Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden is urging New Zealanders to check their passport expiry dates this summer, warning of a sharp rise in renewal applications expected over the next two years.
The surge is linked to the 2015 change that extended passport validity from five to 10 years, meaning many passports issued in 2015 and 2016 are now nearing expiry.
The Department of Internal Affairs is forecasting that more than 1.3 million passports will expire across 2026 and 2027, with around 622,000 renewal applications expected in 2026 alone and a further 759,000 passports due to expire the following year.
Van Velden said this volume could create significant pressure if people leave renewals until the last minute.
She said recent operational improvements have significantly reduced processing times, with standard passport applications now taking just three days, down from 25 days in 2023.
The minister encouraged travellers whose passports expire in 2026 to renew early to avoid delays during peak demand. She warned that failing to check expiry dates could disrupt overseas travel plans, particularly as many countries require passports to be valid for at least six months beyond the intended travel date.
I thought these were for Life
Like the drivers licenses?
Renewing the so called passport, if you have lost the old expired one is an absolute shit show. This BS about it being “easier than you think”, is just that. I was on the phone for 3 hours and this is at least 18 months ago and could not get through to anyone. More muppetry for the globalist misfits who somehow keep getting elected.
Oh and the surge is no doubt down to the thirty thousand Kiwis who keep leaving each and every month.
Then why not resource that department? You know, instead of getting rid of them all like you did.
I don’t know why so many commentators have so much trouble. ..!!
I renewed my valid 10 year passport early (March 2025) After explaining the reason was because I was going overseas for an extended period and the countries that I visit require a 6 months validity from the date of entry, my existing passport would be useless by mid September 2025. I received my new passport within 3 days. No problems.