How to apply for a visitor visa

If you come to New Zealand on a holiday, you might need to apply for a visitor visa before you arrive. Work out what you need to do to apply.

  1. 1

    Find out if you need to apply

    If you come to NZ on holiday, you’ll need to get either an NZeTA or a visitor visa — unless you’re an Australian citizen.

    Check if you need an NZeTA or a visitor visa

    Explore visa options — Immigration New Zealand

  2. 2

    Choose how to apply

    The fastest and easiest way to apply is online.

    Apply for your visitor visa online — Immigration New Zealand

    If you cannot apply online, you can download a paper application.

    Visitor Visa Application (INZ 1017) — Immigration New Zealand

    If you do not provide all the documents you’re asked for, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) will return your application.

  3. 3

    Find out what it costs and how long it takes

    What you pay for your visa depends on the method you use to apply — applying online is usually cheaper. Most people pay by credit card (Mastercard, Visa or UnionPay).

    Find out what applies to you and how long it’ll take to get your visa.

    Fees, decision times and where to apply — Immigration New Zealand

    Note: You will not get a refund of your fees if your application is turned down.
  4. 4

    Gather documents for your application

    You’ll need to prove that you:

    • have a ticket out of NZ or money to buy one
    • are in good health and of good character
    • have money to live on or have a sponsor to support you financially while you’re here.

    What you need to apply for a visitor visa — Immigration New Zealand

  5. 5

    Prove your identity

    With your application you need to:

    • provide a colour photo — or 2 if you’re using the paper form to apply
    • have a passport that’s valid for at least 3 months after the date you plan to leave NZ.

    Acceptable photos for a visa or NZeTA — Immigration New Zealand

    INZ will let you know if you need to send your passport to them before they approve your visa. For most online applications they do not need it.

  6. 6

    Prove you’re of good character and in good health

    You must tell INZ about any offences you’ve:

    • been charged with
    • been convicted of
    • served time in prison for.

    Good character for temporary visas — Immigration New Zealand

    If you’re applying for a visa, you may need a chest X-ray or medical examination as evidence of your good health.

    Who needs an X-ray or medical examination — Immigration New Zealand

  7. 7

    Apply for your visa

    To make an online application, you need to set up a New Zealand Government RealMe® account.

    Use RealMe® to prove your identity online

    Before you start your online application, have all your supporting documents ready to upload.

    Apply for your visa online — Immigration New Zealand

  8. 8

    Receive your visa

    If your visa application is approved, you’ll get a label in your passport or a letter.

    How we process visa applications — Immigration New Zealand

    The date your visa expires is on your visa. Unless you get another visa, you must leave NZ on or before this date.

    Changing the conditions of a visitor visa — Immigration New Zealand

  9. 9

    Plan your trip

    Once you have your visa sorted, you can start planning your trip to NZ. Check out some of the must-do attractions and places to go.

    Welcome to New Zealand — Tourism New Zealand

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