Applying for citizenship

General information

Processing time for registration and nationality categories is approximately 3 to 6 months.  Applications cannot be prioritised.  All registrations and naturalisations are processed by the Home Office in London.

Information about British citizenship, other forms of British nationality and application forms are found on the UK Border Agency website. It explains whether you are a British citizen, how you can apply for British citizenship and how you can give up your citizenship. If you require any further information you can ring +44 151 672 5626 from 09.00 Monday - 17.00 Friday UK time, excluding public holidays.  

All applicants in New Zealand must send their application and supporting documents to the British High Commission in Wellington.

Consular Assistant
British High Commission
PO Box 1812
Wellington 6011

Under no circumstances can an application be sent directly to the Home Office in London.

Making your application

Persons who apply for a registration, naturalisation or renunciations at the British High Commission, Wellington must be in New Zealand at the time of application. Those currently outside New Zealand must contact their nearest British High Commission or Embassy.

Your original documents will be sighted by the British High Commission in Wellington and returned back to you within 4 to 6 weeks of receiving the application.  Please insure that you have all the correct documentation before sending your application.  Failure to send the correct documents, will delay your application.  Once all the correct documentation has been received your application is then forwarded to the Home Office in London for processing.
Please do not send an application for a British Passport (C1 or C2) with your application for Registration or Naturalisation.

Dual Citizenship

Under present legislation the United Kingdom recognises dual nationality, and, if you acquire New Zealand citizenship, this does not affect your right to hold a British passport and live in the United Kingdom.