'They think you're committing fraud': Trans refugees in NZ need usable ID

This is about the new self-identification process that the DIA launched last week on the 15th, which makes it easier for people born in New Zealand to amend their registered sex on their birth certificate. They have removed the previous requirements of a trip to the Family Court and proof of medical treatment. It also now allows applicants to amend their registered sex to non-binary.

However, there's still not a solution for those born overseas. The DIA is working on something, but it will likely not apply to asylum seekers until they're accepted as refugees - which often takes many years. In the meantime, the mismatched name issue makes it very difficult for these people to get things like a bank account, an IRD number, a job, benefits, medication, etc. Which puts a lot of roadblocks in the way of these people becoming productive, happy, healthy members of our society.