Apply for a child's first passport

Child passports are for children aged 15 and under. They cost $144 and are valid for 5 years. When a child turns 16, their passport is still valid until it expires or is cancelled.

Passport timeframes:

For current passport processing timeframes, visit the passports website.

Passport timeframes

Apply for a child’s first passport

If your child is aged 16 or over:

They must apply for their passport as an adult.

Apply for an adult passport

You can apply for your child's first passport online.

You need:

  • a RealMe login
  • your child's details
  • an identity referee
  • a passport photo
  • a device with internet access and a camera
  • an emergency contact
  • consent from a parent or guardian
  • a payment method
  • delivery details.

Apply for a child passport

If you need to travel urgently

If you need to travel in a hurry you can apply for an urgent passport. It costs $391 and is processed within 3 working days.

Urgent travel

If you’re a New Zealand citizen and you have a child overseas

You can register your child as a New Zealand citizen by descent and get them a New Zealand passport.

Get your child an NZ passport when born overseas

Other ways to apply

The fastest way to apply for your child's passport is online – no paper, postage or visits to the office needed. Paper applications can take longer as they need extra processing.

If you do need to apply by post or in person, go to Paper application forms and download and complete the child passport application form.

Who to contact for more help

If you need more help or have questions about the information or services on this page, contact the following agency.

Utility links and page information

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