A new service for UK passport applications in New Zealand is about to begin.
From Monday 1 February 2010, UK passport applications (new, renewal and replacement) will need to be submitted through your local PostShop. PostShop staff will check your passport application with you, and will then forward it to the British High Commission (BHC) for processing.
If you send your application directly to the BHC after 1 March 2010 it will be returned to you unprocessed - this includes applications made in person at any British Consulate in New Zealand.
Why is this happening?
The BHC is re-organising their passport operation world-wide to make sure the quality of their service is as high as can be. This includes a brand new regional passport processing facility located at the BHC in Wellington. The new centre will ensure passports are delivered consistently, quickly and securely.
Colin Green of the BHC stated, "Annually, nearly 70% of all UK passport applications in New Zealand are delayed as they are received incomplete.”
By having a Postshop staff member go through your application with you, there is less chance of this happening.
PostShops are experienced in ID verification and application processing and currently process Inland Revenue, HANZ 18+ and firearms licensing applications.
How do I apply from 1 February 2010?
You'll need to submit your passport application at any PostShop. Find your local PostShop.
Please ensure you bring in all the documents you've been asked to provide. Visit ukinnewzealand.fco.gov.uk/en/passports and download the correct forms and the fee sheet.
Fill out the applicable forms and bring them to your local PostShop. You will also need to bring with you:
- The current fee sheet
- Completed application form (Adult - C1 and Child - C2)
- Two identical photos that meet British Government requirements (for details, refer to photo guidelines)
- All relevant documentation required per category of application.
Please note: your application will be returned if you do not submit all the required documentation. Visit ukinnewzealand.fco.gov.uk/en/passports for more information.
PostShop stores will also collect fees to cover the cost of each application.
Please note: PostShop staff are unable to answer questions on UK passport eligibility, application status while being processed by the BHC, legal document requirements or countersign applications.
Any questions?
You can call the British High Commission call centre if you have any questions. The call centre can be contacted on:
- 0900 990202
Premium Rate Line (NZ$4.50 per minute). Charged to your local New Zealand telephone account. Calls made on a mobile phone may be subject to additional charges, please check with your mobile phone provider.
- 0044 208 082 4727
Credit Card Line (£0.69p + VAT per minute, excluding the cost of an international call, which is charged to your home telephone account). Please have your credit card ready before calling.
Call centre service times: 8am - 6pm, Monday - Friday (New Zealand local time). Please note this service is only available in New Zealand.
Callers to the call centre will be able to receive real time progress reports on applications and up to date information on applying for a UK passport.
If you have an urgent need to travel within the standard four weeks processing time, please call your nearest British Consulate.