Recent changes to the Oaths and Declarations Act 1957 now mean statutory declarations can be completed via audiovisual (AV) link, following the introduction of section 2A on 27 November 2025. This amendment permanently allows declarations, oaths, and affirmations to be made by video call rather than requiring the witness to be physically present.
This new flexibility is especially helpful for those completing KiwiSaver withdrawal applications, which require a statutory declaration. Applicants overseas, in remote areas, or with limited access to a Justice of the Peace or lawyer can now complete this step far more easily. This change makes life easier for first home buyers, who often need multiple meetings to ensure their finances are in place for a property purchase.
To be valid, the process must meet several requirements:
- The call must use both video and audio (audio‑only is not permitted).
- The declarant must sign the document during the live video call, using wet ink. Electronic signing is not currently allowed.
- A scan or photo of the signed declaration must be sent promptly to the witness for counter‑signing.
If you need assistance completing a statutory declaration by video link, our team can help guide you through the process.
