New Zealand Anticipates Surge in Passport Renewals Over Next Two Years

New Zealand is bracing for a significant increase in passport renewal applications as many passports issued during the transition to ten-year validity are set to expire. According to the Minister of Internal Affairs, Brooke van Velden, this surge is expected to peak over the next two years, following the anniversary of the switch from five-year to ten-year passports in late 2015.

In November 2015, New Zealand extended the validity of its passports from five years to ten years. As a result, passports renewed in 2015 and 2016 are now nearing their expiration dates. The Department of Internal Affairs anticipates that more than 1.3 million passports will expire within the next two years, leading to heightened demand for renewals.

Van Velden stated, “The Department of Internal Affairs is forecasting a surge in applications due to the anniversary of the ten-year passports.” She urged Kiwis to verify their passport expiration dates and to renew before they encounter potential delays.

Projected Renewal Numbers and Improved Processing Times

The department forecasts that around 622,000 passport applications will be submitted in 2026, followed by an additional 759,000 expiring in 2027. Van Velden emphasized, “If your passport needs renewing soon, so will hundreds of thousands of others.”

To better manage this anticipated increase, the Department of Internal Affairs has implemented significant improvements to its processing times. In 2023, the processing duration for passport applications was reduced from an average of 25 days to just three days for all applications, including non-urgent renewals.

“New Zealanders rightly expect excellent service, and I’m proud that our passport team has delivered exactly that,” van Velden remarked. This enhancement represents a substantial improvement in service delivery that will facilitate travel plans for families across New Zealand.

Encouraging Early Renewals

In light of the projected surge, Van Velden is encouraging individuals with passports expiring in 2026 to consider renewing their documents early. “If your passport expires in 2026, renew now before the rush. Don’t let an expired passport get in the way of your travel,” she advised.

Most individuals can complete their passport renewal online through the secure digital application process available at www.passport.govt.nz. This user-friendly option allows for efficient handling of renewals, further alleviating potential bottlenecks as demand rises.

With travel options expanding and international journeys becoming more accessible, ensuring that passports are valid and up-to-date is crucial for all New Zealanders planning to explore the world.