Citizenship by Grant
For permanent residents who meet residence and presence requirements and want to become New Zealand citizens.
The Citizenship by Grant is a New Zealand settlement & citizenship visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~NZ$470.20 (adult application)) and processing time (~8-14 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Citizenship by Grant is for
For permanent residents who meet residence and presence requirements and want to become New Zealand citizens.
Confers full citizenship, including a New Zealand passport and the right to vote.
Citizenship by Grant - eligibility criteria
- Hold a residence class visa or permanent resident visa
- Have been present in NZ for at least 1,350 days over 5 years
- Have been present at least 240 days in each of those years
- Be of good character
- Intend to continue living in New Zealand and have enough English
Citizenship by Grant cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Citizenship by Grant (New Zealand) is ~NZ$470.20 (adult application), with an indicative processing time of ~8-14 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Immigration New Zealand.
| Type | Citizenship |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online or by paper application, from inside New Zealand |
| Length of stay | Permanent (citizenship) |
| Work rights | Full work rights as a citizen |
| Study rights | Full study rights as a citizen |
| Government fee | ~NZ$470.20 (adult application) |
| Processing time | ~8-14 months |
| Route to PR | Confers full citizenship, including a New Zealand passport and the right to vote. |
Pathway & next steps
Confers full citizenship, including a New Zealand passport and the right to vote.
Many applicants also compare PRV · Permanent Resident Visa, SMC · Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, Partner Resident · Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa. Run a free VisaChief check to see which New Zealand route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Citizenship by Grant pitfalls we fix
Citizenship by Grant - frequently asked questions
How much does the Citizenship by Grant cost?
The Citizenship by Grant government fee is ~NZ$470.20 (adult application). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Immigration New Zealand before applying.
How long does the Citizenship by Grant take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~8-14 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Citizenship by Grant lead to permanent residence?
Confers full citizenship, including a New Zealand passport and the right to vote.
Can I work on the Citizenship by Grant?
Work rights: Full work rights as a citizen.
Who can apply for the Citizenship by Grant?
For permanent residents who meet residence and presence requirements and want to become New Zealand citizens.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official New Zealand government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Immigration New Zealand - official New Zealand immigration authority