Forms of Identification
Why we need this information
Under the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Finance of Terrorism Act 2009 (AML/CFT Act), we are required to carry out customer due diligence (CDD) before providing certain products or services. This includes identifying and verifying your identity using reliable and independent documents. [legislation.govt.nz], [fma.govt.nz]
The identification we collect depends on your circumstances and assessed risk. For most members, standard customer due diligence applies. [fma.govt.nz]
At least one form of identification must include a photograph, unless otherwise permitted under the AML/CFT Act or applicable guidance. [fma.govt.nz]
Step 1: Identity information and verification
We collect identity information in accordance with sections 15-16 f the AML/CFT Act and verify that information using documents from reliable and independent sources, as set out in the Amended Identity Verification Code of Practice 2013 (AIVCOP). [legislation.govt.nz], [fma.govt.nz]
Adults (18 years and over)
You must provide one of the options:
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Primary Identification |
Secondary Identification |
|
Option 1 – Primary photographic identification |
|
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• Passport (NZ or overseas*) |
Not required |
|
Option 2 – Primary photographic identification plus secondary identification |
|
|
• NZ driver licence |
• SuperGold Card |
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Option 3 – Non‑photographic primary identification plus photographic secondary identification |
|
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• Birth certificate (NZ** or overseas) |
• NZ or Australian driver licence |
These combinations reflect acceptable documentary verification methods under the AIVCOP for members assessed as low to medium risk.[fma.govt.nz]
Youth (12-14 years) and Teens (15-17)
Identity verification for members under 18 is completed in line with DIA supervisory guidance and the AIVCOP, taking into account age and availability of documents. [fma.govt.nz]
|
Primary Identification |
Secondary Identification |
|
Option 1: |
Not required |
|
Option 2: |
• Birth certificate (NZ** or overseas) |
|
Option 3: |
• Parent or guardian ID meeting adult requirements |
Children (0-11 years)
For children, identity verification is completed using the child's identity information together with verification of a parent or legal guardian, as permitted under the AML/CFT Act and Code of Practice. [fma.govt.nz]
|
Primary Identification |
Secondary Identification |
|
• Birth certificate (NZ** or overseas); or |
• Parent or guardian ID meeting adult requirements |
Step 2: Certification and copies of documents
Where documents are not provided in person, we may accept certified copies in accordance with Part 2 of the Amended Identity Verification Code of Practice 2013. [lawsociety.org.nz], [fma.govt.nz]
Certified copies must:
- Be a true copy of the original document
- Be certified by a trusted referee (for example: Lawyer, Justice of the Peace, Registered Medical Doctor, Police Officer, Chartered Accountant, Registered Teacher, Minister of Religion, or Member of Parliament)
- Include the referee's name, occupation, signature and date of certification
We may request additional information or enhanced verification where required by the AML/CFT Act, including where documents are issued overseas or where higher AML/CFT risk is identified. [legislation.govt.nz], [fma.govt.nz]
Important Notes
- *Overseas passports must be accompanied by a valid New Zealand visa or residency status, where applicable to support verification. [fma.govt.nz]
- **Birth certificates must be issued on or after 1 January 1998 or meet current DIA guidance on acceptable certificates. [fma.govt.nz]
Digital (Electronic) Identity Verification
In some circumstances, we can also verify your identity using electronic identify verification, in accordance with the AML/CFT Act and the Amended Identity Verification Code of Practice 2013.
We use GBG Cloudcheck, a secure electronic Identity verification service that allows us to verify your identity remotely using your smartphone. This method is permitted under the Code of Practice where members are assess as low to medium risk, and where the electronic source used is reliable and independent.
How digital identity verification works
If you choose this option:
- Please call us and request digital identity verification and we will send you an SMS or email containing a secure URL link
- Open the link on your smartphone and follow the instructions
- You will be guided to verify your identity using an acceptable form of identification (for example, a passport or driver licence)
The electronic verification process confirms your identity information against reliable electronic sources and includes checks to ensure that you are the person claiming that identity.
Important Notes
- Digital identity verification may not be suitable in all cases
- We may require additional documents or enhanced verification where required under the AML/CFT Act, including where higher money-laundering or terrorism-financing risk is identified, or where electronic verification cannot be successfully completed
- Where digital verification is not appropriate, we will advise you of alternative identification options