Govt.nz allows citizenship-by-grant applications online, in person or by post. For most people comfortable with digital documents, the online route avoids sending original identity documents through the mail.
What to prepare for the online application
- a RealMe login;
- a device with internet access and a camera;
- an identity referee;
- digital copies of your photo and documents; and
- a credit or debit card.
Your digital documents
Govt.nz says digital copies should be clear, in focus, easy to read, no larger than 10MB and saved in PDF, PNG or JPEG formats. Online applicants upload copies rather than posting original documents.
Identity check
The online application can prompt you to complete an identity check using a camera. Govt.nz describes this identity check as optional, but completing it may mean you do not need an in-person identity verification visit.
When paper or in-person may suit you better
Paper and in-person applications use a witness rather than an online identity referee and require original documents and two printed photos. Some special application types also use specific paper forms.
Use the free tools
Turn the guidance into a practical next step
Check your presence estimate, test a future trip, or work through the application checklist.