How to renew your New Zealand passport 

Renewing your New Zealand passport is a straightforward process, whether you’re an adult or applying on behalf of a child. In this article, we’ll guide you through all the required steps of this process. Additionally, we’ll explain how the Smartphone iD app can help you obtain a passport photo that meets all the requirements. 

When can you renew your New Zealand passport?

For both adults and children, you can renew your New Zealand passport if it has expired or will expire within the next 12 months. It’s important to note that you cannot renew your passport if it has been lost, stolen, or damaged beyond normal wear and tear. 

In such cases, you will need to apply for a replacement passport instead. It’s advisable to start the renewal process well in advance of any planned international travel to avoid any last-minute stress and ensure you have a valid passport when you need it.

How to renew your New Zealand passport

To renew your New Zealand passport, you can follow these steps:

  1. Gather the required documents, including a completed passport application form, your current passport, and a compliant passport photo. Make sure your application form is filled out accurately and completely to avoid any delays in processing.
  2. Submit your application either online via the New Zealand Passport Office website or in person at a participating PostShop. If you’re submitting online, you’ll need to upload a digital copy of your passport photo.
  3. Pay the applicable passport fee using a credit card, debit card, or other accepted payment method.
  4. Wait for your new passport to be processed and delivered. Processing times can vary depending on the type of application and the current demand for passport services.

Passport renewal costs

The cost to renew a New Zealand passport varies depending on the type of passport and the processing time you require. As of 2025, a standard adult passport costs NZ$215, while a child passport costs NZ$125.
These prices include the passport application fee but do not cover the cost of the passport photo. If you require urgent processing, additional fees may apply. Smartphone iD offers a convenient solution for passport photos, helping you save both time and money compared to traditional photo studios or booths.

Collecting your new passport

Once your passport renewal application has been processed, you can choose to have your new passport delivered to your home address or collect it in person from a designated Passport Office. If you opt for home delivery, your passport will arrive via courier and require a signature upon receipt.

If you choose to collect your passport in person, you’ll need to bring a valid form of identification and your passport collection letter. It’s important to keep your new passport safe and secure at all times to avoid any issues when traveling.

Guarantee your passport approval with Smartphone iD

To ensure your passport renewal application is approved without any delays, it’s crucial to provide a high-quality passport photo that meets all the official requirements. This is where Smartphone iD comes in. Our app allows you to take your passport photo using your smartphone, with real-time instructions to guide you through the process.

Our advanced AI technology and team of experts verify your photo to guarantee compliance with New Zealand passport photo specifications. Once your photo is approved, it’s sent directly to your email, ready to be submitted with your passport renewal application. 

Sources

https://www.govt.nz/browse/passports-citizenship-and-identity/get-or-renew-a-new-zealand-passport/renew-or-replace-your-adult-passport

https://www.govt.nz/browse/passports-citizenship-and-identity/get-or-renew-a-new-zealand-passport/renew-or-replace-a-child-passport