Kiwis looking to head overseas this summer are being urged to check their passport expiry dates, with the first of the re-issued 10-year passports expiring this month.
The 10-year passport was reintroduced in November 2015 and, between now and December 31, a total of 26,420 passports are set to run out. Another 250,000 will then expire in the first half of 2026.
The Department of Internal Affairs (DIA), which issues passports, said it had been preparing for the surge in renewals by recruiting more staff and cross-training existing workers to handle peak periods.
It said most applications were being dealt with within 10 working days but travellers should allow at least four weeks to avoid last minute stress.
“Last week, 91.1% of applications were issued within 10 working days, but we continue to encourage people to allow at least four weeks (20 working days),” DIA general manager of services and access Adrian Jarvis said.
“It is never great to start a holiday stressed about whether your passport will arrive in time.”
He added: “While we will be doing our best to keep issuing most passports within 10 working days, that may fluctuate if we get sharp peaks.
“So, our message is – make sure you allow at least four weeks and check the DIA website for the latest timeframes.”
Check your destination’s passport requirements
The Travel Agents’ Association of New Zealand (TAANZ) said travellers tend to overlook passport validity, which could see them denied boarding or entry if their passports are close to expiring.
TAANZ chief executive Julie White said most countries require at least three to six months validity upon arrival.
“If your passport is due to expire before May 2026, you may be denied boarding if you plan to travel overseas from December 2025.”
Even if a destination only requires three months of validity, stricter rules in transit countries could still stop a traveller from boarding.
“Checking early and renewing now ensures smooth sailing through check-in, transit, and border control,” White said.
Jarivs at DIA said one of the most common causes of delay in issuing a new passport is the quality of photos.
“Avoid smiling, wearing hats or thick glasses, and make sure your photo is taken against a light, plain background,” he said.
New Zealand originally issued 10-year passports, but the validity period was reduced to five years in 2005 in a move unpopular with travellers. Following public lobbying and petitions, the 10-year passport was reintroduced in November 2015, meaning the first of those are now reaching their expiry date.
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