Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden is warning New Zealanders to check their passport expiry dates this summer with more than a million renewals looming over the next two years.
The Department of Internal Affairs expects a surge in applications as the first wave of 10-year passports approaches expiry. The validity period changed from five to 10 years in late 2015, meaning those renewed in 2015 and 2016 are now nearing their expiry dates.
"The Department is forecasting a surge in applications due to the anniversary of the ten-year passports. I encourage you all to ensure yours is up to date before you will need it," van Velden said.
More than 1.3 million passports are coming up for expiry in the next two years, with around 622,000 applications expected in 2026, and 759,000 in 2027.
Van Velden said passport processing times had dramatically improved, from 25 days in 2023 to three days now, but warned the sheer volume could lead to delays.
"New Zealanders rightly expect excellent service, and I'm proud that our passport team has delivered exactly that. If your passport expires in 2026, renew now before the rush. Don’t let an expired passport get in the way of your travel," she said.
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.
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.
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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