Official Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) photo specifications for New Zealand passport applications — everything you need to get it right first time.
Create Your New Zealand Passport Photo| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm |
| Head height | 32–36 mm from chin to crown |
| Background | Plain light grey or white |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed, both eyes open |
| Photo recency | Last 6 months |
| Glasses | Not permitted |
| Head coverings | Only for religious or medical reasons |
PassportSnap applies the exact New Zealand passport photo specifications automatically. Accepted or money-back guaranteed.
Create Your Passport Photo — FreeAlways verify the exact background requirement for New Zealand. Using white when light grey is required (or vice versa) is the #1 rejection cause.
Glasses are not permitted in most countries' passport photos, including New Zealand. Remove all eyewear.
Head must fill 32–36 mm from chin to crown. Use PassportSnap to verify this automatically.
Your photo must accurately reflect your current appearance within the required timeframe.
Use a plain light grey or white wall or hang a plain sheet of the correct color. Stand 2+ feet away to avoid shadows.
Natural window light or two lamps at face level — no overhead-only lighting which causes shadows.
Neutral expression, eyes open, looking directly into the camera. Take 15–20 shots to get the best one.
Select New Zealand as your country. We apply the exact 35 × 45 mm crop and plain light grey or white background requirement.
Get a print-ready file or digital submission file — compliant with Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) requirements.
Accepted by all major passport agencies or money back.
Faster than driving anywhere. Do it at home right now.
Your photo never leaves your device. No cloud uploads.
A fraction of the cost of any photo store or service.