The NZ Ministry of Justice check requires candidates to provide one of the following identity documents.
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| NZ passport | May be expired up to 24 months. |
| Foreign passport | Must be current. |
| NZ driver licence | Front and back required. May be expired up to 24 months. |
| NZ firearms licence | May be expired up to 24 months. |
Name linkage documentation: if any document is held in a different name, for example due to a marriage or legal name change, a supporting linkage document such as a marriage certificate or name change certificate will also be required.
Alternative ID options
If a candidate is unable to meet the standard ID requirements, they can complete one of the following forms instead.
| Form | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Statutory Declaration Form | Must be signed by an authorised person — such as a Justice of the Peace, Court Registrar, or Solicitor. |
| Proof of Identity Form | Used when someone else is vouching for the candidate's identity. The person vouching must: - Not a relative of the candidate. - Not live at the same address. - Be 18 years of age or over. - Have known the candidate for more than 12 months. - Provide the MOJ equivalent ID documents to prove their own identity. |
Frequently asked questions
Can my ID document be expired?
Your NZ passport, NZ driver licence or NZ firearms licence can be expired for up to 24 months and still be accepted. A foreign passport must be current.
My ID document is in a different name (e.g. after marriage) — what should I do?
Upload a supporting linkage document, such as a marriage certificate or legal name change certificate, alongside your ID.
I can't provide any of the standard documents — what are my options?
You can complete a Statutory Declaration Form or a Proof of Identity Form instead. See the Alternative ID options above for details on who can sign or vouch for you.
Who can vouch for me on the Proof of Identity Form?
Someone who isn't a relative, doesn't live at your address, is 18 or over, has known you for more than 12 months, and can provide their own MOJ-equivalent ID.