How to Take New Zealand Baby Passport Photos [Guide]

Do you need a photo for your baby’s New Zealand passport? Look no further—

We collected all the necessary information you need about technical photo requirements, as well as additional guidelines you must follow. Read on to learn how to take the perfect photo for your child’s passport!

How do I take a passport photo of my baby for a NZ passport?

Taking passport photos of children can be challenging, especially if you’re planning to get a travel document for an infant. But worry not—

By the time you finish scrolling, you’ll know exactly what picture you need and how to take one at home!

Step 1: Follow the technical requirements

All biometric photos for official IDs must follow strict government rules, and New Zealand baby passport photos are no different. Thus, the first step in taking your child’s passport photo is to know precisely what technical requirements their image must comply with. 

Have a look at this handy table compiling all of them:

Note #1: Although it’s possible to apply for a NZ baby passport in person at a passport agency, the authorities encourage you to do it online under this link. The standard processing time is estimated at around 5 weeks.

Technical requirements aside, let’s move on to the finer details of baby passport photos. Remember that following all guidelines is crucial to get your child’s photo accepted and avoid unnecessary delays.

Step 2: Mind the additional guidelines

Official passport photo requirements are generally the same as those for adult New Zealand passport photos. However, the authorities know that some of them are difficult to follow when it comes to children. So—

Can your baby have their eyes closed? Or mouth open? Are they allowed to hold onto their favourite toy to stay still? Find all the answers in this section.

• Facial expression. Children should keep a neutral expression with their eyes open and mouths closed. Younger children (e.g., infants under the age of 1) are allowed to have an open mouth and closed eyes
• Pose. Your baby should face the camera directly
• Clothing. Children can wear their normal clothes as long as they don’t cover their faces. It’s best to opt for darker colours that won’t blend with the background
• Head covering. Wearing headgear (baby hats, hair bands, etc.) is strictly prohibited. Only headgear for religious or medical reasons is allowed
• Glasses. Children can wear glasses, but only if you provide a signed medical statement. It’s best to take glasses off
• Hair. Your child’s face must be clearly visible. If their haircut obscures the view, consider tucking the hair behind their ears or tying it up
• Holding toys. Your baby must be the only person in the picture. They’re not allowed to have any additional objects in the frame (e.g., toys). You’re also not allowed to hold your baby for the photo

Step 3: Download a reliable passport photo app

Want to save your baby the stress of going to a photo studio? Good news—you don’t need to! With a smartphone or a digital camera in hand, you can be your baby’s favourite professional photographer from the comfort of the home they know.

Download our pocket photo booth on iOS or Android to effortlessly take a compliant photo for baby passports. Read on to see how!