act, human rights, voting rights, democratic principles, the structure of government, selected criminal offences, and regulations governing entry into and exit from the country.
Currently, citizenship applicants are only required to sign a declaration confirming they understand the rights and responsibilities attached to citizenship. Officials said the new test is intended to formally assess that understanding through measurable civic knowledge.
Brooke van Velden, New Zealand’s Minister of Internal Affairs, said the reform is designed to ensure that prospective citizens understand the country’s democratic values and legal principles.
She said the government believes people seeking citizenship should understand fundamental national values, including freedom of speech and the principle that no individual or group is above the law.
“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,” Velden said.
Van Velden also said the test is intended to confirm that applicants possess sufficient understanding of the responsibilities and privileges associated with citizenship before it is granted.
The New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs is currently finalising the structure of the examination, including study materials and administrative procedures, ahead of the planned rollout in 2027.
Officials said the changes will strengthen civic integration and ensure citizenship requirements are backed by a clearer demonstration of knowledge about New Zealand’s democratic system.
