New Zealand Passport Photo Requirements: Complete 2026 Guide
Official New Zealand passport and visa photo requirements from the Department of Internal Affairs, including the unique light background rule (not white), dimensions, and appearance guidelines.
Overview
New Zealand passport and visa photos must comply with specifications set by the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA). New Zealand follows ICAO guidelines and issues biometric e-passports with facial recognition data stored on an embedded chip.
You will need a compliant photo when applying for a new New Zealand passport, renewing your passport, or submitting a New Zealand visa application. New Zealand passports are valid for 10 years for adults aged 16 and over, and 5 years for children under 16.
One of the most distinctive aspects of New Zealand’s requirements is the background colour rule: the DIA specifies a light background that is not white. This catches many applicants off guard, as most other countries either require or prefer white.
Official Specifications
| Requirement | Value |
|---|---|
| Document | Visa photo (paper applications) |
| Size | 35 × 45 mm |
| Background | Light / neutral |
| Note | Plain, light-coloured background (not white). |
The New Zealand passport photo must measure 35 mm wide by 45 mm tall. The photo must be taken within the last 6 months and must be a true and accurate representation of the applicant’s current appearance.
The head height from chin to crown should occupy approximately 70–80% of the photo height, which equates to roughly 32–36 mm. The face must be centred in the image, and there should be a small margin of space above the head.
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Photo dimensions | 35 mm x 45 mm |
| Head height | Approximately 70–80% of frame |
| Background | Light, plain, NOT white |
| Recency | Taken within last 6 months |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed |
| Print quality | High-quality photo paper |
Background Requirements
This is where New Zealand differs from most countries. The DIA requires a light, plain background but explicitly states that it should not be white. A light grey or off-white is the most commonly used and accepted background colour.
The reasoning behind the no-white rule is to ensure adequate contrast between the subject and the background. A pure white background can wash out light-skinned subjects or create issues with the biometric facial recognition software used by New Zealand border systems.
- Light, plain background required (light grey is ideal)
- White backgrounds are NOT accepted
- No patterns, textures, or visible objects
- No shadows on the background or face
- Background must be uniform and evenly lit
- Must provide clear contrast with the applicant’s skin and hair
Unique to New Zealand
If you are used to other countries requiring white backgrounds, this is a critical difference. A photo with a pure white background will be rejected for a New Zealand application. Passlens’s New Zealand preset automatically applies the correct off-white/light grey background.
Clothing and Appearance
The applicant must face the camera directly with a neutral expression. The mouth must be closed and both eyes fully open. The DIA specifies that the applicant must not appear to be squinting or grimacing.
Glasses
The DIA does not allow glasses in New Zealand passport photos. This rule has been in effect since 2018 and applies to all types of eyewear, including prescription glasses with clear lenses. Sunglasses and tinted lenses are also prohibited.
Head Coverings
Head coverings are permitted only for genuine religious, medical, or cultural reasons. New Zealand is somewhat more inclusive than some other countries in this respect, also recognising cultural traditions. The face must still be fully visible from chin to forehead, and the head covering must not cast any shadow on the face.
Hair
Hair must not obscure the face, eyes, or eyebrows. The DIA recommends pulling long hair back if it falls across the face. Hair accessories that cover the forehead or face are not permitted.
How to Make It with Passlens
Passlens includes the specific New Zealand requirements, including the distinctive non-white background rule. The app automatically applies a light grey background that meets DIA standards.
- Open Passlens and select the New Zealand Visa preset.
- Remove your glasses. Ensure even, natural lighting on your face.
- Take a photo or upload an existing one. A plain wall works well as a starting background.
- Passlens will replace the background with a DIA-compliant light grey, detect your face, and crop to the correct 35x45 mm dimensions.
- Review the photo. Confirm the background is light but not white, your face is centred, and there are no shadows.
- Download the digital file for online submission or print on photo paper for in-person applications.
Where to Submit
New Zealand offers both online and in-person passport application options.
Online
The DIA’s online service at passports.govt.nz allows eligible applicants to apply and upload a digital photo. This is the fastest route for renewals, with processing typically taking 3 weeks from submission.
In Person
Applications can be submitted at approved passport photo agents across New Zealand, including participating PostShop outlets and AA centres. Bring two printed photos along with your application form and supporting documents. Processing takes approximately 3 weeks for standard service.
Urgent Service
Urgent processing is available in person at DIA passport offices in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. Same-day or next-day service is possible for an additional fee, subject to availability.
Overseas
New Zealand citizens abroad should apply through the nearest New Zealand Embassy or High Commission. Processing times overseas are generally 4 to 6 weeks. Online renewal is also available for overseas applicants.
Common Mistakes
The non-white background rule is the most common stumbling block, but there are several other frequent issues:
- White background: The most common mistake by far. New Zealand specifically rejects white backgrounds, unlike most countries.
- Wearing glasses: All glasses must be removed. No exceptions are granted.
- Head too small or too large in frame: The face should occupy 70–80% of the frame height.
- Shadows on the face: Shadows under the nose, chin, or around the eyes caused by uneven lighting.
- Red-eye: Photos with red-eye are rejected. Using Passlens avoids this issue entirely since it processes the image digitally.
- Hair covering face: Hair that falls across the forehead, eyes, or cheeks.
- Old photo: The photo must be taken within the last 6 months and must accurately represent the applicant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does New Zealand not allow a white background?
The DIA requires a non-white background to ensure sufficient contrast between the subject and the background. This improves the accuracy of the biometric facial recognition systems used at New Zealand’s border. A light grey background provides the necessary contrast without being too dark.
What shade of grey is acceptable for a New Zealand passport photo?
The DIA does not specify an exact shade of grey, but a light to medium grey is ideal. Very dark grey is too close to black and will be rejected. Off-white or light grey is the safest choice. Passlens uses a carefully calibrated light grey that falls within the accepted range.
Can I wear a tāmoko (Maori facial tattoo) in my New Zealand passport photo?
Yes. A tāmoko is a recognised cultural tradition in New Zealand and is fully accepted in passport photos. The photo should still meet all other specifications regarding expression, lighting, and background.
Are the requirements the same for New Zealand visa photos and passport photos?
Yes. The DIA applies the same specifications to both passport and visa photos: 35x45 mm, light non-white background, neutral expression, no glasses. If you have a compliant passport photo, it can also be used for visa applications.