Everything you need to know about New Zealand APEC Business Travel Card photo requirements, including exact dimensions, background colour, pose rules, and how to take a compliant photo at home.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Country | New Zealand |
| Document Type | APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) |
| Photo Size | 35 × 45 mm (3.5 × 4.5 cm) |
| Resolution (DPI) | 600 |
| Head Size | 70–80% of the photograph |
| Background Color | Plain white or light-coloured |
| Printable | Yes — 2 identical photos required |
| Digital for Online Submission | Check with Immigration NZ |
| Digital Photo Size | At least 600 × 750 pixels |
| Photo Paper Type | Matte or glossy |
| Color | Color only |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
The APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) allows New Zealand business travellers visa-free entry to 19 APEC economies. Applications are processed through Immigration New Zealand. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.
The APEC Business Travel Card is a valuable document for New Zealand business people who frequently travel within the Asia-Pacific region. The card provides visa-free business travel to 19 APEC member economies and access to fast-track immigration lanes at participating airports. Applications are submitted through Immigration New Zealand.
Avoid wearing glasses if possible. If you must wear them, ensure there is no glare or reflection on the lenses. Sunglasses and tinted lenses are strictly not permitted. Your eyes must be clearly visible through the lenses with no red-eye effect.
You must provide 2 identical photographs with your APEC Business Travel Card application. Both photos must meet all the requirements listed above.
The APEC Business Travel Card provides visa-free business travel to 19 participating APEC economies:
Source: Immigration New Zealand
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant NZ APEC Business Travel Card photo at home using your smartphone.
Any modern smartphone camera (iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, etc.) is more than capable of taking a passport-quality photo. Make sure the lens is clean and the camera is set to the highest resolution.
Place your phone on a tripod or ask someone to take the photo for you. Selfies tend to have the wrong angle and distortion.
Stand facing a window with natural daylight for the best even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight, which creates harsh shadows. If using indoor lighting, use multiple light sources from different angles to eliminate shadows.
Wear your normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and white tops that blend with the background. If you wear religious head coverings daily, you may keep them on as long as your full face is visible.
Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes or cast shadows on your face.
Stand about 1.5 metres in front of the camera with your head facing directly forward. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your head level — not tilted. Ensure your entire face from chin to forehead is visible.
Keep your face relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes must be open and your mouth must be closed. Do not smile — a neutral expression is required for NZ APEC Business Travel Card photos.
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable APEC Business Travel Card photos
A New Zealand APEC Business Travel Card photo must be 35×45mm. Your head should occupy approximately 70–80% of the photograph.
You need to provide 2 identical photographs with your APEC Business Travel Card application. Both photos must meet all the official requirements.
The background must be plain white or light-coloured, with no patterns, objects, shadows, or other people visible. The background must be uniform and evenly lit throughout.
The photo must be taken within the last 6 months to ensure an accurate likeness. Photos older than 6 months may not be accepted.
The APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) allows visa-free business travel to 19 APEC economies. New Zealand citizens and residents can apply through Immigration New Zealand. The card provides fast-track entry through special APEC lanes at airports.
No. You must maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed and both eyes open. Smiling is not permitted.
You should avoid wearing glasses if possible. If you must wear them, ensure there is no glare or reflection on the lenses. Sunglasses and tinted lenses are not permitted.
You apply for an APEC Business Travel Card through Immigration New Zealand. Visit immigration.govt.nz for application forms, eligibility requirements, and processing details.
