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NZ citizenship guide

NZ citizenship application document checklist

A practical checklist of identity documents, photos, referee details and application items commonly required for New Zealand citizenship.

Citizenship document requirements depend on how you apply and on your personal history. Use the current Government checklist immediately before applying, because forms, fees and identity processes can change.

For an online application

The official application page currently tells applicants to prepare:

  • a RealMe login;
  • a device with internet access and a camera for the identity check;
  • an eligible identity referee;
  • digital copies of the required photo and documents; and
  • a credit or debit card for the application fee.

Core identity records

Applicants commonly need a full birth certificate or birth record, a current or most recent passport or travel document, and a recent photograph that meets the citizenship photo rules. Do not assume a passport alone replaces every other record.

Extra documents may be required

Prepare evidence for any difference between your documents and current identity details. Examples can include name-change records, marriage or civil-union documents, adoption records, translations, English-language evidence or information about visa conditions.

Referee or witness

Online applicants use an identity referee. Paper or in-person applications use a witness. Read the eligibility and relationship rules carefully before choosing someone. A referee who does not meet the requirements can cause delay.

Before pressing submit

  • Check names, dates and passport numbers character by character.
  • Confirm that your travel and residence information matches official records.
  • Use a recent compliant photo rather than a cropped social-media image.
  • Keep a copy of everything submitted.
  • Make sure the passport or travel document remains valid for any necessary travel while the citizenship application is processed.

This website does not accept document uploads. Use only the official application channel.

Try your dates

See the five-year look-back

Use the calculator to estimate the first date that appears to meet the standard numerical presence test.

Check your eligibility

Official sources

Independent information: This guide is not legal or immigration advice and is not an official DIA assessment. Check current government information before applying.

Use it like an app

Add NZ Citizenship Check to your phone

Keep the calculator one tap away from your Home Screen. No App Store or Google Play download is required. Installation adapts to the browser and device you are using.

Installs as a web app with its own Home Screen icon and standalone window.

Android

Install from your browser

  1. Open your browser menu.
  2. Look for Install app, Install or Add to Home screen.
  3. If no install option is available, open this page in Chrome, Firefox or Samsung Internet and try again.

Install wording varies between Android browsers.