Photographic Image Requirements for NZ Travel Documents

The Department of Internal Affairs has revised its photo standards for use in New Zealand travel documents and applications for citizenship. The new photo standards are effective from 1 June 2005.

The revised standards match those set by ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organisation). ICAO photo standards have been reviewed to accommodate the introduction of a chip-enhanced e-Passport with the potential to use Facial Recognition Technology as part of border facilitation.

The Department will be enforcing the revised requirements and any photos not meeting an acceptable standard will be rejected.

By following the photo guidelines you can avoid application-processing delays by ensuring that acceptable photos are taken first time.

In the USA, please avoid a pure white backdrop for the photo. Request that the photo be taken in front of a light coloured wall instead.

The photo guidelines are available on the DIA website.