Apply for New Zealand Visitor Visa in 2024

Are you considering a journey to New Zealand? If you’re a foreign citizen, especially from a country that requires it, you’ll need to apply for a New Zealand Visitor Visa. It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the essential travel requirements. The New Zealand Tourist/Visitor Visa is crafted to enhance your exploration of this picturesque country, offering a glimpse into the beauty and experiences that await you.

What is the Duration of Stay allowed with a Visitor Visa?

Wondering about the maximum length of stay allowed with a Visitor Visa? You have the flexibility to stay for either 6 months with multiple entries or 9 months with a single entry.

What activities are permitted or restricted on a New Zealand Tourist Visa/Visitor Visa?

New Zealand Visitor Visa does not permit employment during your stay.
You can study for a duration of up to 3 months while holding a Visitor Visa.
Visiting family and friends is allowed on this visa.
You can include your partner and dependent children in your application.

What is the cost of obtaining a Visitor Visa for New Zealand?

Curious about the cost of obtaining a Visitor Visa for New Zealand? The process starts at NZD $211.

How long does it take to process a Visitor Visa application?

Approximately 80% of applications are processed within 5 weeks.

Conditions upon Arrival in New Zealand:

Upon your arrival in New Zealand:

Entry permission is required, and you can complete either a paper arrival card or a digital traveler declaration.
New Zealand Customs and Biosecurity will assess entry requirements.

When can your New Zealand Tourist Visa be refused entry permission?

Under what circumstances can your New Zealand Tourist Visa be refused entry permission? You may face denial if you:

Lack genuine visitor intentions.
Fail to meet character criteria.
Experience a change in circumstances post-visa issuance.
Decline a photo, fingerprints, or iris scan.
Can’t provide evidence of onward travel or required funds.

When can your New Zealand Tourist Visa be refused entry permission?

Documentation and Passport Expiry:

Carry all required documents during travel.
Ensure your passport is not close to expiration; you may face check-in issues.

Special Terms

Duration of Stay:

Multiple Entry Visitor Visa allows a stay of up to 6 months within a 12-month period, subject to eligibility conditions.
Single Entry Visitor Visa permits a one-time entry, allowing a stay of up to 9 months within an 18-month period..

Visa Expiry:

Remember to leave New Zealand before the visa expiration date, which is clearly indicated on the visa label or in the visa letter.

Travel Conditions:

For multiple entries, valid travel conditions are necessary for re-entry to New Zealand.
Multiple entry travel conditions are generally granted when applying within New Zealand.

Onward Travel:

Unless exempt, have a travel ticket to an eligible country or an acceptable sponsor for departure.

Funds and Sponsorship:

Sufficient funds or a sponsor are required to support your stay.

Can you work on a New Zealand Tourist Visa?

Wondering about working or studying on a New Zealand Tourist Visa? Employment is not allowed on this visa. If seeking employment, apply for a Work Visa.

Can you study on a New Zealand Tourist Visa?

You can study for up to 3 months within any 12 months.
School-aged children can study up to 3 months annually; for longer durations, adherence to the ‘Code of Pastoral Care for International Students’ is required.