Sunday Star-Times

Ask an expert

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Q. Hi there, my passport is expiring in September 2017. I was wondering when is the best time to get it renewed? I’m planning to travel throughout next year.

What are the expiry date rules? Should I get it renewed now so I can get a 10-year passport and not have to worry about it?

A. Great to hear you’re planning a year of travel! With the New Zealand passport now valid for 10 years, we recommend getting your passport soon.

You never know when you may need to travel. If you apply for your passport sooner rather than later, you can avoid the Christmas and school-holiday rush.

The new online applicatio­n is very convenient and efficient, with some applicatio­ns processed within just one week.

Passport validity rules differ depending on which country issued your passport and which country you are visiting.

For New Zealand passports, the validity rules differ for each country. Most countries will request you have at least six months left on your passport to be able to enter the country, but it pays to check the entry requiremen­ts for each country.

Some countries require an electronic or paper visa, and knowing what you need for each country is one of the elements of the comprehens­ive travel service the team at House of Travel offer.

We will only be too pleased to help plan an exciting year of travel with you, as the best holidays are created together.

– Andrew Laing, travel consultant, House of Travel Howick

Got a travel question? We can help. Email your name, address, and phone number to travel@stuff.co.nz with Expert in the subject line.

House of Travel is giving away a $100 voucher, redeemable in store, for the best question each month.

 ?? PHOTO: 123RF ?? Avoid the Christmas and school holiday rush by getting in early to renew your passport.
PHOTO: 123RF Avoid the Christmas and school holiday rush by getting in early to renew your passport.

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