Migrants applying for New Zealand citizenship will soon be required to pass a new multiple-choice citizenship test under a government initiative expected to take effect in late 2027.
By RNZ Parliamentary reporters
The proposed test will require applicants to demonstrate knowledge of what the government describes as the “responsibilities and privileges” of being a New Zealand citizen. Topics are expected to include democratic principles, the Bill of Rights Act, voting rights, the structure of government, human rights, and certain criminal offences.
Applicants will reportedly need to achieve at least 75 percent correct answers in order to pass the assessment.
Currently, applicants are only required to sign a declaration confirming they understand the rights and responsibilities associated with citizenship, alongside meeting residency, character and English language requirements.
Government says move will strengthen citizenship
Announcing the policy, Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden said the changes are intended to reinforce the meaning and value of New Zealand citizenship.
“People seeking citizenship should understand New Zealanders believe in certain rights, like freedom of speech, or that no one person or group is above the law,” van Velden said.
She described becoming a New Zealand citizen as “a significant milestone in a person's life and a great honour.”
According to the report, officials are currently developing the test and are expected to provide guidance materials and preparation resources before the system is formally introduced.
ACT claims policy victory
ACT leader David Seymour welcomed the announcement, describing it as a long-standing ACT Party position.
“Since 2016, I've argued new migrants should understand a simple proposition: in New Zealand, regardless of your gender, sexuality, ethnicity, or religion, you have the same legal rights as everybody else,” Seymour stated.
“Nearly a decade later, ACT has got it over the line.”
The announcement also follows recent comments by New Zealand First leader Winston Peters, who previously called for a “Kiwi values” pledge for migrants.
At his party’s conference last year, Peters said concerns were growing about some migrants allegedly failing to respect New Zealand values and institutions.
“Concerns are growing, as to some of the people who have come here who don't salute our flag, don't honour the values of our country, don't respect the people living here,” Peters stated.
Debate likely to continue
The proposal is likely to generate debate over integration, national identity, multiculturalism and what standards should be required before granting citizenship.
Supporters argue that citizenship should involve a demonstrated understanding of New Zealand’s laws, democratic system and civic expectations.
Critics, however, may question how “New Zealand values” are defined, how culturally neutral the testing process will be, and whether the move risks politicising citizenship requirements.
The citizenship test is expected to be implemented during the second half of 2027 following further development and consultation.
Source: RNZ