May 29, 2026 · Country Guides
New Zealand Passport Photo Requirements 2026 – DIA Standards
New Zealand passport photos follow the ICAO 35×45mm standard, administered by the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) at passports.govt.nz. Applications can be submitted digitally via the RealMe identity service or in person at PostShop outlets. The New Zealand passport grants visa-free access to over 185 countries, making it one of the world's strongest travel documents.
NZ Passport Photo Requirements at a Glance
| Requirement | Rule |
|---|---|
| Photo size | 35mm wide × 45mm tall (ICAO) |
| Head height | 32–36mm from chin to crown |
| Background | Plain white or off-white, no patterns or shadows |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed |
| Eyes | Fully open, looking directly at camera |
| Glasses | Not permitted |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Digital submission | Yes — via passports.govt.nz / RealMe |
| Printed photos | Accepted at PostShop / Australia Post |
| Authority | Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) |
Digital Photo Submission via RealMe
The DIA accepts digital photo submissions for New Zealand passport applications processed online through passports.govt.nz. Applicants with a verified RealMe identity can complete the entire application digitally, including uploading the passport photo. When submitting digitally, the photo must:
- Be in JPEG format
- Have a minimum resolution sufficient to maintain 35×45mm at 600 DPI (approximately 827×1063 pixels)
- Show a plain white or off-white background
- Be taken within the last 6 months
- Not be digitally altered beyond standard exposure adjustment and background removal
For in-person applications, printed photos can be submitted at any New Zealand PostShop or participating Australia Post outlet. One photo is typically required. The identity referee (guarantor) must sign the back of the printed photo and complete the required declaration.
5-Year vs 10-Year NZ Passport
Adult New Zealand passport holders (16 years and over) can choose between a 5-year passport and a 10-year passport. The 10-year option costs more but reduces the frequency of renewal. Child passports for applicants under 16 are issued for 5 years only, because children's appearances change more rapidly and their photos may become unreliable for identification purposes after a shorter period.
The New Zealand passport consistently ranks among the world's most powerful travel documents, providing visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 185 countries, including the entire Schengen Area, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia.
Child Passport Photo Rules
Every child, regardless of age, must have their own New Zealand passport. The same 35×45mm format and DIA quality requirements apply to child photos. Practical tips for photographing young children:
- Lay infants on a plain white blanket or sheet — the background must appear white or off-white in the final photo
- Parents, guardians, and hands must not appear in the frame
- Eyes should be open and facing the camera; a natural infant gaze is accepted
- No toys, dummies, or accessories should be visible
- Even lighting with no shadows on the face is required
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit a digital photo for a New Zealand passport?
Yes. New Zealand passport applications submitted online via the DIA portal or the RealMe identity service accept digital photos. The photo must still meet all DIA size and quality requirements: 35×45mm equivalent, white or off-white background, correct head height. Printed photos are accepted at PostShop outlets for in-person applications.
Does New Zealand accept standard ICAO 35×45mm passport photos?
Yes. New Zealand follows the ICAO 35×45mm standard for passport photos. This is the same format used across the European Union, the UK, and most of the world. Head height must be between 32 and 36mm from chin to crown.
Can I take my own New Zealand passport photo at home?
Yes. Home photos are permitted for NZ passport applications. The photo must meet DIA requirements: plain white or off-white background, even lighting with no shadows, neutral expression, eyes open and looking at the camera, and the correct 35×45mm dimensions. The DIA recommends having the photo signed by an identity referee for in-person applications.
Are glasses allowed in New Zealand passport photos?
No. Glasses are not permitted in New Zealand passport photos. This rule aligns with international ICAO biometric standards. If you normally wear glasses, you must remove them for the photo.
What are the photo rules for a baby or child NZ passport?
Children of all ages, including babies, must have their own passport with their own photo. The same 35×45mm format applies. For infants, you may lay the baby on a plain white surface. Parents must not appear in the frame. Eyes should be open if possible.
How long is a New Zealand passport valid?
Adult New Zealand passports are issued for either 5 years or 10 years. Child passports (under 16) are issued for 5 years only. The NZ passport grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 185 countries including all Schengen Area countries.
Always verify current requirements with the official authority before submitting. DIA photo requirements are subject to change. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for official DIA guidance. Check passports.govt.nz for the latest instructions.
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