New Zealand plans an in-person citizenship test for migrants starting in the second half of 2027, covering rights, government, and key responsibilities.
New Zealand is moving to raise the bar for would-be citizens, with a new test planned to start in 2027.
The internal affairs minister said migrants applying for citizenship will need to pass an in-person test that checks knowledge of areas including government and human rights, beginning in the second half of 2027. The announcement was made on May 6, with Misryoum reporting on the details.
The test is expected to include 20 multiple-choice questions in English, and applicants will need to answer 15 correctly to pass.. Topics outlined for the questions include the Bill of Rights Act, human rights, certain criminal offences, voting rights, democratic principles, and how New Zealand’s government is structured.
In addition to civic knowledge, the planned assessment also references travel to and from New Zealand, as part of the broader expectations for applicants.
Misryoum notes that the move comes alongside a change in how eligibility is assessed: currently, applicants only sign a declaration confirming they understand the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship.
This shift matters because a knowledge test changes the citizenship pathway from a statement-based process to a demonstrated understanding, which may affect how applicants prepare before applying.
Further information on the test is being developed by the Department of Internal Affairs, the minister said. The aim, as described in the announcement, is to ensure people have enough knowledge of responsibilities and privileges before citizenship is granted.
The minister also emphasized that applicants should understand the principles New Zealanders associate with rights, including freedom of speech and the idea that no single person or group is above the law.
From applicants’ perspective, Misryoum says the introduction of a pass-or-fail test could become a clear milestone in planning for citizenship, especially as guidance is finalized over the coming months.