Frequently Asked Questions

Q: If I fill out the online application will I be enlisted into the Army?

A: No. Filling in the online application is simply the first step in the application process and does not commit you to serve in the Army.

Q: How much time do you have to commit to serving in the Army Reserve?

A: The minimum requirement is 20 days per year which can be made up of 3 hour week night training sessions, weekend training exercises and longer courses such an Annual Field Exercise (AFE).

Q: Does my employer have to give me time off from work for Army Reserve Training?

A: In some cases, yes, but this depends upon the amount of time you request and the period of notice you give your employer.

Read a full explanation of your rights and obligations under the Volunteers Employment Protection Act.

Q: Are there Fitness requirements for joining the Army Reserve?

A: Yes, in order to join the Army Reserve you must pass the Entry Fitness Level Test (EFL).

Q: Do I have to be a New Zealand Citizen to join the Army Reserve?

A: No. You may join if you are a Permanent Resident, or a Citizen of the United States, Canada, Australia or the United Kingdom, but you cannot serve overseas until you become a New Zealand Citizen.

Q: If I join the Army Reserve, will I be sent overseas?

A: Overseas Service or Operational Service is voluntary for Army Reserve members.

Q: How do I know if I want to be an Officer or a Soldier?

A: Officers are the Army's leaders and managers, Soldiers are the Army's specialists but as they gain experience and skills, they may also serve in leadership positions. In order to apply for Officer selection you must possess certain academic qualifications (in most cases, University entrance or higher).

Find out more about becoming an Officer.

Find out more about becoming a Soldier.

Q: What different positions can I serve in?

A: Army Reserve soldiers can specialise in a variety of different areas, from Infantry Soldiers to Signallers, Medical Technicians and Intelligence Operators.

Find out more about positions available in the Army Reserve.

Q: Do I get paid to be a member of the Army Reserve?

A: Army Reservists are paid for the training they do, and may qualify for additional benefits such as Holiday Pay, Field Allowance and Incidental Allowances.

Find out more about pay in the Army.

Q: How long do I have to serve?

A: Generally you are enlisted on an initial six year contract but you may leave at any time. You can also take periods of leave from Army training for between three months and two years if you require a temporary break to focus on other commitments such as work and family.