Published: 15 December 2025
Webfit News Desk
New Zealanders planning overseas travel are being urged to check their passport expiry dates, with more than 1.3 million New Zealand passports expected to expire over the next two years.
The Department of Internal Affairs has warned that a large number of passports issued in 2015 and 2016 are now approaching expiry, which is likely to cause a major surge in renewal applications from 2026 onwards.
Why So Many Passports Are Expiring at Once
In November 2015, New Zealand increased adult passport validity from five years to ten years. As a result, passports renewed during that period are now reaching the end of their validity at the same time.
Government forecasts show a sharp rise in applications as a result.
Expected Passport Renewal Demand
| Year | Estimated Applications |
|---|---|
| 2026 | Around 622,000 |
| 2027 | Around 759,000 |
| Total | Over 1.3 million |
Government Urges Early Renewal
Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden has encouraged people to check their passports now and renew early where possible.
She says renewing ahead of the rush will help avoid delays and reduce pressure on passport services once application numbers increase.
Processing Times Have Improved
The Department of Internal Affairs says passport processing times have improved significantly compared with previous years.
| Year | Average Processing Time |
|---|---|
| 2023 | Up to 25 working days |
| 2025 | Around 3 working days |
Officials have warned, however, that processing times could increase again once application numbers peak.
Why Renewing Early Matters
Many countries require passports to be valid for at least six months beyond the travel date. Airlines may also refuse boarding if passport validity rules are not met.
Renewing early can help avoid:
- Travel delays or cancellations
- Emergency renewal fees
- Missed flights during peak travel periods
How to Renew Your Passport
Most New Zealand passport renewals can be completed online.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Check your passport expiry date |
| 2 | Renew early if expiry is approaching |
| 3 | Allow extra time before travel |
| 4 | Avoid peak travel periods if possible |
Renewals can be completed at www.passport.govt.nz.
What Travellers Should Do Now
Families planning school holiday trips, overseas events, or international travel in 2026 or 2027 are advised to act early. Renewing now could help avoid delays once demand increases.
Conclusion
With more than a million passports set to expire within a short period, checking and renewing your passport early could prevent travel disruption. Officials say acting now is the easiest way to stay ahead of the expected rush.
