Permanent residence and citizenship

Permanent residence is usually the next step after residence. You can live and work in New Zealand indefinitely, and come and go as you like.

Already have a visa

• Managing your visa and passport
• Your visa conditions
• Bring a family member to New Zealand
• Moving to and settling in New Zealand
• 2021 Resident Visa
• If your situation changes
• Permanent residence and citizenship
• Becoming a permanent resident
• Your commitment to New Zealand — permanent residence
• Exceptions for non-principal applicants
• Apply for New Zealand citizenship or passport
• Check if your child has New Zealand citizenship

Becoming a permanent resident

Find out the difference between a Resident and Permanent Resident Visa, who can apply, and what happens if you need to travel on a Resident Visa.

Your commitment to New Zealand — permanent residence

When you apply for permanent residence, you must show us you are committed to living in New Zealand permanently. Find out what evidence to provide.

Exceptions for non-principal applicants

If you were included in someone else's residence application you may be able to get a Permanent Resident Visa, a Second or Subsequent Resident Visa or extend your travel conditions before the principal applicant.

Apply for New Zealand citizenship or passport

To apply for New Zealand citizenship or a passport follow these New Zealand Passport Office and New Zealand Government website links to find out how.

Check if your child has New Zealand citizenship

How to find out if your child born inside or outside New Zealand is a New Zealand citizen.

Search for a visa by name

Get all the details for a visa, NZeTA, or how to update your passport sticker.

• How long it takes to process an application
• Fees, decision times and where to apply
• Request or change personal information
• Resource library
• Make a complaint
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• Forms and guides

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Use our online system to apply for selected visas, employer accreditation or check visa details.

Apply or complete an application

Accredited Employer Work Visa Child visas Partner visas Parent Resident Visa – EOI Straight to Residence Visa Work to Residence Visa Skilled Migrant Category – EOIs Student visa Visitor visa Working Holiday Visas Work visa Employer accreditation for the AEWV Job check for the AEWV Permanent Resident Visa Transit Visa

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• Preparing your application
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• Already have a visa

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