Identity referee or witness
When you apply for your passport, you need an identity referee or witness to confirm your identity.
Who can be an identity referee or witness
Your identity referee or witness must:
- be aged 16 or older
- have known you for more than 1 year, or since birth
- have a current or expired New Zealand passport
- be available if we call or email them to verify details about your application — this will help avoid delays.
Your identity referee or witness must not:
- be related to you or part of your extended family (e.g. a cousin, parent, sister or brother)
- be your partner or spouse
- live at the same address as you.
If you can't find a suitable identity referee or witness, contact us.
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