If your New Zealand passport is running low on blank pages—or worse, expired before a trip—things move fast. This guide cuts straight to the official NZ passport application form PDFs you need, whether you’re renewing as an adult, applying for your child, or handling a first-time application.

Adult Renewal Form Size: 2.8MB ·
Child Application Form Size: 3.2MB ·
Adult New Form Date: 01 July 2025 (PAS310) ·
Paper Forms Page: passports.govt.nz/forms ·
Child Form Age Limit: 15 and under

Quick snapshot

1Confirmed facts
2What’s unclear
  • Paper application fees not explicitly listed on the official site—online standard rates likely apply, but confirm before submitting
  • Specific mailing addresses for paper applications not detailed in current official guidance
  • After-hours callout fees based on older secondary source data (NZD$775 adult, NZD$695 child)
3Timeline signal
  • Adult renewal form PAS300: 01 July 2025 (New Zealand Passports)
  • Adult general form PAS310: 01 July 2025 (New Zealand Passports)
  • Child form PAS305: 20 February 2026 (New Zealand Passports)
4What’s next
  • Identify which form matches your situation (renewal, new, or child)
  • Download from passports.govt.nz/forms—forms are free to access
  • Choose online or paper submission based on urgency and preference

These are the core data points driving the New Zealand passport paper application process.

Label Value
Primary Download Site www.passports.govt.nz/forms
Adult Renewal PDF 2.8MB
Child PDF 3.2MB (15 and under)
Adult New Form PAS310 v2.pdf
Paper Application Guide cab.org.nz/KB00039497

How can I download a passport application form online?

All official New Zealand passport paper application forms live on the passports.govt.nz forms page. The site groups forms into three clear categories: adult renewal, adult general (first-time or name change), and child applications. Each form is available as a free PDF download—no account or login required.

Adult renewal passport application PDF

The adult renewal form (PAS300, 2.8MB) applies to applicants aged 16 and over who are renewing an existing passport with an unchanged name and no loss, theft, or damage to report. The current version carries a 01 July 2025 date stamp. To use this form, you must also secure an identity referee who is at least 16 years old, holds a valid New Zealand passport, has known you for more than one year, and is not a relative.

  • Download from passports.govt.nz — Adult Renewal Form (PAS300)
  • Requires 2 identical colour photos taken within the last 6 months
  • Write your full name and date on the back of one photo—do not staple or paperclip photos to the form
  • Fill in your own handwriting where possible

Child passport paper application form

The child passport application (PAS305, 3.2MB) covers applicants aged 15 and under. A parent or guardian must provide consent, and the child must have previously held a New Zealand passport if applying online. The paper form carries the most recent update date of 20 February 2026. Child passports are valid for 5 years from the date of issue.

  • Download from passports.govt.nz — Child Application Form (PAS305)
  • Requires parental or guardian signature
  • Two supporting documents typically needed (check current requirements)
  • When the child turns 16, they keep the existing passport until expiry, then switch to adult renewal

Citizenship by descent and passport form

If you acquired New Zealand citizenship by descent and need your first NZ passport, the adult general form (PAS310) covers this scenario. The form is also used for name changes, lost or stolen passports, and damaged passports. The PAS310 version is dated 01 July 2025 and runs approximately 3.2MB.

  • Download from passports.govt.nz — Adult General Form (PAS310)
  • Complete all relevant sections including the statutory declaration in section 8
  • Ensure all questions applicable to your situation are answered fully
Bottom line: The New Zealand Passports Office hosts all current paper forms at passports.govt.nz/forms. Download the correct version for your situation—the adult renewal, adult general, or child form—and verify the date stamp matches the latest update before starting your application.

What do you need to get a NZ passport?

Every passport application—whether online or on paper—requires identity verification, photos, and an identity referee. The specifics differ slightly between adult and child applications, and between paper and digital submissions.

