New Zealand Visa and NZeTA Photo 2026: Size, Background, and App Selfie Requirements

The most important rule of 2026: Immigration New Zealand (INZ) requires the background for visa and NZeTA photos to be light, but not pure white (light grey or cream is recommended). Additionally, selfies are permitted exclusively when applying through the official NZeTA mobile app, and strict positioning rules apply to them.

What has changed and current requirements

Photo requirements depend on how you submit your application: on paper, via the website, or through the NZeTA mobile app. It is also worth remembering that the IVL tourism levy, which is paid alongside the NZeTA or visa, is currently 100 NZD.

Who this applies to

These rules apply to all applicants, including Ukrainians, applying for New Zealand visitor, work, or student visas, as well as those eligible for visa-free entry who are applying for an NZeTA electronic travel authority (e.g., citizens of EU countries, Canada, the USA).

What to do now: how to take a proper selfie for NZeTA

If you are applying through the free NZeTA mobile app (the fee in the app is 17 NZD, on the website — 23 NZD), you can use your smartphone camera for a selfie. To prevent the system from rejecting the photo, follow these steps:

1. Extend your arm: Hold the phone at full arm's length to create sufficient distance between the camera and your face.
2. Correct height: Hold the phone exactly at eyebrow level, do not tilt it up or down.
3. Lighting: The light source should be behind the phone (camera) and illuminate your face evenly, without shadows.
4. Background: Find a light grey or cream wall without patterns or foreign objects.
5. Facial expression: Look straight into the camera, do not smile, keep your eyes open and your mouth closed.

Common mistakes

• Pure white background: The system may reject the photo because a white background often blends with facial features or creates glare.
• Selfies for web applications: Selfies are allowed only in the NZeTA mobile app. For website submissions, the photo must be taken by another person from a distance of 1.5 meters.
• Glasses and headwear: It is forbidden to be photographed wearing glasses with thick frames or tinted lenses. Headwear is permitted only for religious or medical reasons (the edges of the face and hairline must be visible).
• Editing: Using filters or artificial intelligence to enhance the photo is strictly prohibited.

Rules change frequently — before taking action, always check the current requirements on the official government source provided above.