COVID-19 update: At alert Level 4, please only apply for a passport if you require it for urgent travel or identity purposes. If you are applying for an urgent passport, apply online.
To renew or apply for a passport you need someone to confirm your identity.
Witnesses and identity referees are used to verify your identity as part of your passport application.
An identity referee is required if you are renewing your Adult or Child’s passport online, or completing our Adult Renewal paper form.
A witness is required if you are applying on paper using the Adult or Child form. You will also need a witness for a Certificate of Identity or Refugee Travel Document.
Who can be a witness or identity referee?
A person:
who is 16 years or older
has known you for more than one year, or since birth for a child under 12 months
has a valid New Zealand passport (this can be current or expired, but not lost, stolen or damaged)
is prepared to give personal details like their name, date of birth, passport number and
is contactable
They must not be:
related to you e.g. a cousin, parent, sister or brother
your partner or spouse
part of your extended family group
living at the same address
What does an identity referee need to do?
The identity referee must agree to be your referee, and provide their:
current passport details
full name
phone number
date of birth
email address (optional)
Your identity referee does not need to sign or complete a form, or sign your photo.
What does a witness need to do?
The witness needs to complete and sign the witness declaration that is part of your application form.
The witness must also write your full name, their signature and the date on the back of one of your photos.