Documents for adult passport

Adult applicants (aged 16 and over) need to confirm their identity using an existing valid or recently expired New Zealand passport. For paper applications, two identical colour photographs taken within the last 6 months are mandatory. One photo must have your full name and the date written on the back.

  • Current or recently expired New Zealand passport for identity
  • 2 identical colour passport photos (less than 6 months old)
  • Completed and signed application form (PAS300 for renewal, PAS310 for new applications)
  • Identity referee details (someone who has known you for more than one year, is not a relative, and holds a valid NZ passport)

Supporting documents required

The official guidance emphasises that all questions on the paper form relating to you must be answered. Incomplete forms cause delays. The statutory declaration in section 8 of the adult forms requires your honest account of any relevant circumstances—answer truthfully and completely.

  • Statutory declaration section (section 8) completed in full
  • Two supporting identity documents if your existing passport cannot establish identity
  • Proof of name change documentation if applicable (marriage certificate, deed poll, etc.)

Three key documents checklist

The New Zealand Passports Office distilled paper application requirements into three essentials: your identity passport, your photos, and your referee’s details. Get those three components right, and your application has a clean path through processing.

  • Your current or expired NZ passport (identity verification)
  • 2 identical recent colour photos (with name and date on back of one)
  • Identity referee information (name, passport number, contact details)
Why this matters

Paper applications take longer than online because the office processes physical documents manually. The New Zealand Passports Office confirms that online applications are fastest—no printing, no postage, no manual handling. If time is a factor, online is worth the setup effort.

How much is a NZ passport now?

New Zealand passport fees are set by the Passports Office and updated periodically. Standard and urgent processing options exist for both adult and child passports, with prices listed for online applications on the official site.

Adult passport costs

Standard online adult passport applications cost NZD$247, covering the 10-year validity period from the date of issue. Urgent processing brings the fee to NZD$494 for the same validity. Paper application fees align with standard online rates, though the official site does not explicitly list separate paper pricing.

  • Standard adult passport (online): NZD$247 — New Zealand Passports
  • Urgent adult passport (online): NZD$494 — New Zealand Passports
  • Validity: 10 years from date of issue — govt.nz

Child passport fees

Child passport applications (for those aged 15 and under) cost NZD$144 for standard processing and NZD$391 for urgent processing. The shorter validity period of 5 years keeps the standard cost lower than the adult rate. Child passports issued to applicants aged 15 and under are valid for 5 years from the date of issue.

  • Standard child passport (online): NZD$144 — New Zealand Passports
  • Urgent child passport (online): NZD$391 — New Zealand Passports
  • Validity: 5 years from date of issue — govt.nz

Renewal pricing

Renewal pricing follows the same fee structure as new applications—the applicant’s age determines cost, not whether they have held a passport before. The online renewal path (using RealMe) applies the standard NZD$247 fee for adults. Overseas applicants may face additional delivery charges depending on the destination.

  • Adult renewal (online, RealMe): NZD$247
  • Overseas delivery may add costs — Wise
  • Payment options for paper: credit/debit card, money order, or EFTPOS in person
The catch

Paper application fees are not explicitly published on the official site. The safest approach: check the passports.govt.nz fee page before mailing your application, or budget for the standard online rate (NZD$247 adult, NZD$144 child) and expect to pay that amount.

Do I need to print a passport application form?

The New Zealand Passports Office has prioritised online applications in recent years, but paper forms remain available for those who need them. The choice between digital and physical submission depends on your situation, comfort level with online processes, and how quickly you need your passport.

Paper vs online options

Online applications require a RealMe login—the government’s secure identity verification system. The New Zealand Passports Office confirms that online applications are the fastest route: no printing, no postage, no manual handling by office staff. Paper applications involve printing the form, completing it by hand, attaching photos, and mailing everything to the Passport Office or dropping it off in person.

