New Zealand
Photo requirements for passports, visas, and ID cards. Includes dimensions, background rules, and biometric requirements for 1 document type.
Helpful pages for document photos in New Zealand
Use these pages to move from country-level requirements to a specific document format, troubleshooting help, and print guidance.
Main document requirements
Open the main document requirements page for this country to see dimensions, background rules, and face-position guidance.
Why photos get rejected
Fix the most common background, framing, and expression problems.
Passport Photo Size Guide
Compare this country's dimensions with other common formats.
How to print passport photos
Print at home or at a pharmacy without scaling errors.
About photo requirements
When applying for a New Zealand passport, meeting the strict standards set by the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) is essential to avoid delays. The process is highly streamlined, with the DIA emphasising high-quality digital imagery for their online renewal system. Ensuring your photo adheres to these specific guidelines is the most important step in securing your travel document efficiently.
The official size for a New Zealand passport photo is 35mm wide by 45mm high, with your head occupying 70 to 80 percent of the frame. You must present a neutral expression with your mouth closed and eyes clearly visible, avoiding any shadows on your face or the plain, light-coloured background. Clear prescription glasses are permitted, but tinted lenses are not allowed. Head coverings are only permitted for religious or medical reasons, provided your full facial features remain visible.
See the full 35 × 45 mm §t:aeb34e20§ specifications for exact dimensions, face position, and background rules.
New Zealand has fully embraced digital applications, making the process convenient for most citizens. You must upload a high-resolution JPEG file via the official RealMe login portal on the DIA website; check the portal for exact file size limits. If you struggle with these technical specifications, idpic.app offers a free alternative to ensure your image meets the required dimensions and file size before you upload it to the government system.
Common issues
The most frequent reasons for rejection in New Zealand include uneven lighting that creates shadows behind the head or across the face. Many applicants also fail due to incorrect head positioning or expressions that are not strictly neutral, such as a slight smile. Additionally, photos that are over-edited or blurred often fail the automated validation checks used by the DIA, necessitating a complete resubmission of the application.
Learn more about common passport photo rejection reasons and how to fix them, or check our passport photo size guide for a global comparison.
Local tips
While you can visit a professional studio, prices for passport photos in New Zealand can range from $20 to $35 depending on your location. Many people choose to DIY by using a plain light-grey or white wall and natural, front-facing lighting to avoid harsh shadows. Always double-check that your camera is at eye level and that you are standing far enough away to avoid lens distortion before taking your shot.
For a step-by-step walkthrough, see our DIY passport photo guide or learn how to print passport photos at home.
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