Migrants in New Zealand are rushing to apply for citizenship after the government announced a new citizenship test that will begin from late 2027. The test will require applicants to answer at least 15 out of 20 questions correctly on topics such as voting rights, democratic principles, criminal offences and the structure of government.

Several permanent residents told Radio New Zealand that the proposed test could create additional costs and delays, while others raised concerns over language barriers and accessibility for migrants from non-English speaking backgrounds.

A permanent resident in NZ, Ankit Sikka, said he plans to apply for citizenship as soon as he becomes eligible next year. Originally from India, Sikka said he has lived in New Zealand for around 10 years but spent some time outside the country during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“I just felt like it was just another process,” Sikka said to RNZ. “I did not find it something positive for me.”

Sikka argued that a test alone cannot determine whether someone will become a responsible citizen.

“A test just doesn’t prove anything,” he said. “It’s just memorising a few things for the exam. It’s just one extra inconvenience in people’s lives.”

He also warned that the exam could create challenges for people with different learning abilities. Instead of a written test, Sikka suggested the government could consider digital learning modules to help migrants understand New Zealand’s values and systems.

Citizenship test to be introduced from 2027
The New Zealand government announced earlier last week that citizenship applicants would need to pass the new test as part of efforts to strengthen understanding of civic responsibilities and national values.

Under the new system, applicants will have to pass a 20-question multiple-choice test in English and score at least 75%, or 15 correct answers, to qualify for citizenship.

The test will assess applicants’ understanding of civic responsibilities and democratic values in New Zealand. Topics will include the Bill of Rights Act, human rights, voting rights, democratic principles, the structure of government, some criminal offences and rules related to travelling on a New Zealand passport. The Department of Internal Affairs will release official study material before the test becomes mandatory.

The government said the move is aimed at ensuring new citizens understand the rights and responsibilities linked to New Zealand citizenship. Currently, applicants only sign a declaration confirming this understanding.

Certain groups, including children under 16, applicants aged 65 and above, people with severe medical conditions and some overseas applicants, will be exempt from the test. Those who fail can retake the exam up to six times, though extra fees may apply for each attempt.