Applying for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) is an important step before travelling to New Zealand. One part that travellers sometimes overlook is the photo. Following the New Zealand ETA Photo Requirements correctly can help you avoid upload errors, delays, or requests for a new photo.
Your NZeTA photo must clearly identify you, look like you, and follow Immigration New Zealand's technical and photo standards. The photo should be recent, unedited, and suitable for identity verification. AI-enhanced or digitally altered photos are not accepted.
In this guide, we explain the New Zealand ETA Photo Requirements, including photo size, file format, face position, background, glasses, selfies, and common mistakes.
What Are the New Zealand ETA Photo Requirements?
The New Zealand ETA Photo Requirements are designed to make sure your face can be clearly identified. Your photo must:
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Be taken within the last 6 months
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Clearly show your face
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Look like you
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Be an original photo, not a photo of another photograph
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Not be digitally altered or enhanced
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Meet the required file size and format
If your photo does not meet the standards, Immigration New Zealand may ask you to provide another photo, which can delay your application.
New Zealand ETA Photo Size and Format
One of the most important New Zealand ETA Photo Requirements is the correct digital file format.
For an online NZeTA application, your photo should:
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Be between 512 KB and 3.14 MB
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Be in JPG or JPEG format
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Be taken in portrait orientation
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Have a 3:4 aspect ratio
These technical requirements are important because an otherwise suitable photo may still fail during upload if the file does not meet the required specifications.
Face Position and Expression Rules
Another key part of the New Zealand ETA Photo Requirements is how your face appears in the image.
Your face should cover approximately 70% to 80% of the image and remain in the centre of the frame. Look directly at the camera with your head straight and maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed.
Keep Your Face Clearly Visible
Your eyes should be open and your face should be in focus. Hair should not cover your face or ears, except where a head covering is worn for religious or medical reasons.
If you wear a head covering for these reasons, it should not cover your mouth or the sides of your face.
Background and Lighting Requirements
Good lighting is an important part of the New Zealand ETA Photo Requirements.
Use a plain, neutral background with no other people or objects visible. Your face and background should be free from shadows, and the image should have good contrast.
Avoid patterned backgrounds and clothing that could make it harder for the system to recognise your face.
Can You Wear Glasses?
Yes, prescription glasses are allowed under the New Zealand ETA Photo Requirements. However, your glasses should be clear rather than tinted, and they must not cover your face or create glare.
Sunglasses are not acceptable. If your glasses cause reflections or make your eyes difficult to see, it is better to remove them for the photo.
Can You Use a Selfie for NZeTA?
A selfie can be used only when applying for an NZeTA through the mobile app and when the app gives you the option to submit a selfie.
For a better result, keep your arm fully extended, hold the phone at approximately eyebrow level, and make sure the light source is behind the phone or camera.
For a smoother application process, you can also start your New Zealand eTA Online process after checking all your photo requirements.
Common New Zealand ETA Photo Mistakes to Avoid
Many applicants make simple mistakes when preparing their photos. Common problems include:
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Uploading an old photo
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Using a blurry image
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Using filters or beauty effects
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Editing facial features
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Using AI to enhance or change the photo
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Choosing a busy background
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Looking away from the camera
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Smiling or opening the mouth
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Wearing sunglasses
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Allowing hair to cover the face
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Uploading the wrong file format or size
Immigration New Zealand specifically warns that AI or other digital editing tools must not be used to manipulate the photo.
New Zealand ETA Photo Requirements Checklist
Before uploading your photo, use this quick checklist:
✓ Photo taken within the last 6 months
✓ JPG or JPEG format
✓ 512 KB–3.14 MB
✓ Portrait orientation
✓ 3:4 aspect ratio
✓ Face centred and clearly visible
✓ Neutral expression and mouth closed
✓ Eyes open
✓ Plain, neutral background
✓ No filters or AI editing
✓ No sunglasses or distracting objects
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What photo format is required for an NZeTA?
The New Zealand ETA Photo Requirements state that online photos should be submitted as JPG or JPEG files.
2. How old can my NZeTA photo be?
Your photo should have been taken within the last 6 months. It should also look like you at the time of application.
3. Can I smile in my NZeTA photo?
It is recommended that you maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed. Avoid smiling or making exaggerated facial expressions.
4. Can I use an AI-edited photo?
No. AI-enhanced or digitally altered photos do not meet the New Zealand ETA Photo Requirements. Such photos may result in delays or the need to provide a new image.
5. Can I wear glasses in my NZeTA photo?
Yes, prescription glasses can be worn, provided they are clear, do not hide your eyes or face, and do not create glare.
6. Can I use a selfie for my NZeTA application?
A selfie can only be used when applying through the NZeTA mobile app if the app provides the selfie option. Immigration New Zealand recommends having someone else take the photo where possible.
Conclusion
Getting your photo right is a small but important part of your NZeTA application. By following the New Zealand ETA Photo Requirements for file size, format, facial position, lighting, background, and image quality, you can reduce the chance of upload problems and processing delays.
Before submitting your application, check your photo carefully and make sure it is recent, clear, natural, and completely unedited. Once your photo meets the requirements, you can continue with your New Zealand eTA Online application and prepare for your trip with greater confidence.