New Zealand passport Photo Tool

Frequently asked questions

What is the New Zealand passport photo size?

35mm x 45mm, with your head (chin to crown) taking up 32-36mm, or roughly 70-80% of the photo height.

What background color does a New Zealand passport photo need?

A plain, light-colored background - but importantly, NOT white. Light grey or off-white is what New Zealand's Department of Internal Affairs recommends, unlike most countries that require white. Using a white background is a common reason NZ photos get rejected.

Can I take my own New Zealand passport photo (selfie)?

No - New Zealand does not accept selfies for passport photos, since they can distort facial proportions. Have someone else take the photo, standing about 1.5 metres away from you, against a plain light (non-white) background. You can still use this tool to crop and resize the photo afterward to the exact specification.

What are the New Zealand passport photo requirements?

A light, non-white background, neutral expression with mouth closed and both eyes open, no head tilt, taken within the last 6 months, and not digitally altered or filtered in any way.

Can I wear glasses in a New Zealand passport photo?

Prescription glasses are allowed if there's no glare and a clear gap between your eyes and the frames. Sunglasses and tinted or thick-framed glasses are not permitted.

How do I check if my New Zealand passport photo meets the requirements?

Compare your photo against the size (35x45mm), background color (light, not white), and expression requirements above. Use this tool to crop and resize your photo to the exact specification before submitting.