  • Online: RealMe login, passport photo upload, identity referee details, payment card
  • Paper: Download PDF, print, complete by hand, attach photos, submit by mail or in person
  • RealMe login can be created during the online application if you do not already have one

Printing and submission steps

If you choose the paper route, download the relevant form from passports.govt.nz/forms, print it at home or at a print shop, and complete it in your own handwriting. Attach two identical colour photos, complete the referee section, and sign where required. The form directs you to mail it to the Passport Office or visit a Passport Office in person.

  • Download form from passports.govt.nz/forms
  • Print using black ink on white A4 paper (photocopier-style, not photo printing)
  • Complete in your own handwriting, answer all applicable questions
  • Attach photos without staples or clips
  • Submit by mail or at a Passport Office counter

When paper forms are required

Paper applications suit situations where online access is limited, where the applicant cannot create a RealMe account, or where specific circumstances require a physical form (such as certain name changes or citizenship-by-descent cases). First-time applicants who do not have an existing digital identity record may find the paper route more straightforward initially.

  • First-time applicants without existing NZ passport records
  • Applicants without reliable internet access or device for online application
  • Complex cases involving name changes, citizenship status changes
  • Those who prefer physical documentation and postal tracking
What to watch

Paper applications take longer—standard processing is listed at up to 10 business days plus delivery time. If you need your passport within a month of travel, the online route is significantly less risky. Apply early regardless of the method.

What you need for your application?

Whether online or on paper, passport applications demand the same core elements: identity proof, photos, and a referee’s verification. The format differs, but the requirements are consistent across both submission methods.

Adult vs child requirements

Adult applicants (16 and over) use their own existing passport as primary identity proof and can act independently on the form. Child applicants (15 and under) require a parent or guardian to consent and sign on their behalf. Children who have previously held a New Zealand passport can apply online for renewal; those without a prior passport may need the paper route.

  • Adult: Own NZ passport for identity, independent signature, identity referee
  • Child: Parental/guardian consent and signature, parent’s identity verification, identity referee for the child
  • Age threshold: Adult = 16 and over; Child = 15 and under

Renewal specific needs

Renewing an existing passport is the most streamlined scenario—your previous passport establishes your identity, and you do not need to resubmit citizenship documentation. The adult renewal form (PAS300) is designed specifically for holders of existing passports who have not changed their name and have no loss, theft, or damage to report.

  • Current or recently expired NZ passport
  • 2 new passport photos (taken within 6 months)
  • Identity referee with valid NZ passport who has known you for 1+ year
  • Completed PAS300 form for adult renewals

Supporting docs overview

Beyond the core requirements, supporting documents may be needed for specific situations: name change documentation (marriage certificate, deed poll), citizenship documentation for first-time applicants, or proof of address if your current passport details are out of date. The New Zealand Passports Office advises checking all questions on the form that apply to your circumstances.

  • Name change: marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate, deed poll
  • First-time: citizenship certificate or descent registration
  • Address mismatch: utility bill or other official document showing current address

How to download and submit your NZ passport form

The process breaks into two phases: downloading and completing the right form, then deciding on and executing your submission method. Here is the step-by-step for both paper and online routes.

  1. Identify your form type: Adult renewal (PAS300), adult general/first-time (PAS310), or child (PAS305) — check your age and whether you are renewing or applying new.
  2. Visit the official forms page: Go to passports.govt.nz/paper-application-forms to download the relevant PDF. All forms are free.
  3. Check the form date: Verify you have the current version—the adult renewal (PAS300) and adult general (PAS310) are dated 01 July 2025; the child form (PAS305) is dated 20 February 2026.
  4. Read the instructions: Each form includes guidance on photos, referee requirements, and which sections to complete. Do not skip the instructions.
  5. Arrange your photos: Two identical colour photos, taken within the last 6 months. Write your full name and the date on the back of one photo.
  6. Secure your identity referee: Find someone aged 16 or over with a valid NZ passport who has known you for more than one year and is not a relative. Their passport details go on the form.
  7. Complete the form: Fill it in your own handwriting. Answer all questions that apply to your situation. Sign where required.
  8. Choose your submission method: For online, create or use your RealMe login at dia.services.govt.nz and follow the digital prompts. For paper, print and mail or deliver in person.
  9. Track your application: Once submitted, keep your application number—you will need it to check status or contact the helpline with queries.

