In an era of increased international travel, it is crucial to have the proper identification documents. For New Zealand citizens who may not possess a passport, the New Zealand Certificate of Identity (CoI) is a valuable alternative. In this article, we will explore what a Certificate of Identity is, how to apply for one, the required documents, a certificate of identity photo and more.
What is a New Zealand Certificate of Identity?
A New Zealand Certificate of Identity (CoI) is an international travel document issued by the Department of Internal Affairs to an alien resident of or visitor to New Zealand who is unable to obtain a national passport or has a national passport that is unacceptable to Immigration New Zealand so that they can leave New Zealand. It is not usually issued to a person whose government is represented in New Zealand or Australia.
Who is eligible for a New Zealand Certificate of Identity?
To be eligible for a New Zealand CoI, you must be:
- A person who is not a New Zealand citizen
- Unable to obtain a passport from your country of citizenship
- Physically present in New Zealand
You may be eligible for a CoI if you are:
- A refugee
- A person who has a passport from a country that is not recognised by New Zealand
- A person whose passport has been lost or stolen and cannot be replaced
- A stateless person
- A person whose passport has been revoked or suspended by their government
- A person who is fleeing persecution in their home country
How to apply for a New Zealand Certificate of Identity
To apply for a New Zealand CoI, you must complete an application form and submit it to the New Zealand Passport Office Department of Internal Affairs. The application form can be downloaded from the Department of Internal Affairs website.
To ensure you can monitor the delivery progress of your application, it is advisable to dispatch it through a courier service.
Send it exclusively to the following address:
New Zealand Passport Office
Department of Internal Affairs
Level 2, 7 Waterloo Quay
Pipitea
Wellington 6011
New Zealand
Supporting documents
- A valid form of identification, such as a driver’s licence or alien resident card
- Proof that you are unable to obtain a passport from your country of citizenship
- A recent passport-style photograph of yourself
- Someone to act as a witness who is over 16 years of age and has a valid New Zealand passport
- The correct application fee
Processing time for a New Zealand Certificate of Identity
The processing time for a New Zealand CoI is typically 2-3 weeks. However, it may take longer if your application is complex or there are delays in obtaining the necessary supporting documentation.
Cost of a New Zealand Certificate of Identity
The application fee for a New Zealand CoI is NZ$120.00.
If you apply by mail, you can pay your fee by credit card. DO NOT POST CASH. If you apply in person at a Passport Office counter, you can pay by EFTPOS.
New Zealand Certificate of Identity photo requirements
Your passport-style photograph for your New Zealand CoI application must meet the following requirements:
Photo Age
- Photos should not exceed six months in age.
Photo Dimensions
- The standard size should measure 35mm x 45mm.
Head Size
- The head and hair should fit within the oval shape provided in the template.
- The maximum head size, including hair, should not exceed 80% of the photo.
- The head should be centered, leaving a clear gap around the sides and top, including the hair.
Paper Quality
- Utilise high-quality, high-resolution photo paper.
- You may also use colour film or low-gloss coated thermal papers, as long as the printer has high resolution.
- Avoid using matte paper, heavy-backed thermal paper, or an ink-jet printer
Photo Quality
- Ensure that the photo is unaltered and represents a true image.
- The photo should be in focus, free from red-eye, and without any reflected light on the face.
Background
- The background should be plain and light in colour but not white.
- There should be a strong contrast between the image and the background, with no shadows.
Pose
- Face the camera directly with your head straight, eyes open, and mouth closed.
- Maintain a neutral expression, avoiding both smiling and frowning.
- Make sure no hair is covering your face or eyes, as the eyes must be clearly visible.
Glasses
- Your eyes should be clearly visible through the glasses, with no reflections.
- Avoid wearing glasses with heavy-rimmed frames.
- Do not wear sunglasses or glasses with tinted lenses that obscure your eyes.
Head Covering or Headband
- Refrain from wearing any head covering or headband in the photo unless it is required for religious or medical reasons.
Conclusion
A New Zealand Certificate of Identity is a valuable travel document for people who are unable to obtain a passport from their country of citizenship.
To get your COI quickly take your NZ Certificate of Identity photo through our Smartphone iD App.
FAQs
What is the difference between a New Zealand Certificate of Identity and a refugee travel document?
A New Zealand Certificate of Identity is a travel document issued to people who are unable to obtain a passport from their country of citizenship, regardless of their immigration status.
A refugee travel document is issued to refugees who have been granted refugee status in New Zealand.
How long is a New Zealand Certificate of Identity valid for?
A New Zealand Certificate of Identity is valid for two years from the issue date.
Can I renew my New Zealand Certificate of Identity?
A: Yes, you can renew your New Zealand Certificate of Identity before it expires. The application process for renewing a CoI is the same as that for obtaining a CoI for the first time.
