People travelling on a passport from some countries must apply for a Visitor Visa to visit New Zealand. You can stay for up to either 6 months (multiple entry) or 9 months (single entry). You cannot work, but you can study for up to 3 months.
Length of stay: Up to either 6 or 9 months
Tentative Processing time: 80% within 4 weeks
It is recommended that you complete a traveller declaration online before you depart for New Zealand. This will help you to pass through customs more quickly. If arriving by plane, the earliest you can submit your declaration is 24 hours before you start your trip to New Zealand. Your declaration is linked to your passport and is checked when you pass through customs.
To apply for a New Zealand tourist visa, you’ll need to meet the following requirements:
- Identity: Provide proof of your identity, such as a passport
- Health: Be in good health, and you may need to provide a medical exam or chest X-ray
- Character: Be of good character, and you may need to provide a police certificate
- Genuine intentions: Demonstrate that you are a genuine visitor who intends to leave New Zealand at the end of your stay
- Funds: Have enough money to cover your stay, or have an acceptable sponsor
- Travel itinerary: Provide proof of your travel plans, including flight details
- English translations: Provide certified English translations of any documents that are not in English
- Photos: Provide a passport-type photograph taken within the last 6 months
- Health documents: Provide a PCR test or COVID-19 vaccination certificate to avoid self-isolation
- Proof of return: Provide written proof that you have a valid reason to return to your home country
Applications that are missing supporting documents or English translations are more likely to be declined. Making a complete visitor visa application early means you will receive your visa decision sooner, enabling you to spend more time planning your trip to New Zealand.
If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to schedule of appointment for free consultation session with our Immigration Lawyer to assist you.
