Apply early for New Zealand visitor visa

The summer months are the busiest time for Immigration New Zealand (INZ), with a surge in visa applications from travellers worldwide. INZs anticipates receiving over 260,000 visitor visa applications during the summer holiday to spend Christmas and New Year’s in New Zealand. Due to the high volume of applications, those planning to travel during these periods should apply early, otherwise may result in delays and travel plans may be disrupted. 

For Christmas travel: suggest submitting it by 15 October 2024. 
For New Year or Chinese Lunar New Year travel: suggest applying no later than 15 November 2024. 

Required documentation 

A complete and accurate application helps ensure timely processing. Missing documents or incomplete applications can lead to delays or denials. Below are the key documents required to apply for a visitor visa in New Zealand. 

1. Valid passport: the passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the planned departure date from New Zealand. A high-quality scanned copy of the passport’s photo page with visa records, and entry and exit stamps must be submitted when doing the online application.

2. Acceptable photo: a recent photo (must be less than 6 months old) that meets INZ’s photo requirements is required to submit an online application. Uploading an existing photo or taking one using a personal device’s camera is accepted when applying via NZeTA web app.

3. Accurate personal information: make sure all personal details in the application, such as name, passport number, and date of birth match the information provided on the passport.

4. Proof of genuine intentions: documentation showing the genuine intentions of the temporary visit to New Zealand and return to the home country afterward. The reasons can include but are not limited to holidays, being with family and friends, participating in amateur sports, and getting married. Meanwhile, such supporting documents must be translated into English.

5. English documentation: a certified English translation is required for any documents that are not in English including proof of funds such as bank statements, flight itineraries including return tickets, and proof of employment in the home country.

6. Proof of funds or sponsorship: provide sufficient funds evidence to support the stay in New Zealand or show the acceptable sponsor.

Conclusion 

Applying early for a New Zealand visitor visa is essential for planning to travel during peak seasons. Submitting applications by the recommended deadlines and providing all required documentation are encouraged to secure visitor visas in time. To read comprehensive requirements related to the visitor visa application,  visit the  Immigration New Zealand website. 

For further information or assistance on these updates, please contact Arno Nothnagel, our NZ Immigration Director, at arno.nothnagel@absoluteimmigration.com.