Getting a Visitor Visa for New Zealand

Hey there! Planning a trip down under to New Zealand? Awesome! Before you pack your bags, you'll need to get a visitor visa if you're not from a visa-waiver country. Applying for a NZ visitor visa may seem complicated, but don't worry - I'm here to break it all down for you in simple terms.

Overview of Visitor Visas

There are two main types of visitor visas for entering New Zealand temporarily:

General Visitor Visa

This lets you visit for up to 9 months and is suitable for tourism, seeing family/friends, short-term study, business travel, transit, and more. 

Limited Visitor Visa

This is for specific purposes only for up to 3 months. Examples include medical treatment, conferences, sports events, etc.

Eligibility Requirements

• To be eligible for both visas, you must:
• Hold a ticket to leave NZ before visa expiry 
• Have enough money to support yourself 
• Be of good health and character
• Not be barred from entering NZ 

Other conditions may apply based on your country. Check requirements

How to Apply

You can choose to apply online or on paper:

Online Application

Fastest and easiest option. You upload documents and pay the fee online. Recommended for most people.

Paper Application 

Download the form and courier it with documents to an Immigration NZ office. Better if you need to provide statutory declarations.

Application Requirements

• For both online and paper applications you need:
• Completed/signed application form 
• Valid passport 
• Passport photo  
• Travel itinerary
• Proof of funds
• Any other requested documents

Provide as much info upfront to speed up processing!

Visa Conditions 

Visitor visas allow you to enter NZ but have some conditions:

Length of Stay 

You can only stay for the duration given on your visa, usually up to 9 months maximum. 

Working in NZ

You are not allowed to work or study full-time on a visitor visa. 

Bringing Family

You can bring immediate family members on your visa.

Visa Extensions and Variations

What if you need to stay longer or change visa type? You have two options: 

Visitor Visa Extension

You can apply to extend your stay up to 9 months total. Apply at least 1 month before expiry.

Visitor Visa Variation

Switch from visitor to a work or student visa from within NZ. Start process before visitor visa expires. 

Special Directions

Special directions allow visitor visa flexibility in exceptional circumstances:

What are Special Direction Visas?

These authorize entry/stay in special cases where normal instructions don't fit.

Eligibility for Special Direction

You must prove unusual and compelling circumstances for this special visa.

Applying for Special Direction

A sponsor applies to Immigration NZ on your behalf outlining reasons.

Visa Processing Times

Processing times range from 2 weeks to 2 months depending on visa type, so apply early!

Visa Fees

Application fees start from NZD $208 plus biometrics fees based on country.

Visitor Visa vs Tourist Visa

Visitor and tourist visas are the same thing! Tourist visa is just a common name but officially it's a visitor visa.

I hope this breakdown gives you clarity on getting a visitor visa for your NZ travels! Feel free to ask any other questions. Safe travels!

FAQs

What are the differences between a visitor visa and a work visa for NZ?

A visitor visa is for short-term stays up to 9 months and does not allow you to work. A work visa is for living and working long-term in NZ for specific employers and time periods.

Do I need a return ticket to get a NZ visitor visa?

Yes, having an onward ticket is generally required as proof that you intend to leave NZ at the end of your authorized stay as a visitor.

Can I extend my NZ visitor visa while in the country?

Yes, you can normally apply to extend your visitor visa by up to 3 months at a time, to a total stay of no more than 9 consecutive months.

Is there a limit on how long I can stay in NZ on a visitor visa?

Yes, the maximum length of stay allowed on a single NZ visitor visa is usually 9 months. You may be granted less time though depending on the purpose of your visit.

Can I work remotely for my overseas employer while on a NZ visitor visa?

No, working remotely on a visitor visa is not allowed. You cannot engage in any kind of employment, paid or unpaid, even for an overseas company.

Full Audio : Listen Here

Direction : Get Here