Is it your aspiration to become a citizen of New Zealand in 2025? Whether you are currently in Auckland sipping flat whites or are preparing to relocate from abroad, one significant query remains: “What is the process for obtaining New Zealand citizenship by grant?”
We are here to provide you with an exhilarating (yes, thrilling!) timeline deep-dive, as the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) has recently released updated insights on processing timeframes. So, buckle up.
Current NZ Citizenship Application Timeline (as of June 2025)
If you submitted your registration prior to February 2025, you have ultimately advanced to the front of the queue. Applications that were submitted within the past month are currently being evaluated. However, what if your application was submitted after February 2025? You are currently in the waiting lounge, and there are no additional status updates available at this time.
Citizenship by the Numbers – What to Expect?
The most recent data from DIA regarding the processing of projections is as follows:
- Within 12 months: 90% of applicants receive an outcome within 12 months, which may include approval, a request for additional information, or, in uncommon instances, rejection.
- Within 19 months: 90% of candidates are granted citizenship within 19 months. Certainly, this implies that you will ultimately be elevating your right hand during a local council ceremony.
Check Also: New Zealand Visa Application Submissions Issued
Why Some Applications Move Faster Than Others?
Are you curious as to why your acquaintance was granted citizenship months prior to you? The following is the inside information:
- Online applications are prioritized – Online applications are prioritized due to the fact that they are more efficient and straightforward to process by DIA systems.
- Please ensure that you submit your application online whenever feasible.
- Complete documentation matters – Applications that are submitted with all necessary supporting documents and a high-quality photograph are processed more efficiently.
- Manual intervention is a time-consuming process – Certain applications necessitate human review, particularly those that are impacted by laws such as the Citizenship (Western Samoa) Act 1982 or contain intricate details.
- Processing may be delayed by overseas verifications – Response timings may result in a delay if DIA is required to verify your documents or status with authorities in other countries.
DIA’s Mission: Speeding Up the Process
The Department of Internal Affairs has implemented numerous efficiency enhancements in order to manage the high volume of applications:
- Implementation of more sophisticated automated checks
- Allocating more staff and instruction
- Making technological upgrades to streamline assessments
However, do not anticipate any miraculous events. No, there is no express path for New Zealand citizenship—at least not for the general public.
Need Urgent Processing? Read This First
While there is no official urgency citizenship service, exceptions may be granted in exceptional and justifiable circumstances. In the event that you require citizenship in a hurry, your request may be taken into account:
- A medical emergency necessitating international travel
- Participating in a professional or sporting event on behalf of New Zealand
- A humanitarian crisis, political candidacy, or work deployment
Documented proof is required for all urgency requests, and DIA will not approve requests that are founded on:
- Financial convenience (e.g., circumventing the passport fees of your native country)
- Preferences for personal travel
- Desiring to obtain a New Zealand passport as soon as possible.
Citizenship Ceremony: Your Final Milestone
You will be invited to participate in a citizenship ceremony that is organized by your local council upon the approval of your application. This is the location where you will formally pledge allegiance to New Zealand and receive your citizenship certificate.
- The duration of ceremonies varies depending on the location—some are conducted on a monthly basis, while others are held every few months. Therefore, there may be a delay even after approval.
Pro tip: These events are frequently memorable and joyous, featuring speeches, official oaths, and occasionally traditional Māori performances such as kapa haka. Be certain to invite your loved ones to join you in celebrating!
Don’t Let Your Travel Docs Expire!
While you await, ensure that:
- Your present passport is valid for a minimum of one year.
- Your NZ visas are still valid.
If you find yourself unexpectedly compelled to travel, it is crucial to avoid being stranded with expired documents.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long does it take for NZ citizenship to be approved?
In general, 90% of applicants receive a response within 12 months of submitting their application.
How long does it take to get citizenship after PR in New Zealand?
A visa for permanent residence. a permanent resident visa after two years of residency. After a period of five years as a New Zealand resident, it is possible to petition for New Zealand citizenship.
What is the mode of acquisition of NZ citizenship?
New Zealand citizenship is of three primary types: by birth, by descent, and by grant. You must be a citizen of New Zealand in order to obtain a passport. What type of citizenship you are eligible for is dependent upon your circumstances.
