Identity referee or witness

When you apply for your passport, you need an identity referee or witness to confirm your identity.

Who can be an identity referee or witness

Your identity referee or witness must:

  • be aged 16 or older
  • have known you for more than 1 year, or since birth
  • have a current or expired New Zealand passport
  • be available if we call or email them to verify details about your application — this will help avoid delays.

Your identity referee or witness must not:

  • be related to you or part of your extended family (e.g. a cousin, parent, sister or brother)
  • be your partner or spouse
  • live at the same address as you.

If you can't find a suitable identity referee or witness, contact us.

What is an identity referee?

If you are applying for your passport online or renewing your passport, you need an identity referee.

This person must agree to be your identity referee, and provide their:

  • current or expired passport details
  • full name
  • phone number
  • date of birth
  • home address
  • email address.

Your identity referee does not need to:

  • sign or complete a form
  • sign your photo.

What is a witness?

If you are applying for your first passport by post or in person, you need a witness.

This person must agree to be your witness, and:

  • complete and sign the witness declaration on your application form
  • write your full name, their signature and the date on the back of one of your passport photos.

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