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New Zealand Passport Photo

Q: How long does a New Zealand passport take to process?

Standard processing takes 10-15 working days within NZ. Urgent (3-day) and same-day services are available at additional cost.

Size & Requirements 2026

Complete guide to New Zealand passport photo specifications as required by the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA). Everything you need to know for a successful application.

📸 Create NZ Passport Photo Free →

Official Size

👤

↑ 45mm ↓

← 35mm →

35 × 45 mm

413 × 531 pixels @ 300 DPI

NZ Passport Photo Specifications

Photo Size	35mm × 45mm (1.38" × 1.77")
Digital Size	413 × 531 pixels (at 300 DPI)
Head Height	32-36mm (chin to crown)
Background Colour	Plain white or light grey
Colour/B&W	Colour only
Age of Photo	Taken within last 6 months
Glasses	Allowed without glare (removal recommended)
Expression	Neutral, mouth closed
File Format	JPEG (for online applications)

Detailed DIA Photo Requirements

Dimensions & Framing

• Photo must be exactly 35mm wide × 45mm high
• Head (chin to crown) should be 32-36mm
• Face should be centred horizontally
• Eyes should be approximately 28-35mm from bottom
• Small gap of 2-4mm above head to photo edge

Face & Expression

• Face the camera directly, looking straight ahead
• Neutral expression with mouth closed
• Both eyes must be open and clearly visible
• No squinting or excessive eye opening
• Natural skin tones (no filters)

Background

• Plain white or uniform light grey
• No patterns, textures, or shadows
• No other people or objects visible
• Must contrast with hair and face

Lighting Requirements

• Even lighting across the face
• No harsh shadows on face or background
• No red-eye effect
• Natural, accurate colour representation
• No overexposure or underexposure

Glasses & Accessories

• Prescription glasses allowed if no glare
• Eyes must be clearly visible through lenses
• No sunglasses or tinted lenses
• Frames should not cover eyes
• Removing glasses is recommended for best results

Head Coverings

• Religious head coverings permitted
• Face must remain fully visible
• No hats, caps, or beanies
• Medical exceptions with supporting documentation

Types of New Zealand Passports

Standard Passport

For New Zealand citizens for international travel. Available in 5-year or 10-year validity.

• 5-year: NZ$206 (online)
• 10-year: NZ$311 (online)
• Processing: 10-15 working days

Child Passport

For NZ citizens under 16. Requires consent from all guardians.

• Cost: NZ$113 (online)
• Validity: 5 years only
• Both parents must consent

Urgent Passport

Fast-track processing for urgent travel needs.

• 3-day: +NZ$200 extra
• Same day: +NZ$530 extra
• Available at selected offices

Online Passport Application Tips

Digital Photo Requirements

✓ JPEG format, minimum 413 × 531 pixels
✓ File size between 500KB and 10MB
✓ High quality, no pixelation or blur
✓ Accurate colours, no digital edits

Application Process

1 Go to passports.govt.nz and create RealMe account
2 Complete application form online
3 Upload your compliant photo
4 Pay online and await delivery

Common Photo Rejection Reasons

😊

Smiling

Must have neutral expression

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Wrong Size

Head too big or too small

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Shadows

On face or background

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Glasses Glare

Reflections hiding eyes

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Blurry Photo

Not sharp enough

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Wrong Background

Coloured or patterned

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Old Photo

Must be under 6 months

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Filters Used

No digital alterations

Frequently Asked Questions

What size is a New Zealand passport photo in pixels? ▼

For digital applications, NZ passport photos should be at least 413 × 531 pixels at 300 DPI. Higher resolution is acceptable. The file should be in JPEG format between 500KB and 10MB.

Can I take my own passport photo in New Zealand? ▼

Yes! The DIA accepts self-taken photos as long as they meet all requirements. Use a smartphone or camera, ensure good lighting and a plain background, then use VisaPicPro to format it correctly. Many Kiwis save money this way.

Where can I get passport photos taken in New Zealand? ▼

Options include PostShops (NZ Post), pharmacies like Unichem and Life Pharmacy, photo shops, and AA centres. Prices typically range from NZ$15-25 for a set. Or use our free tool to make your own!

How long does a New Zealand passport take to process? ▼

Standard processing takes 10-15 working days within NZ. From overseas, allow 20 working days. Urgent (3-day) and same-day services are available at additional cost from selected Passport offices.

Do NZ and Australian passport photos have the same requirements? ▼

Yes, both use the same 35×45mm size and similar requirements (white background, neutral expression). Photos made for one should generally work for the other, though NZ also accepts light grey backgrounds.