Confirmed facts

  • Forms hosted on passports.govt.nz (tier1 source)
  • Adult renewal form PAS300 dated 01 July 2025 (tier1 source)
  • Child form PAS305 dated 20 February 2026 (tier1 source)
  • Standard adult online passport costs NZD$247 (tier1 source)
  • Standard child online passport costs NZD$144 (tier1 source)
  • Online applications are faster than paper (tier1 source)
  • Adult passports valid for 10 years; child passports valid for 5 years (tier1 source)

What’s unclear

  • Exact paper application fees not explicitly published on official site
  • Specific mailing addresses for paper applications not detailed in current guidance
  • After-hours callout fees (older secondary data: NZD$775 adult, NZD$695 child)
  • Photo size and background colour specifications beyond “colour” and “6 months old”
  • Helpline phone numbers not listed in official form documents
  • Standard processing time (10 business days) sourced from tier2; may not reflect current official target

What officials say

The easiest and fastest way to renew your passport is online. Paper applications take longer as they require extra processing.

— New Zealand Passports Office (Official Form Guidance)

Adult passports are valid for 10 years. Child passports are valid for 5 years.

govt.nz (Government Portal)

Apply online to get or renew a passport for yourself or your child.

— govt.nz (Government Portal)

RealMe login can be created during the online application if you do not already have one.

Wise (Passport Renewal Guide)

For New Zealand residents holding a current or recently expired passport, the decision between online and paper comes down to urgency and preference: online gets the job done fastest, while paper suits those who want physical records or lack RealMe access. The official forms are free to download, the fees are reasonable, and the processing standards are consistent whether you type or write by hand.

Those who file online typically receive their passport within the standard processing window, making digital submission the most reliable path for travellers with upcoming trips.

Related reading: Partner Resident Visa NZ · Book Driving Test NZ

When preparing your NZ passport application form PDF, first validate photos using the official NZ passport photo checker to ensure compliance and speed up processing.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a fully online NZ passport application?

Yes. New Zealand citizens aged 16 and over with an existing passport can apply entirely online through the RealMe system at dia.services.govt.nz. The process covers photo upload, identity referee entry, and payment without needing to print or mail anything. Children who have previously held a NZ passport can also renew online.

Can I renew my NZ passport without a paper form?

Yes, if you meet the eligibility criteria. Online renewal through RealMe is available for adults (16+) who hold an existing or recently expired passport, even if it is expired. You do not need to print anything. The paper form is the alternative for those who cannot or prefer not to apply online.

What if I lose my NZ passport application form?

If you lose the printed form, simply download a fresh copy from passports.govt.nz/forms. Forms are free and available at any time. If you have already started filling one in and it goes missing, there is no penalty for starting over—just make sure you use the current version with the correct date stamp.

Are NZ passport forms free to download?

Yes. All official New Zealand passport paper application forms are free to download from passports.govt.nz/forms. There is no charge for accessing the PDF files, regardless of which form type you need.

What ID is needed with NZ passport form?

For adult applicants, your primary identity document is your current or recently expired New Zealand passport. For paper applications, you also need two identical colour photos taken within the last 6 months, plus an identity referee who holds a valid NZ passport and has known you for more than one year. If you cannot use an existing passport for identity, two supporting documents may be required.

Can I email the NZ passport application PDF?

No. The passport application process requires either online submission through the RealMe portal or physical submission by mail or in-person delivery. Emailed forms are not accepted. If you have downloaded the PDF but cannot complete it digitally, print it, fill it by hand, and submit it through the official paper process.

How does online vs paper submission compare for processing speed?

Online applications are substantially faster. The New Zealand Passports Office explicitly states that online is the easiest and fastest way to renew your passport. Paper applications require manual processing, which adds time to the standard 10 business day window. If you have travel within a month, online is the safer choice.