New Zealand citizenship test: requirements and civics quiz
New Zealand has no published official citizenship test question list. This page explains what naturalisation requires, links to the official source, and offers a free 15-question general civics quiz for learning. The quiz is not an official exam.
Start practising
Is there an official New Zealand citizenship test? We have not found a published official question list. Naturalisation requirements are summarised below with a link to the official source. The quiz on this page is a general civics quiz for learning and is not linked to any official process.
Does New Zealand have a citizenship test? How naturalisation works
Last reviewed: October 15, 2026 · Checked against the official source linked on this page.
Most people become New Zealand citizens by grant. You must have lived in New Zealand as a resident for at least the last five years, been physically present for at least 1,350 days in those five years (including at least 240 days in each year), be able to hold a basic conversation in English, be of good character and intend to keep living in New Zealand. Successful applicants take an oath or affirmation at a citizenship ceremony. There is no citizenship knowledge test in force yet. The Department of Internal Affairs plans to introduce a 20-question multiple-choice test, with a pass mark of 15 out of 20, from late 2027; applications lodged before it takes effect are not affected.
This is a civics practice quiz, not an official exam. It covers New Zealand’s system of government, key moments in its history, and its geography, languages and national symbols, which is useful background for the planned test. Always confirm the current rules with the Department of Internal Affairs before you apply.
| Official citizenship test | No. New Zealand has no published citizenship knowledge test. Naturalisation requirements still apply; see below and the official source. |
|---|---|
| How naturalisation works | No citizenship test is in force yet: applicants currently sign a declaration, and a 20-question multiple-choice test (pass mark 15 of 20) is planned from late 2027. |
| Language requirement | Applicants must be able to hold a basic conversation in English |
| Who it applies to | Under the plan, most adult applicants for citizenship by grant will need to pass the test once it starts. |
| Exemptions | Under the plan, applicants under 16 or over 65 will not sit the test, and it will not apply to citizenship by birth, by descent or under the Samoan citizenship pathway. |
Topics in the general civics quiz
- Government and lawParliament, the MMP voting system, the Bill of Rights Act and how New Zealand is governed.5 questions
- HistoryFrom the Treaty of Waitangi to women's suffrage and famous New Zealanders.5 questions
- Geography, culture and symbolsMountains, rivers, te reo Mฤori, the national anthems and the currency.5 questions
Sample questions
Answer: Wellington. Wellington, at the southern tip of the North Island, is the capital and the seat of Parliament.
Answer: 1840. The Treaty of Waitangi (Te Tiriti o Waitangi) was first signed at Waitangi on 6 February 1840 by representatives of the British Crown and Mฤori chiefs.
Answer: Aoraki / Mount Cook. Aoraki / Mount Cook, in the Southern Alps of the South Island, is New Zealand's highest peak.
How to prepare
Read the Department of Internal Affairs updates on the planned citizenship test, which will cover laws, voting, government and travel.
Learn the basics of the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990 and the Human Rights Act, both named in the planned test content.
Understand how MMP elections work, including the party vote and the electorate vote.
Learn the meaning of the Treaty of Waitangi and why Waitangi Day is New Zealand's national day.
Guides about citizenship in New Zealand
- Citizenship Test Changes in 2025 and 2026: What’s New – Recent citizenship test changes: the 2025 US civics test, France's mandatory civic exam, Germany's 2024 reform, and new…
New Zealand citizenship FAQ
Does New Zealand have a citizenship test?
Not yet. The government has announced a 20-question multiple-choice test with a pass mark of 15 out of 20, planned for late 2027. Until then, applicants confirm their knowledge of citizenship responsibilities by signing a declaration.
Who will have to take the planned test in New Zealand?
Most adults applying for citizenship by grant. Applicants under 16 or over 65 will not sit it, and it will not apply to citizenship by birth, by descent or under the Samoan pathway.
How long do I need to live in New Zealand before applying?
You must have been a resident for at least the last five years and been present in New Zealand for at least 1,350 days in that time, including at least 240 days in each year.
Is this New Zealand practice quiz the official test?
No. It is an independent civics practice quiz to help you learn about New Zealand. Check the Department of Internal Affairs for official requirements and test details.