Wait for new passports increases further

Kiwis are being urged to apply for a passport 10 weeks before it is needed, the Department of Internal Affairs advises.

Last month, the DIA suggested to apply at least eight weeks before the passport is needed.

The extra increase in wait time can be put down to both seasonal demand and upgrades being done to the passport system.

The DIA told 1News the upgrade is the biggest single change to the passport system in more than a decade.

"There are significant benefits to people, and the upgrade means this vital service can continue delivering to New Zealanders into the future."

Although the new system was anticipated to cause some delays, the DIA added it has taken longer for the team to get used to the new platform, resulting in a small backlog.

"Reducing wait times is a priority for the Department. The gap between applications received and applications processed — which causes a backlog — is narrowing because productivity is increasing to match incoming applications."

As of May 1, there are 51,002 passports in progress. In 2023, the average was about 23,000.

More than 9000 applications are waiting on information from the customer, which the DIA said adds time to the processing.

Currently, 54% of all passports are being issued within 15 days. However, the DIA told 1News it is being "cautious" with advising applicants to allow around 10 weeks for processing plus delivery.

"May has historically been a big month for passport applications, which means processing can take longer due to increased demand. This seasonal fluctuation, paired with the changes to the system, have created a short-term backlog that the Department is working to resolve.

"The Department provides the estimated timeframe so that applicants are aware of the time it can take to issue their passport and they can plan accordingly."

As for the backlog, the DIA said it is tackling the issue by having a dedicated team to respond to it, and is running weekend and overtime shifts along with extra support and training for staff.

The DIA also encouraged people to read the full guidance on passport photos which can extend the passport processing time if the photo doesn't meet the requirements.

"General advice is that passport photos must be a portrait image, in colour, and taken within the last 6 months. Selfies are not accepted. Customers can also check their photo against technical requirements with the online photo checker on the passport website."

DIA's general advice to Kiwis for getting their passport in time remains the same:

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