Passports shortage

Shortage of passports affects Tongans travelling to NZ

Immigration New Zealand will not accept the Certificates of Identity (COIs) without the holders being able to provide other forms of identification.

New Zealand requires either a New Zealand driver’s license or an expired Tongan passport as supporting identity documents.

Groups such as Recognised Seasonal Employee visa applicants who had planned to travel to New Zealand will need to get supporting letters from the RSE office in Tonga.