New Zealand Visa (paper applications) (35x45 mm) Photo Size Requirements and Online Tool

Last Update: August 11, 2026

New Zealand Visa Photo Requirements for Paper Applications

For a New Zealand visa paper application, your photo must meet the size and quality requirements set by Immigration New Zealand.

The standard photo size is 35 mm wide × 45 mm high.

New Zealand Visa Photo Size

For paper applications, use a photo with these dimensions:

Width: 35 mm
Height: 45 mm
Size in centimetres: 3.5 × 4.5 cm
Size in inches: about 1.38 × 1.77 inches
Photo type: Colour
Orientation: Portrait

The photo should be printed at the correct size without stretching or changing the proportions of your face.

Face Position and Expression

Look directly at the camera with your head straight and your face centered in the photo.

Your face should take up about 70% to 80% of the image.

Keep a neutral expression with:

• eyes open and clearly visible;

• mouth closed;

• head facing forward;

• no noticeable head tilt;

• no hair covering important facial features.

The photo should be sharp and clear, with your full face easy to recognise.

Background

Use a plain, neutral background.

There should be no patterns, furniture, doors, curtains, other people or objects visible behind you.

Make sure there is enough contrast between your face, clothing and the background.

Avoid shadows behind your head or across your face.

Lighting

Use even lighting so that both sides of your face are clearly visible.

Avoid: strong shadows, overexposed areas, harsh camera flash, dark areas on the face and red-eye.

Soft indoor lighting or natural daylight usually works well.

Glasses

You can wear prescription glasses as long as your eyes remain clearly visible.

Check that: the lenses are not tinted, there is no glare or reflection, the frames do not cover your eyes, your facial features remain easy to see.

Sunglasses should not be worn.

If your glasses create reflections, it may be easier to remove them for the photo.

Head Coverings

Head coverings should normally be removed unless they are worn for religious or medical reasons.

If you wear a head covering, your face must still be clearly visible. It should not cover your eyes, nose, mouth or the sides of your face.

What to Wear

Normal everyday clothing is fine.

Plain clothing usually works best. Avoid very strong patterns that may distract from your face.

It also helps to wear clothing that contrasts with the background.

Can You Take the Photo at Home?

Yes. You can take your New Zealand visa photo at home if the final photo meets the required size and appearance.

Avoid Beauty Filters

Do not use filters or editing tools that change your appearance.

Avoid anything that changes the shape or size of your eyes, nose, mouth, face or skin features.

Basic cropping and sizing are fine, but your facial appearance should remain natural.

How Many Photos Do You Need?

The number of photos can depend on the visa you are applying for.

Some New Zealand paper visa applications require two recent colour photographs for each applicant.

Check the instructions for your specific visa application before submitting your documents.

Photos for Babies and Children

Children and babies may also need a photo when they are included in a visa application.

The child's face should be clearly visible against a plain background.

No other person should appear in the photo.

For babies, make sure hands, toys, blankets or another person's face do not cover the child's facial features.

New Zealand Visa Photo FAQ

What size is a New Zealand visa photo?

For a paper visa application, the required photo size is 35 mm × 45 mm.

Is 35 × 45 mm the correct New Zealand visa photo size?

Yes. A paper application photo should measure 35 mm wide and 45 mm high.

How recent should the photo be?

Use a recent photo. Some paper visa applications require photos taken within the last six months.

Can I smile in a New Zealand visa photo?

A neutral expression is best. Keep your mouth closed and look directly at the camera.

What background should I use?

Use a plain, neutral background with no patterns, objects or other people visible.

Can I take the photo with my phone?

Yes. A phone camera can be used if the photo is clear, correctly lit and properly cropped. It is better to have someone else take the photo instead of using a selfie.

Source: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/process-to-apply/applying-for-a-visa/applying-online/uploading-documents-and-photos/visa-and-nzeta-photos/

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