New Zealand Visitor Visa Photo Requirements and Guidelines
Preparing a photo for your New Zealand visitor visa application requires careful attention to official rules. You can use the tool above to format your picture correctly before you apply.
Official Size and Submission Options
When you apply for a visitor visa to New Zealand, you must submit a photo that meets specific official standards set by Immigration New Zealand[1]. For paper applications, you need to provide a photo that measures 35 by 45 millimeters[1]. Paper applications require you to submit two identical copies of this printed photo[1].
For an online application, upload one digital photo[1]. The source does not specify who must take the photo.
Background and Lighting Rules
For an online photo, use a plain, neutral background with good contrast and no shadows or objects. The authority does not specify an exact background colour[1].
To achieve this at home, face a bright window during daylight hours to get natural, even light. Stand slightly away from the wall behind you to prevent shadows from appearing in the picture. Keep the camera at eye level about one to one and a half meters away from your face.
Headwear, Glasses, and Facial Expression
Use a neutral expression and keep your mouth closed[1].
Glasses are allowed conditionally. Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons[1].
Digital File Requirements for Online Applications
If you choose to submit your application online, your digital photo file must follow strict technical limits[1]. The image must be saved in JPG or JPEG format with a portrait orientation and a three to four aspect ratio[1].
The file must be between 512 KB and 3,215.36 KB[1]. Check the file size before uploading.
Rules for Children and Infants
The general visa photo standards apply to infants; the source does not specify separate infant dimensions[1].
The official guidance does not give separate infant dimensions[1].
How to Take Your Photo at Home
Taking your photo at home saves time and lets you check your framing before submission. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture using a digital camera or smartphone rather than taking a selfie, which distorts facial proportions. Stand against a plain wall that matches the background rules.
Position the camera straight ahead at your eye level. Check that your entire head and shoulders are visible within the frame. You can use the tool above to crop your image to the correct dimensions and verify your setup before you print or upload.
Preparing and Printing Your Photo
Once your image is cropped to the correct size, you can prepare it for your application method. For online submissions, save your file in the required format and check that it stays within the size limits[1].
If you are submitting a paper application, you can place your cropped 35 by 45 millimeter photo onto a standard four by six inch template sheet. Print this sheet at a local photo kiosk as an ordinary print, then cut out your two required paper copies carefully with scissors[1].
Frequently asked questions
What size photo do I need for a New Zealand visitor visa?
Paper applications require a photo that measures 35 by 45 millimeters[1].
Can I wear glasses in my visa photo?
Glasses are allowed only under conditional rules, meaning they must not create glare and your eyes must remain fully visible[1].
What are the file size limits for online uploads?
The online image file must be between 512 kilobytes and 3215.36 kilobytes[1].
Does Immigration New Zealand require a specific head height?
Head measurements are not specified on the official page[1].
Are there special photo rules for infants?
The published general visa photo standards specify face visibility and expression requirements, and no separate infant dimensions are found[1].