Everything you need to know about New Zealand firearms licence 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 | Firearms Licence |
| Photo Size | 35 × 45 mm (3.5 × 4.5 cm) |
| Resolution (DPI) | 600 |
| Head Size | Approximately 65% of the photograph |
| Background Color | Light-coloured (NOT white and NOT dark) |
| Printable | Yes — 2 identical photos required |
| Digital for Online Submission | Check with Te Tari Pureke |
| Digital Photo Size | At least 600 × 750 pixels |
| Photo Paper Type | Matte or glossy |
| Color | Color only |
| Recency | Taken within the last 12 months |
New Zealand firearms licence applications require photographs that meet specific standards set by Te Tari Pureke — the Firearms Safety Authority. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.
When applying for a New Zealand firearms licence, you must provide photographs as part of your application to Te Tari Pureke (the Firearms Safety Authority, formerly part of NZ Police). These photos must meet specific requirements that differ slightly from standard NZ passport photos.
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 firearms licence application. Both photos must meet all the requirements listed above.
The photographs must be taken within the last 12 months. This is notably longer than the 6-month requirement for NZ passport photos. However, it is always best to provide the most recent photo possible to ensure an accurate likeness.
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant NZ firearms licence 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 light-coloured 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 firearms licence photos.
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable firearms licence photos
A New Zealand firearms licence photo must be 35×45mm. Your head should occupy approximately 65% of the photograph, measured from the crown of your head to your chin.
You need to provide 2 identical photographs with your firearms licence application. Both photos must meet all the official requirements including the correct background colour.
The background must be a plain light-coloured background — but specifically NOT white and NOT dark. A light grey, cream, or pastel colour is acceptable. This is different from NZ passport photos which require a white background.
The photo must be taken within the last 12 months. This is longer than the 6-month requirement for NZ passport photos — make sure your firearms licence photo is no older than 12 months.
No. You must maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed and both eyes open. Smiling is not permitted in NZ firearms licence photos.
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.
The main differences are: NZ firearms licence photos require a light-coloured background (NOT white), a 12-month recency window (vs 6 months for passport), head occupies 65% of the photo, and only 2 photos are needed. NZ passports require a white background.
New Zealand firearms licence applications are processed by Te Tari Pureke — the Firearms Safety Authority. You can apply online through their website or contact them for application forms and guidance.
