A provider has been selected to deliver New Zealand's new in-person citizenship test, which is set to become part of the citizenship by grant process from late 2027.
Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden announced Aspeq Limited had been chosen to work alongside the Department of Internal Affairs to design the service, including the booking, payment and delivery of tests nationwide.
"Selecting a provider for the design phase is an important step towards implementing the test," van Velden said.
“Aspeq Limited brings established testing capability and relevant experience to this work. The work with Aspeq will ensure the test is secure, consistent and accessible to applicants across New Zealand.”
Van Velden said the test would ensure applicants understood the rights and responsibilities of being a New Zealand citizen, including freedom of speech and the principle that no person or group is above the law.
Existing citizenship requirements, including those relating to time spent in New Zealand, character, English language ability and an intention to continue living in the country, would remain in place.
Announced earlier this year, the in-person test would consist of 20 multiple-choice questions in English, with applicants given 45 minutes to complete it and needing at least 15 correct answers to pass.
Questions would cover topics including New Zealand's system of government, democratic principles, human and voting rights and the Bill of Rights Act.
New Zealand citizenship by grant requires holding a resident visa for at least five years, basic English, good character, and being present in the country for 240 days per year, or 1350 days total.
Those applying for citizenship by grant currently sign a declaration stating they understand the responsibilities and privileges of becoming a NZ citizen.
The Department of Internal Affairs said the test would apply to most adult applicants from late 2027. Applicants under 16 and over 65 would not be required to take the test.
People using citizenship by birth, descent or Western Samoa pathways would not need to complete the test.
Some applicants may also be eligible for exemptions. Details of these exemptions would be communicated prior to the test becoming a requirement, it said.
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