Going Online with Permanent Resident Visa Applications

Online Applications

The New Zealand Immigration Service has announced significant updates to the application process for several key visa categories, including the Permanent Resident Visa (PRV), Second or Subsequent Resident Visa (SSRV), and Variation of Travel Conditions (VOTC) of a resident visa. In a move to streamline procedures and improve efficiency, applications for these visas must now be submitted online. This transition to digital applications underscores the commitment to reducing the reliance on physical documentation, such as passports, and aims to expedite the overall processing time.

Eligibility Requirements for the Permanent Resident Visa

To qualify for permanent residency, applicants must have held their resident visa for a minimum of two years. Additionally, individuals who were outside New Zealand at the time their resident visa was issued must have made their first entry into the country on this visa at least two years prior. Prospective applicants are urged to visit the Permanent Resident Visa page to review the complete list of eligibility criteria before applying.

Application Guidelines

Applicants are encouraged to ensure their applications are complete and include all necessary supporting documents to avoid delays. Incomplete applications or those submitted prematurely, before meeting all eligibility criteria, are likely to be declined. Such instances would require reapplication and entail an additional processing fee. For more information, please refer to the Permanent Resident Visa on the New Zealand government’s website.

Exclusions

It’s important to highlight that not all permanent resident visa types are transitioning to the online application process at this stage. Specific categories, such as the Global Impact Permanent Resident Visa and the Afghan Emergency Resettlement Permanent Resident Visa, will continue to require paper-based applications. Eligible individuals for these visas should proceed with the existing paper application process.

For any questions regarding this update or any further immigration matters, please contact Arno Nothnagel, our NZ Immigration Director arno.nothnagel@absoluteimmigration.com