What is a New Zealand Visitor Visa

The Visitor Visa allows eligible travellers to visit New Zealand temporarily for tourism, family visits and other permitted visitor activities. Immigration New Zealand assesses the application and decides the stay period and conditions.

Some travellers can use an NZeTA before travelling and seek entry under the visa waiver arrangements. Check which route applies before preparing an application. [01][04]

Visitor Visa or NZeTA

An NZeTA is an electronic travel authority. It is not a visa or a guarantee of entry. Eligibility also depends on how you travel and whether you are visiting or transiting. Special arrangements apply to some cruise passengers and certain travellers coming from Australia. [02][04][07]

Applying from the UAE

UAE citizens: The UAE is on New Zealand's visa waiver list. An eligible UAE passport holder travelling for a qualifying short visit normally needs an NZeTA before departure.

UAE residents with other passports: Your Emirates ID or UAE residence visa does not by itself qualify you for visa waiver travel. Indian, Pakistani, Filipino, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan and Nepalese passport holders generally need a Visitor Visa for ordinary tourist travel, unless another specific exemption applies. [03]

Your UAE residence evidence, employment or business circumstances and ability to return after the trip can support your application. [06]

How long can you stay in New Zealand

The approved duration depends on the route and your individual circumstances.

• Multiple entry Visitor Visa: Generally permits a combined stay of up to six months in each 12 month period.
• Single entry Visitor Visa: Can permit up to nine months in an 18 month period. Leaving New Zealand ends a single entry visa.
• Visa waiver visit: Usually up to three months per visit, or six months for qualifying UK passport holders. Visa waiver visitors cannot stay for more than six months in a 12 month period. [01][04]

An NZeTA is normally valid for two years for travellers. That validity allows qualifying travel during its life; it does not allow a continuous two year visit. [02]

Read the dates and conditions on your own approval. General visitor stay limits have specific exceptions, and longer stay family categories have separate rules. Do not assume the maximum duration will be granted. [27]

New Zealand Visitor Visa requirements

You need to show that your visit is genuine, your plans are temporary and you can meet the conditions of your stay.

Your application should explain why you are travelling, where you intend to stay, who will pay and why you expect to leave on time. Relevant evidence may include employment commitments, approved leave, business responsibilities, family circumstances and your immigration history. [06]

You must also meet the applicable health and character requirements. Immigration New Zealand can request additional evidence when assessing your circumstances. [16][17]

Passport and travel documents

Your passport should normally remain valid for at least three months after your planned departure from New Zealand. Check the requirements of any transit countries as well. Travel using the passport connected to your visa or NZeTA, and update the relevant travel permission if your passport changes. [07]

Money for your stay

Self funded visitors generally need genuinely available funds of:

For one self funded visitor, a two month visit normally requires at least NZD 2,000, or NZD 800 where accommodation has already been paid for. Budget for your actual itinerary as well as these minimums.

Bank evidence should show accessible funds. A hotel reservation without payment is not proof of prepaid accommodation. There is no single AED balance suitable for every trip. [05]

You also need arrangements to leave New Zealand. The money for an onward ticket must be additional to your living funds. NZeTA air travellers must have a paid ticket out of New Zealand when travelling under the applicable visitor entry requirements. [02][07]

Invitations and formal sponsorship

A family member or friend can provide an invitation explaining your relationship, proposed visit and accommodation arrangements. An invitation is different from formal financial sponsorship.

An acceptable sponsor must meet Immigration New Zealand's criteria. This may be an eligible New Zealand citizen, resident or organisation. Having a sponsor does not guarantee approval. [08]

If you rely on sponsorship, the sponsor must complete the required process and provide supporting information. Online applications may require the sponsor's sharing ID and a separate online sponsorship form. [09]

What you can do during your visit

Tourism and visiting family or friends are common reasons to apply. Short study is also possible within visitor conditions. Generally, visitors may study for up to three months; this permission is for eligible short study and does not allow you to take the first three months of a longer diploma or degree as a visitor. [03]

Remote work for overseas employers or clients

Visitor visas applied for on or after 27 January 2025 permit qualifying remote work for overseas employers or clients. This can include a self employed person serving clients outside New Zealand.

The permission does not cover employment with a New Zealand employer, work for a New Zealand business or person in exchange for payment or other benefits, or work requiring your physical presence in New Zealand. Free accommodation or services can count as a benefit.

