The Government is investigating whether to extend the life of a passport from five to 10 years.
Earlier this year, a parliamentary select committee recommended the Government review the length a passport remains valid.
The Government has now sought an independent review of passport security and a review of costs under a 10-year system.
Internal Affairs Minister Peter Dunne said he would need some persuading not to recommend the move back to 10 years.
He said the review was to be completed by December, with any changes to be introduced in legislation next year.