Can I keep my current citizenship, for example my Indian citizenship, if I become a New Zealand citizen?
It depends on your other country's rules. New Zealand allows dual or multiple citizenship, but some countries do not. Check with that country's embassy or consulate in New Zealand. Tell the Department of Internal Affairs about any other citizenship you hold when you apply.
Official figures
- Application fee
- Adults (16 and over) NZ$641; children (15 and under) NZ$3201
- Processing time
- 3 to 14 months1
- Years as a resident
- You must have lived in New Zealand as a resident for at least the past 5 years2
- Days in New Zealand
- Count back 5 years from the day you apply: at least 240 days in each 12-month period, and 1,350 days in total over the 5 years2
- Time overseas warning
- If you are out of New Zealand for more than 4 months in any 12-month period, or more than 15 months in total over 5 years, you may not meet the requirement2
Official sources
- How to apply for NZ citizenshipDepartment of Internal Affairs · govt.nz
- Presence in NZ requirementsDepartment of Internal Affairs · govt.nz
- Character requirementsDepartment of Internal Affairs · govt.nz
- Citizenship ceremoniesDepartment of Internal Affairs · govt.nz
Read the full guide: Apply for New Zealand citizenship →
People also ask
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Answers are based on official New Zealand government pages. Check the official source before you act. This is not immigration, legal or tax advice.
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