NZCitizenshipApplications
New Zealand citizenship by grant, citizenship by descent, and passport applications - eligibility advice and full application support.
How we can help
Obtaining New Zealand citizenship is a significant milestone that provides the right to vote, hold a New Zealand passport, and access the full benefits of permanent membership in the New Zealand community. Citizenship by grant is available to permanent residents who have been physically present in New Zealand for a specified period, meet good character requirements, and have sufficient knowledge of the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship. Indus Legal assists applicants in Auckland and across New Zealand with assessing eligibility, preparing documentation, and submitting applications to the Department of Internal Affairs.
The physical presence requirements for citizenship by grant can be complex, particularly for applicants who have travelled frequently during their residence period. Our immigration lawyers carefully calculate your qualifying days, identify any absences that may affect your eligibility, and advise on the best timing for your application. We also assist with citizenship by descent applications for individuals born overseas to New Zealand citizen parents, and with applications for citizenship certificates and New Zealand passport applications.
For applicants whose first language is not English, Indus Legal provides clear, jargon-free guidance throughout the citizenship process. We ensure you understand every step - from gathering identity and character documents through to preparing for the citizenship ceremony. Whether you are based in Botany, South Auckland, or anywhere across Auckland, our team is here to help you complete the final step in your New Zealand immigration journey with confidence.
What we help with
- Citizenship by grant applications for qualifying permanent residents
- Detailed physical presence calculations and eligibility assessments
- Citizenship by descent applications for children born overseas to NZ citizen parents
- Good character requirement guidance including police certificate procurement
- New Zealand passport applications and citizenship certificate requests
- Advice on timing your application to meet all statutory requirements
Frequently asked questions
How long do I need to live in New Zealand before I can apply for citizenship?
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To apply for citizenship by grant, you must have held New Zealand permanent residence and been physically present in New Zealand for at least 1,350 days over a five-year period, with at least 240 days of physical presence in each of those five years. You must also have been entitled to be in New Zealand for the entire five-year period. Indus Legal can review your travel history and calculate whether you meet these thresholds.
Will I need to give up my current citizenship to become a New Zealand citizen?
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New Zealand allows dual citizenship, so you generally do not need to renounce your existing citizenship when you become a New Zealand citizen. However, some countries do not permit dual citizenship under their own laws, so it is worth checking the rules of your home country. Indus Legal can advise on the New Zealand side of this process.
What happens at a citizenship ceremony?
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After your application is approved by the Department of Internal Affairs, you will be invited to attend a citizenship ceremony where you make an affirmation or oath of allegiance to New Zealand. The ceremony is a formal but welcoming event typically held at your local council or a community venue. You officially become a New Zealand citizen at the conclusion of the ceremony.
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