NEW ZEALAND OVERSEAS DOCUMENTS GUIDE
Quick answer: New Zealand offers both a paper apostille and an electronic apostille, usually called an e-apostille. A paper apostille is physically attached to your documents, while an e-apostille is supplied as a secure PDF by email. Before choosing, ask the overseas organisation which format it will accept.
What is an e-apostille in New Zealand?
An e-apostille is the electronic version of a New Zealand apostille. The Department of Internal Affairs Authentication Unit issues it as a secure PDF and emails it to the applicant.
It performs the same core apostille function: confirming the authenticity of the relevant signature, stamp or seal on a New Zealand document for use in an apostille country. The important practical difference is the format and delivery method.
Paper apostille vs e-apostille
| Feature | Paper apostille | E-apostille |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Physical apostille certificate attached to the documents | Secure PDF |
| Delivery | Physical documents are returned to the address provided | Emailed to the applicant |
| Presentation | Documents and apostille certificate are tied together with ribbon and receive an official embossed seal | Electronic document package for digital use |
| Government apostille fee | NZ$37 for one certificate | NZ$37 for one certificate |
| Standard processing | Within 15 working days | Within 15 working days |
| Best choice | When the receiving organisation asks for physical originals or a paper apostille | When the receiving organisation confirms it accepts an electronic apostille |
Which one should you choose?
Do not choose solely because one format seems more convenient. The New Zealand Government specifically advises applicants to ask the overseas organisation which type of apostille it wants.
This matters because the receiving authority may have its own document rules. Some organisations accept e-apostilles, while others may want a paper apostille or physical original documents. For the wider overseas-document pathway, see Documents for Overseas Use.
How is a paper apostille prepared?
For a paper apostille, the Authentication Unit places an apostille certificate as a covering page on the documents. The documents are tied together with ribbon and receive an official embossed seal. The physical package is then returned according to the delivery details on the application.
How is an e-apostille delivered?
An e-apostille is a secure PDF. It is emailed to the applicant rather than being returned as a physical apostille package.
Does an e-apostille cost more?
No separate higher government apostille fee currently applies simply because you choose the electronic format. The current Department of Internal Affairs fee is NZ$37 for one apostille certificate, paper or electronic.
NZ Document Assist's apostille coordination service is separate from government and third-party charges. Our apostille coordination starts from NZ$89 plus government and other external fees.
How long does an e-apostille take?
The current standard processing timeframe for apostille applications is within 15 working days.
An urgent service is available for eligible apostille and e-apostille applications and is currently processed within 5 working days. The government urgent-service fee is NZ$120 in addition to the normal application fee.
To qualify for urgent processing, the application must be complete and correct, include all required documents, and must not require translation.
Does an apostille go to MFAT?
No. New Zealand apostilles do not need to go to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade for checking. That is one difference between an apostille and some authentication processes.
If you are unsure whether your destination requires an apostille or authentication, see our Apostille vs Authentication NZ guide.
Can every New Zealand document get an e-apostille?
The first question is whether the document is eligible for the apostille process and meets the Authentication Unit's document requirements. Depending on the document, you may need an original, an acceptable copy, notarisation or other preparation before the apostille can be issued. If certification is part of the preparation, see Who Can Certify Documents in NZ?.
Our NZ Apostille Requirements guide explains the broader process, while our birth certificate apostille guide covers New Zealand birth certificates specifically. For degrees, diplomas and transcripts, see our Apostille Education Documents NZ guide. For Family Court divorce or dissolution papers, see our Apostille Divorce or Dissolution Papers NZ guide. For official New Zealand marriage certificates, see our Apostille Marriage Certificate NZ guide.
When a paper apostille may make more sense
- The overseas organisation specifically asks for a paper apostille.
- You must submit the original physical document.
- The receiving authority wants the apostille physically attached to the documents.
- You are sending a complete physical document package overseas.
If physical document return or international delivery is part of your case, see our Courier & Document Return service.
When an e-apostille may make more sense
- The overseas organisation confirms it accepts an electronic apostille.
- The document is being submitted through an online portal.
- You need to forward the apostilled document electronically.
- You want to avoid unnecessary physical delivery of the apostille itself.
Before you apply: 4 checks
- Confirm the destination country. This determines whether apostille or authentication applies.
- Ask the receiving organisation. Confirm whether it wants paper or electronic apostille.
- Check the document requirements. Make sure the document is in the correct form before submission.
- Choose the appropriate delivery route. Consider whether original documents need to be returned physically even if an e-apostille is requested.
Need help coordinating your apostille?
NZ Document Assist can help with the administrative side of preparing and coordinating your New Zealand document for overseas use. We can help check the process, organise the application, coordinate notary or translation steps where required, and manage document return logistics. You can also see How It Works for the full coordination process.
View Apostille Coordination Ask About Your Document
Frequently asked questions
Is an e-apostille the same as an apostille?
It is the electronic format of a New Zealand apostille. Instead of a physical apostille package, the e-apostille is provided as a secure PDF by email.
Is an e-apostille accepted everywhere?
You should not assume that. Ask the overseas organisation receiving your document whether it accepts an e-apostille or requires a paper apostille.
How much is an e-apostille in New Zealand?
The current government fee is NZ$37 for one apostille certificate, whether paper or electronic. Other costs may apply depending on document preparation, translation, notarisation, courier requirements or assistance services.
Can I get an urgent e-apostille?
Yes, if the application meets the current urgent-service eligibility requirements. Eligible applications are processed within 5 working days and the current urgent-service fee is NZ$120 in addition to the standard fee.
Will the e-apostille be posted to me?
No. The e-apostille itself is emailed to the applicant as a secure PDF. Physical original documents may still need separate return arrangements depending on the application.