Applying for a New Zealand passport is a relatively straightforward process. However, there are a few things you need to do before you get started. This article will walk you through the steps involved in applying for a New Zealand passport, from gathering the required documentation to submitting your application.
Requirements
To apply for a New Zealand passport, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident.
- You must be at least 16 years old.
- You must have a valid RealMe login.
- You must have an identity referee.
- You must have a conforming passport photo.
- You must have a device with internet access and a camera.
- You must have an emergency contact.
- You must have a payment method.
Cost
The cost of a New Zealand passport depends on the type of passport you are applying for and the age of the applicant. The following table shows the current fees for New Zealand passports:
| Passport type | Age | Fee (NZD) |
| Adult passport | 16 years and older | 180 |
| Child passport | 5-15 years | 100 |
| Infant passport | Under 5 years | 50 |
Ways to apply for a New Zealand passport
1-Applying online
The fastest way to apply for a New Zealand passport is online. To do this, you will need to:
- Go to the New Zealand Passports website and create a RealMe account if you don’t already have one.
- Log in to your RealMe account and click the “Apply for a passport” button.
- Follow the instructions on the screen to complete your application.
- Pay the passport fee.
- Submit your application.
Once you have submitted your application, you will receive an email confirmation. You will also be able to track the status of your application online.
2-Applying in person
If you cannot apply online for a New Zealand passport, you can apply in person at a New Zealand Post office. To do this, you will need to:
- Download and print the passport application form.
- Complete the application form and attach the required documentation.
- Take the application form and documentation to a New Zealand Post office.
- Pay the passport fee.
- Submit your application.
Once you have submitted your application, you will be given a receipt. You will also be able to track the status of your application online.
How long does it take to get a New Zealand passport?
The processing time for New Zealand passport applications varies depending on the time of year and the number of applications being processed. However, you can expect to receive your passport within 10-15 working days of submitting your application.
Tips for applying for a New Zealand passport
Here are a few tips for applying for a New Zealand passport:
- Accelerate your NZ passport application with the Smartphone iD online passport photo service.
- Ensure you have all the required documentation before starting your application.
- Review your application carefully before submitting it.
- Keep your receipt and track the status of your application online.
If you are not sure if your passport photo meets the New Zealand passport photo requirements, you can upload it to the New Zealand Passports website for review.
Get Your NZ Passport Photo Online With Smartphone iD Service
Using our passport photo online service, you’ll have peace of mind that your passport photos are 100% up to government standards. We certify every photo with AI and our specialist team. So get started with the steps below!
- Make sure to remove your glasses or any accessories covering your face.
- Ensure that there are no shadows covering your face (even lighting across your face).
- Keep a neutral expression whilst keeping the camera at eye level.
- Take your photo then follow the instructions in the Smartphone iD app.
1. Through our website
Click the “Take a photo” button on the Smartphone iD website, select the required country, “NZ,” and document type, “Passport.” Take your photo. After our team of experts and the AI system validate the photo, you will receive it via email.
2. Through our mobile app
- Download the Smartphone iD app on your phone.
- Capture your NZ Passport photo by following the instructions in the Smartphone iD app.
- After our team of experts and the AI system validate the photo, you will receive it via email.
Advantages of using the Smartphone iD app to take your New Zealand passport photo
There are several advantages to using the Smartphone iD app to take your New Zealand passport photo:
- It is a convenient and easy way to take your passport photo.
- You can take your passport photo at home or anywhere else with a good internet connection.
- The Smartphone iD app will automatically crop, resize, and check your photo to meet the New Zealand passport photo requirements.
- The real-time examination and expert checks ensure that your pictures will pass inspection.
- Our prices are very competitive and for any cases you will get a full refund.
Conclusion
Obtaining a New Zealand passport involves a series of steps, including providing appropriate passport photos. Smartphone ID app with AI-enhanced features can greatly accelerate the process by ensuring that your passport photo meets the necessary standards at a low cost.
FAQ
How can I renew my New Zealand passport when it’s about to expire or has already expired?
To renew your New Zealand passport, you can apply online.This is the fastest and easiest way to renew your passport. To apply online, you will need:
- A RealMe login
- A valid digital passport photo
- An identity referee
- A credit, debit, or Prezzy® card
Is there a way to get a New Zealand passport faster if I have urgent travel plans?
Yes, there is a way to get a New Zealand passport faster if you have urgent travel plans. You can apply for an urgent passport online.
To apply for an urgent passport online, you will need to:
- Go to the Passport Office website and create an account.
- Click on the “Apply for a passport” button and select “Urgent passport”.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload a valid passport photo taken with smartphone iD app
- Pay the urgent passport fee.
How many passport photos are required for a New Zealand passport application?
If you choose to fill in the passport application online, it will require 1 (one) digital picture for your New Zealand passport. Filling a paper application means you will need 2 (two) identical passport photos printed on high-quality photographic paper.
CAN I SMILE IN MY PASSPORT PHOTO?
No, you must have a neutral expression with your mouth closed.
ARE THERE ANY RESTRICTIONS ON WHAT I CAN WEAR IN MY PASSPORT PHOTO?
You should not wear anything that obscures your face, such as hats or headbands.
WHAT ARE THE CONSEQUENCES OF SUBMITTING A NON-COMPLIANT PASSPORT PHOTO?
If you submit a non-compliant passport photo, your application may be delayed, or you may be asked to submit a new photo that meets the requirements.
HOW LONG DOES IT TYPICALLY TAKE TO GET A PASSPORT PHOTO TAKEN AND PROCESSED?
It depends on the service you use. Smartphone iD can take and process your photo in a matter of minutes.
HOW CAN I ENSURE THAT MY PASSPORT PHOTO MEETS ALL THE NECESSARY REQUIREMENTS?
You can use the online passport photo checker provided by the Department of Internal Affairs, or you can use an app like Smartphone iD, which provides expert guidance and uses AI to ensure that your passport photo complies with all the requirements.
