Passport Wait Times Halved After Software Upgrade, Significant Drop in Application Queue

Ms. van Velden highlights the significant nature of the March software upgrade, the most substantial in over a decade, and praises its impact on improving the online application process.

Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden has announced a dramatic improvement in passport processing times following an upgrade to the Department of Internal Affairs' passport processing software. Since the upgrade in March, which initially caused delays, the passport application queue has decreased by over 57 percent. As of August 6, the number of pending applications has dropped to 31,000 from a peak of 53,847 in early May, with wait times now halved.

In July alone, the Department issued 50,397 passports, surpassing the number of new applications by over 10,700. Notably, 83 percent of these passports were processed within six weeks, and 91 percent of the applications were submitted online. Additionally, 32 percent of the passports issued were part of group applications.

Ms. van Velden highlights the significant nature of the March software upgrade, the most substantial in over a decade, and praises its impact on improving the online application process. “I’m pleased that Kiwis now have easier access to online passport services,” she says.

The Department is currently advising applicants to expect up to five weeks plus delivery for a standard passport, a marked improvement from the 10-week wait reported in May. This timeframe is provided to help customers plan accordingly, though most passports are being issued faster.

“Reducing passport processing times remains a top priority for the Department,” Ms. van Velden affirms, noting that officials are actively working to further decrease wait times and meet future goals.