Citizenship by descent
For children born outside New Zealand who have at least one parent who was a New Zealand citizen by birth or grant at the time of the child's birth.
Who this pathway suits
Children born abroad to New Zealand citizen parents.
Eligibility at a glance
- Born outside New Zealand
- At least one parent was a New Zealand citizen by birth or grant at the time of your birth
How the process works
- Register citizenship by descent with the Department of Internal Affairs
- Simultaneously apply for child's New Zealand passport
Documents you will typically need
- Child's original birth certificate, parents' marriage certificate, New Zealand parent's birth certificate or passport
What to keep in mind
Citizenship by descent is not automatically passed down to another generation born outside New Zealand without subsequent residence.
Official source: Department of Internal Affairs — Citizenship by descent. Government authorities make all final decisions; no outcome is guaranteed.
Parallel Options & Supporting Tools for Citizenship by descent
Explore supporting intelligence briefings, interactive points assessment tools, institutional services, and parallel global migration pathways.
Supporting Tools & Verification Checklists
Supporting Briefings & Advisory Articles
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