Want to visit New Zealand?

Thinking of visiting New Zealand but not sure if you need a visa? We’ve got you covered.

If you are visiting from certain ‘visa waiver’ countries, you do not need to apply for a visa to visit New Zealand, you will automatically be granted one when you enter the country. You will however need to apply for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority or NZeTA. This can be completed via the New Zealand Immigration website.

Those who are not from a ‘visa-waiver’ country will need to apply for a Visitor Visa. There are limitations as to what one can do while visiting New Zealand on this visa and it is important to follow the conditions of the visa. Those on a visitor visa can come to New Zealand for a holiday, study for up to 3 months, and/or visit family members.

Visitor visa applicants need to be able to prove that they are a bona fide applicant ( in New Zealand for their intended purpose) and have strong ties to their home country. Visitor visa applications can come with a high risk of decline if you come from certain ‘high risk’ countries.

It is best to get in touch with us to prepare an application to ensure you meet the necessary requirements.

In some instances where you are not of good character, i.e. you have a criminal conviction, or if you are not in good health or are coming to New Zealand for medical consultation or treatment, you will need to provide further information to justify the grant of a visa.

 

Need some help? Talk to us today and we can help guide you on whether an application is required. We will be able to provide guidance on how to handle complex applications or repeat applications with previous declines as well.  Speak to us quickly if you have a declined visitor visa to avoid making repeated failed applications that will further exacerbate your immigration history.

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Frequently Asked Questions

This depends on your nationality. Some passport holders can travel with an NZeTA (those from visa waiver countries), while others must apply for a visitor visa before arrival.
A visitor visa is usually issued for up to 3 months. Further visitor visa applications can be made until a limit. The maximum allowable time in country on a visitor visa is for up to 9 months within an 18-month period, depending on the conditions of your visa.
Working is not permitted on a visitor visa. This includes paid work, freelancing, or running a business in New Zealand. You may be able to work remotely if employer or clients are based outside of New Zealand during your visit.
Yes. You may study for up to 3 months on a visitor visa. Longer study requires a student visa.
You generally need to show NZD $1,000 per month, or NZD $400 per month if your accommodation has already been paid for.
Processing times vary by country and application volume. Most visitor visa applications are processed within 3 weeks, but delays can occur during busy periods.
Visitor visas cannot be “extended”, you must apply for a new visitor visa before your current one expires.
Common documents include a valid passport, proof of funds, travel plans, accommodation details, and evidence that you intend to leave New Zealand at the end of your visit. Book in a time with us if you are from a ‘high risk’ country and may need other further supporting documents.
Yes. Applications may be declined due to insufficient funds, unclear travel purpose, weak ties to your home country, or incomplete or incorrect documentation.
Yes, you can include your family members in a group to apply together with you. Each family member must provide their own supporting documents.

Our Experts

Muhammad Bin Kamarudin

Senior Associate | Solicitor

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Lethan Heugh

Solicitor

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