New Zealand passport photo
New Zealand passport applications use a digital photo in a 3:4 portrait shape, at least 900 × 1200 pixels, as a JPEG between 250 KB and 5 MB. Take a wider shot that includes your shoulders, then let Altols crop it to 3:4 with space around your head.
Head and shoulders, facing the camera, in front of a plain light wall. Your photo stays on your device.
New Zealand passport photo requirements
| Photo size | 3:4 portrait digital photo |
|---|---|
| Head size | Head and top of shoulders, with space around the head |
| Background | Plain, light-coloured, with strong contrast |
| Digital file | 1200 × 1600 px JPEG, 250 KB to 5 MB |
Source: Te Tari Taiwhenua, passports.govt.nz. Checked October 2026.
Before you take the photo
- 900 to 4500 px wide and 1200 to 6000 px high, 3:4 portrait.
- JPEG, 250 KB to 5 MB, in colour.
- Taken by someone else from about 1.5 m. Selfies are rejected.
- Plain light background, at least half a metre behind you.
- No editing, filters or AI tools.
How it works
- Choose a photo. It stays on your device.
- Altols finds your face and crops to 3:4 portrait digital photo with the head at the right size. Adjust it if you like.
- Review the automatic checks and the watermarked preview.
- Pay $4.99 USD once and download the digital file.
Frequently asked questions
Why are selfies rejected?
A camera held at arm's length distorts the face. Ask someone to take the photo from about 1.5 metres with the camera at eye level.
Can I check it before applying?
Yes. The passport website has its own photo checker, and you should run your Altols file through it before you submit.