Yes, seems like the criteria/requirements are changed. Thanks for the reply.
I took the affirmation of citizenship on Wednesday, so I am now officially a New Zealand citizen.
Timeline:
September 2004 - While watching The Two Towers, my partner remarks that we should move to New Zealand "someday"
October 2004 - I say that if George Bush gets re-elected, I'm leaving the States and never coming back
November 2004 - Bush gets re-elected
September 2006 - Partner applies to Massey University
March 2007 - Application rejected
September 2007 - Partner re-applies to Massey
March 2008 - Application approved
July 2008 - Arrival in Palmerston North
September 2012 - Partner and I split up; I submit my EOI for residency
October 2012 - EOI selected
November 2012 - Partner goes back to the States; I stay here
December 2012 - ITA issued
January 2013 - Residence visa processing begins
January 2013 to April 2013 - Mad scramble to find permanent employment so my residency will be approved
April 2013 - Residence visa granted
April 2015 - Permanent residence visa granted
April 2018 - Citizenship granted
Congratulations!
I got a letter a little over a week ago telling me my citizenship application had been approved so now I’m just waiting g on an invite to a ceremony in Dunedin. I don’t know how long that’ll be but it really doesn’t matter, I’m just happy to be almost done dealing with INZ forever.
Hi Sackboy
Apologies, didn't notice your message earlier.
Nothing has changed in term of the criteria. I was just under the impression that the time period spent on the "Work to Residence visa (accredited employer)" could be counted towards the citizenship. But unfortunately that time only starts when you have residence.
Can we still apply after 240 days in our 4th year or you have to wait until the 5 years are up to apply for citizenship?
Thanks
Sorry for the very late reply, Famous.
We met with the officer I think was Feb 9, submitted everything. Never got any letter saying it was approved. One day in early second week of March we decided to call DIA to find out what's happening and the officer said oh, our ceremony would be on the following week! We were moving house during that time too, despite informing them in Feb of our new address, we found the invitation to ceremony letter sent to the old address.
It all happened very fast. I was estimating to attend the ceremony in July or so but got it many months ahead. We are in South Auckland so did it in Vodafone arena.
The same day we got the citizenship certificate, we applied passport online. Did my photo myself against a white wall with a selfie stick. Just make sure you follow the required measurements. Got the passport via courier in about 10 days I think. Beautiful little black book!
I applied on day 242 of my 5th year When you contact them to make an appointment they will check your eligibility.