Find the Right Visitor Visa
for Your New Zealand Journey

Service Type

Visitor Visas

Applications Processed

300+

Average Processing Time:

1-4 Weeks

Completion Rate

99%

Why Choose Angel Immigration?

Understanding New Zealand’s Visitor Visa Requirements

Introduction

Are you looking to spend time in New Zealand exploring its beauty and culture? A New Zealand Visitor Visa allows you to experience the country for tourism, short-term studies, or visiting family and friends. Understanding the application requirements and choosing the right visitor visa type is key to a smooth experience. Here’s everything you need to know to get started.

Do You Need a Visitor Visa or an NZeTA to Visit New Zealand?

Depending on your nationality, you may either need a Visitor Visa or an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) to enter New Zealand. Here’s a quick guide to determine which one you’ll need:

  • Visitor Visa: Required if you plan to stay in New Zealand for up to 9 months for tourism, family visits, or short-term studies. It is suitable for travellers from countries without a visa waiver agreement with New Zealand.
  • NZeTA: Required for visitors from visa waiver countries. It’s faster to obtain, allowing you to enter New Zealand for up to 3 months (or up to 6 months if you are from the UK).

Note: An NZeTA is required even for transit through New Zealand if you are from a visa waiver country. Both Visitor Visas and NZeTAs have specific conditions; ensure you meet them before applying.

Stay Duration

A New Zealand Visitor Visa typically allows stays of up to 3, 6, or 9 months, depending on your visa type and individual circumstances. You may be able to extend your stay within New Zealand up to 9 months in an 18-month period, given you meet the extension requirements.

For NZeTA holders, the stay duration is generally limited to 3 months, or 6 months for UK passport holders. It’s essential to leave the country when your visa or NZeTA expires to avoid penalties or future visa complications.

Terms and Conditions of a New Zealand Visitor Visa

Visitor Visa holders in New Zealand are expected to meet these conditions:

  • Travel Purpose: Primarily for tourism, visiting family and friends, or short-term courses.
  • No Employment: Working in New Zealand on a Visitor Visa is strictly prohibited.
  • Medical and Character Requirements: Health and character checks may be required for stays longer than 6 months.

Failing to comply with these conditions may lead to visa cancellation. It’s important to familiarise yourself with these requirements before travelling.

Cost and Processing Time

The processing fee for a New Zealand Visitor Visa varies but typically ranges between NZD $180–$250. Applications can take between 1–4 weeks for processing, depending on the time of year, nationality, and completeness of the application. For NZeTA, processing is faster, often within 72 hours, and costs less.
Professional visa consultants, like our team, can assist you with completing your application accurately, ensuring a faster, smoother approval process. Book a consultation to discuss your visitor visa options with our licensed experts.

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