New Zealand changed its glasses policy in 2018, and many applicants are still unaware of the current restrictions. If you're applying for a New Zealand passport, you cannot wear glasses in your passport photo — this is a firm rule with no exceptions for prescription eyewear.
Understanding the current policy and how to handle it will save you from application delays and rejections.
NZ Passport Photo Glasses Ban: The 2018 Policy Change
Before 2018, New Zealand allowed prescription glasses in passport photos. The policy changed to bring New Zealand in line with international standards and improve facial recognition accuracy at border control.
Current policy
- No glasses of any kind permitted
- Prescription glasses not allowed
- Sunglasses not allowed
- Tinted or photochromatic lenses not allowed
- Fashion frames without prescription not allowed
This applies to all New Zealand passport applications, including adult passports, child passports, and emergency travel documents.
Get a compliant passport photo online
Why Did New Zealand Ban Glasses in Passport Photos?
The change was implemented for several important reasons:
Facial recognition accuracy. Glasses can interfere with the automated facial recognition systems used at New Zealand borders. The system needs a clear view of the eye area to make accurate matches.
International standards. Many countries have restricted or banned glasses in passport photos. New Zealand's alignment with these standards improves interoperability with other nations' border systems.
Consistency. Previous policies allowed some glasses-wearers through while rejecting others based on frame style or reflection. A blanket ban eliminates this inconsistency.
Photo quality. Even prescription glasses with anti-reflective coating can create subtle issues that affect automated processing.
What If You Need Glasses to See for NZ Passport Photos?
This is a common concern. The New Zealand Passport Office has addressed this directly:
- You must remove your glasses for the passport photo
- The photo will still be acceptable as long as your eyes are visible and your face is recognizable
- Most people are easily recognizable without their glasses
- The system is designed to identify you based on other facial features
If you have a strong prescription that significantly changes your appearance without glasses, consider:
- Wearing contact lenses for the photo session
- Speaking with the passport office about your specific situation
Prescription Glasses vs Sunglasses in NZ Passport Photos
Both prescription glasses and sunglasses are prohibited. There are no exceptions for:
- Daily prescription glasses
- Prescription sunglasses
- Photochromatic lenses (that darken in sunlight)
- Tinted prescription lenses
- Any form of tinted eyewear
The rule applies uniformly regardless of vision needs.
Tips for Taking NZ Passport Photos Without Glasses
If you normally wear glasses, these tips help ensure your passport photo is accepted:
Blink naturally. Without glasses, you may blink more due to different sensations. Take several photos to catch one with eyes naturally open.
Look directly at the camera. You may have reduced visual clarity without glasses, but look toward the lens anyway.
Check your eyes. Use lubricating drops if your eyes are dry from screen time or contact lens wear. Red or irritated eyes can sometimes cause questions.
See how you look. Review photos of yourself without glasses before the official session so you know what to expect.
Practice ahead. Take some test shots at home to see how you appear without glasses.
NZ Baby and Children's Passport Photos: Glasses Rules
Children who wear glasses must also remove them for passport photos. This can be challenging:
Explain in advance. If your child is old enough, prepare them for the photo session.
Time it well. Take photos when your child is most cooperative (well-rested, not hungry).
Get attention. Use toys, songs, or silly faces to get them to look at the camera with eyes open.
Take many photos. Children blink and move frequently. Plan for multiple attempts.
Consider professional services. Photographers experienced with children's passport photos often achieve better results.
Glasses Rules: New Zealand vs Other Countries
| Country | Glasses | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Zealand | ❌ Banned | Since 2018 |
| Australia | ❌ Banned | Since 2018 |
| United States | ❌ Banned | Since 2016 |
| China | ❌ Banned | |
| Japan | ❌ Banned | |
| France | ❌ Banned | |
| India | ❌ Banned | Since 2020 |
| United Kingdom | ✅ Conditional | Prescription only, no glare |
| Canada | ✅ Conditional | Prescription only, no glare |
| Germany | ✅ Conditional | Prescription only, no glare |
| South Korea | ✅ Conditional | Prescription only, no glare |
New Zealand follows the global majority in banning all glasses. If you hold dual citizenship (NZ-Australian, NZ-British), check each country's rules separately.
What If Your NZ Passport Photo Is Rejected for Glasses?
If you submit a photo with glasses, it will be rejected. The rejection notification will typically say something like:
- "Glasses are not permitted in passport photos"
- "Eyes obscured by eyewear"
- "Please submit a new photo without glasses"
When this happens:
- Remove your glasses
- Take a new photo without glasses
- Upload through your passport application portal
- Wait for processing to continue
The system allows photo replacement without restarting your entire application.
Quick Checklist for NZ Glasses-Free Passport Photos
Before submitting your New Zealand passport photo:
- No glasses worn in the photo
- No sunglasses or tinted lenses
- Both eyes clearly visible and open
- No reflections (there are no lenses to reflect)
- Face centered and facing forward
- Background is white or light grey
- Photo meets 35×45mm requirements
- Expression is neutral
- Head occupies 60-80% of frame
Where to Get Glasses-Free Passport Photos in New Zealand
AA (Automobile Association) offices. Many AA centres offer passport photo services. Available throughout NZ. Cost: NZD $15–20.
PostShop / NZ Post. Some NZ Post locations offer passport photos. Cost: NZD $15–20.
Warehouse Stationery. Photo printing and passport photo services at many locations.
Professional photography studios. Studios in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Hamilton, and other cities. Cost: NZD $15–30.
Photo booths. Automated booths at some malls and shopping centres. Cost: NZD $10–15. Remove glasses before entering.
DIY at home. If taking your own photo:
- White background
- 35×45mm
- No glasses of any kind
- Neutral expression, mouth closed (smiling not allowed)
- Both eyes clearly visible
SmartGate and eGates: Why Glasses-Free NZ Photos Matter
New Zealand uses SmartGate automated border control at Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch airports. These use facial recognition to match your passport photo to your live face. Glasses-free photos produce the best matching accuracy. You'll also need to remove glasses for the live SmartGate scan.
Glasses Rules for New Zealanders Renewing Passports Abroad
If you're renewing your NZ passport from abroad, the same no-glasses rule applies. NZ embassies and high commissions in London, Canberra, Washington DC, and Ottawa all enforce the ban.
Can You Wear Glasses at the NZ Passport Office?
The glasses ban applies only to your passport photo. You can wear glasses at the passport office during your appointment and when completing paperwork.
Tips for Strong Prescription Wearers Getting NZ Photos
If your prescription is strong:
- Contact lenses are available at optometrists throughout New Zealand. Chains like Specsavers NZ and OPSM stock daily disposables.
- The photo takes seconds. Brief discomfort without glasses is negligible.
Do Not Digitally Remove Glasses from NZ Passport Photos
Do not digitally remove glasses from a photo. Always take the photo without glasses from the start.
Verify your photo meets all NZ passport requirements with the passportsize-photo.online checker. For size requirements, see NZ passport photo size guide. View all NZ passport photo rules on the New Zealand hub.
