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This process is designed for people who have recently arrived in New Zealand. 

Save time by using your visa to get an IRD number

If you've arrived in New Zealand, use this process to let us check your identity with Immigration New Zealand.

Applying for an IRD number as a 'new arrival' saves you from sending the same identification documents to us.

Time limit on applications

If you have an Australian passport:

You will not have a visa from Immigration New Zealand, but you'll often have 4 to 6 weeks after you arrive to use this process.

If you hold a visa from Immigration New Zealand:

Your visa from Immigration New Zealand has a final date you must arrive in New Zealand by. It's also the date you must apply for an IRD number by if you want to use this process.

If you wait until after this date, you'll need to apply for an IRD number as 'living in New Zealand'.

Living in New Zealand – IRD number application

Gather your identification documents

If you have an Australian passport, you'll need:

  • your passport details.

If you have a resident visa, you'll need:

If you have a student visa or a work visa, you'll need:

If applying for your child's IRD number

You can apply for an IRD number for your child if:

  • you hold a residency visa that includes your child
  • your child has a student visa and you have a guardianship visa for that child.

If you're a New Zealand citizen applying for your child's IRD number, use our 'Living in New Zealand' process.

Living in New Zealand – IRD number application

What happens next

If approved, you'll receive your IRD number by:

  • text or email in 2 days
  • post within 10 days.

We'll contact you if we need more information to complete your application.

Your responsibilities

Keep your IRD number where you can easily find it. You'll need it for tax-related events in your life.


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Last updated: 05 Oct 2025
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