Immigrants seeking New Zealand citizenship will soon have to pass a formal test, the government announced Wednesday.
Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden said that from 2027 applicants must sit an exam covering “state and human rights” issues. The test will consist of 20 multiple‑choice questions in English, with at least 15 correct answers required to pass.
Questions will cover the Bill of Rights, human rights, certain criminal offenses, voting rights, democratic principles, government structure, and travel regulations in New Zealand.
Van Velden said citizenship hopefuls should understand that New Zealanders believe in specific rights, such as freedom of expression and the principle that no individual or group is above the law.
She added the exam will ensure applicants have sufficient knowledge of their rights and responsibilities before gaining citizenship.
Authorities are still finalizing details, but the test will become mandatory for all applicants in the second half of 2027.
Currently, applicants only sign a declaration pledging to understand and uphold the responsibilities and rights of citizenship.
