New Zealand Visa Photo Requirements: 2026 Guide (Paper Applications)
New Zealand visa photo requirements for paper applications: 35×45 mm size, light background (not pure white), and practical tips based on Immigration New Zealand guidance.
Overview
If you’re submitting a New Zealand visa application, you may need a compliant visa photo. For paper applications, Immigration New Zealand specifies a physical photo size and recommends a plain light background (often not pure white).
This guide covers what to check before you print: correct dimensions, a clean background, and a sharp, front-facing portrait.
Official Specifications
| Requirement | Value |
|---|---|
| Document | Visa photo (paper applications) |
| Size | 35 × 45 mm |
| Background | Light / neutral |
| Note | Plain, light-coloured background (not white). |
New Zealand visa photos for paper applications are commonly 35×45 mm. Use a plain, light-coloured background and ensure the photo is sharp and evenly lit.
Background Requirements
Use a plain light background (light grey is a safe choice). Avoid pure white if the guidance indicates a non-white light background is preferred.
- No patterns or textures.
- No shadows behind the head.
- Even lighting across face and background.
How to Make It with Passlens
Passlens includes the New Zealand Visa preset and helps you export a print-ready photo at true DPI.
- Open Passlens and select New Zealand Visa (paper).
- Upload your portrait photo.
- Use Auto fit to centre and size the face correctly.
- Set a compliant light background.
- Export at 300/600 DPI and print at 100% scale.