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This is an HTML version of an attachment to the Official Information request 'A decision was made in 2012 by the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) to make changes to its policy on the issue of NZ Passports – changes that appear contrary to the passports Act 1992.'.
Frequently Asked Questions 
 
Can I apply Online or use the Renewal application form? 
 
No.  As you are changing the details recorded in your passport – you are not 
Released 
eligible to apply Online or use the Adult Renewal form. 
 
Once you have had your passport issued in your new gender identity, then 
you will be eligible to use the Online and Adult Renewal processes in the 
future, as long as your are not changing any further details. 
 
I still have validity remaining on my current passport.  Can this be 
transferred to a new passport in my new gender identity?   
under 
 
No.  Full application fees are payable.  The remaining validity may not be 
transferred to a new passport. 
 
How long do I have to maintain my new gender identity, to be eligible to 
apply for a passport in this gender? 
the 
 
There is no defined timeframe. 
 
Official 
Does the processing timeframe change?  Will it take longer to issue my 
passport? 
 
No.  Standard processing timeframes apply.  When we have all the 
information we need and the correct payment, we will process you application 
within the following timeframes. 
Information 
 
Standard Service - up to 10 working 
Urgent Service – up to 3 working days 
 
What do I need to do to change the gender identity on other documents, 
e.g. driver license? 
 
You will need to contact the relevant agency for advice on how to update their 
records. 
 
Act 
Who can witness and sign the Statutory Declaration? 
 
The Statutory Declaration may be witnessed and signed by 
 
1982
•  A Justice of the Peace 
•  A member of Parliament 
•  A lawyer 
•  A registered Legal Executive (Fellow of NZILE) 
•  A Government Officer authorised to take statutory declarations. 
 
Government Officers are available to witness a Statutory Declaration at the 
following Department of Internal Affairs offices (link to office locations). 
Government Officers are also available at our Sydney and London offices or 
at your nearest New Zealand Embassy or High Commission. 
 
 
 
Released 
under 
the Official 
Information 
Act 1982