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NZ citizenship guide

How to replace a lost NZ citizenship certificate

What to do if your New Zealand citizenship certificate is lost, stolen or destroyed and where to find the official replacement process and fee.

If your citizenship certificate has been lost, stolen or destroyed, you can apply for official proof or a replacement through the Department of Internal Affairs.

Use the official proof-of-citizenship service

The current Govt.nz proof page explains the forms, photo and witness requirements for different types of citizenship evidence. The citizenship fees page lists a NZ$134 replacement citizenship certificate fee as of this guide's review date.

Lost or stolen certificates may require a declaration

Follow the current form instructions carefully. Replacement and proof services can require identity evidence and, depending on the request, a statutory declaration about the certificate being lost, stolen or destroyed.

Keep a secure digital reference

After receiving a replacement, store a secure scan for reference, but remember that some organisations may still require the official certificate rather than a copy.

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.

Presence calculatorTravel simulator

Official sources

Independent information: This guide summarises public information and is not legal or immigration advice. Check current official sources before acting on it.

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.