You may not be required to obtain a New Zealand visa depending on which country you reside in. Many countries are listed on the visa-free list meaning you aren't required to have a visa if you are a registered citizen of that country. The United States is on this list. For citizens from countries not on the list, you will need a visa to visit New Zealand.
A transit visa is required for individuals traveling through New Zealand. If your flight is stopping at a New Zealand airport in-transit to another country, you will need a transit visa. You are required to have one if you are staying for more than twenty-four hours on a layover flight and not leaving the transit terminal of the airport.
To Obtain a New Zealand Visa
- Submit a Visitor's Visa/Permit Application form INZ 1017
- Answer all questions fully and truthfully. Falsified answers will result in an automatic denial of visa application.
- Meet all eligibility requirements.
- Do not have a criminal background
- Have a valid passport that is valid for at least three months beyond your stay in New Zealand.
Additionally, you will need to submit proof that you intend to leave the country by providing suitable documentation. Travel tickets departing New Zealand or written confirmation from a travel agent is acceptable proof.
You must also show proof of being financially stable while traveling including cash and credit card value. Travelers Checks and bank draft values are also counted. A complete guide to the evidence of funds section is listed on the New Zealand Immigration website.
A fee is required with the completed application. A full list of fees based on your country of residence can be found on the New Zealand Immigration website.
If you plan to be in New Zealand for more than six months you must provide medical documentation; the Temporary Entry/X-Ray Certificate form NZIS 1096 However, if you will be staying more than one year, you will need to provide a Medical and X-Ray Certificate. Pregnant women and children under eleven are not required to submit these documents. The application supplies a full list of exemptions for medical information requirements.
Get a visa for New Zealand the quick and easy way.
Applications can be accepted locally at the New Zealand Immigration office. All other applications must be approved before traveling to New Zealand. A complete mailing directory is listed on the New Zealand Department of Labor website. You are required to mail the application to a processing center designated for your country of residence.
A visa for New Zealand is valid for nine months from the issue date. An additional three-month stay could be granted if you have proven to be financially stable without employment or sponsorship.
Because the New Zealand Government limits extended trips, policy says that an individual can stay nine months out of an eighteen-month period. If you are granted the additional three-month New Zealand visa, the waiting time is extended to twelve months.
Visit often to learn more information from our updated New Zealand Visa.
