Find out what identification and documentation you need apply for an IRD number when you are living or currently overseas.
You'll need all of these:
- photo identification (ID), like a passport
- proof of address, for example, a letter from your utilities company
- tax identification number (TIN) from your country or territory
- proof of reason for applying for IRD number, for example, working here or buying property here
- a fully functioning New Zealand bank account or a Customer due diligence - IR997 form completed by a New Zealand reporting entity.
We might be able to accept different information proving your identity if you:
- are an offshore person
- cannot get any of the documents proving your New Zealand bank account is fully functional.
Child identity documentation – overseas
If you’re applying for an IRD number for a child living overseas, you need to provide 1 of the following forms of identification for your child:
- a form of photo ID
- proof of their current address
- proof of what they intend to do New Zealand
- proof of a fully functional bank account
- TIN (if they have one).
For yourself, you’ll need:
- a form of photo ID
- proof of your current or most recent address.
You’ll also need a to give us proof of your relationship with the child. This can be:
- a birth certificate
- adoption papers
- a Statutory declaration - IR595D or guardianship order.
Translating documents not in English
If your identification (ID) documents are not in English, you must get them translated into English by an approved translator. Your translations should be certified. You can have ID documents translated overseas if you are using 1 of the following:
- a diplomatic representative at a high commission, embassy or consulate
- the authority that issued your ID document.
Otherwise, Waka Kotahi - New Zealand Transport Agency has a full list of approved translators or you can use the Translation Service.
Approved translators (Waka Kotahi - New Zealand Transport Agency)
Translating documents into English (govt.nz information for the Translation Service)