Permitted remote work does not remove your visitor conditions or extend your stay. Tax obligations may also arise, so check the Inland Revenue guidance for your circumstances. [10]

Business visits

Business meetings, exploring commercial opportunities and negotiating contracts may fit the Business Visitor Visa, which generally allows up to three months in a year. Eligible visa waiver travellers may use an NZeTA for permitted business visits. The exact activities matter; a business visit does not provide general permission to take local employment or deliver work services. [11]

Other visitor options for specific purposes

Medical treatment

If you are travelling for planned medical treatment or a consultation, check the Medical Treatment Visitor Visa. You normally need written acceptance for treatment, expected costs and evidence of how those costs will be covered. This requirement also applies to travellers who would otherwise qualify for visa waiver entry. [12]

Visiting children or grandchildren

The Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa may suit eligible parents and grandparents of New Zealand citizens or residents. It generally allows visits of up to six months at a time, with a maximum of 18 months over three years, and requires an acceptable sponsor. [13]

Longer visits under Parent Boost

The Parent Boost Visitor Visa is a separate option offering eligible parents a stay of up to five years. It has specific sponsorship, financial, health and mandatory insurance requirements, including subsequent offshore checks. It is a temporary visitor category and does not itself provide a pathway to residence. [14]

The appropriate option depends on your purpose and circumstances. Each category has its own application requirements.

Documents for a New Zealand Visit Visa

Prepare readable, consistent evidence that matches your application answers. The final checklist depends on your passport, residence, purpose of travel and family circumstances.

Identity and application records

• Current passport and relevant travel history.
• A recent photograph meeting the online requirements.
• Details of each person included in the application.
• Copies of the required supporting documents in the accepted upload formats. [18]

Evidence of your visit and circumstances

• Your itinerary, travel dates and accommodation.
• Host details and an invitation, where relevant.
• Evidence of lawful UAE residence.
• Employment confirmation and approved leave.
• Business records, if self employed.
• Earlier visa refusals and relevant decisions or explanations. [06]

An employer letter or NOC should reflect your actual circumstances. Do not assume there is one compulsory NOC format for every applicant.

Financial and accommodation documents

Provide bank or other accepted financial records showing funds you can use, and receipts if relying on prepaid accommodation. If a sponsor will support you, include the required sponsorship information. Explain how the proposed trip will be funded. [05][09]

Family documents

Where applicable, provide marriage or partnership evidence, birth certificates and identity documents for accompanying family members. Additional evidence may be needed to establish dependency, relationship requirements or a child's travel arrangements. Answer the application questions for every person included. [18]

English translations

Submit full English translations of non English supporting documents together with copies of the originals. For visitor applications, supporting document translations generally do not need certification, but medical and police certificate translations must be certified.

The translator cannot be the applicant, a family member or the adviser assisting with that application. Include the translator's contact details and information demonstrating their language experience or qualifications. [15]

Use genuine records and reservations that accurately describe your plans. Avoid non refundable travel purchases until your Visitor Visa has been approved. [01]

Health checks and police certificates

A medical examination or chest X ray is not automatically required for every short tourist visit. Requirements depend on factors such as your intended stay, health history and countries where you have lived or travelled. Follow any request from Immigration New Zealand and use the required medical process. [16]

Police certificates may be required depending on your age and total time in New Zealand, including earlier visits. A common requirement applies to applicants aged 17 or older whose total stay will reach 24 months or more. Immigration New Zealand can request certificates in other circumstances. Follow the current validity and document instructions for your application. [17]

Travel and medical insurance

Arrange suitable travel and medical cover for your trip. Check emergency treatment, existing conditions and any activities you plan to do. Ordinary visitors should not assume they are entitled to publicly funded health care.

Full medical insurance is recommended for standard visitors. Some categories, including Parent Boost, make specific insurance cover compulsory. [01][14]

Applying with your family

A standard Visitor Visa application can include a qualifying partner and dependent children aged 19 or younger. Family members must meet the applicable relationship, identity, health and character requirements. Older children need their own applications. [18][29]

A family travelling together does not automatically need the Group Visitor Visa. That category has separate rules for organised groups. [29]

For NZeTA travel, each eligible traveller needs their own NZeTA, including children. Family members with different passports may need different travel permissions. [02]

New Zealand visitor visa fees

The following amounts were checked on 25 October 2026. All amounts are in New Zealand dollars.

The Visitor Visa example uses the standard offshore Band C fee. Nationality based waivers and other exceptions can change the total. The NZeTA amounts include the visitor levy for travellers who must pay it. [02][19][20]

Family applications and fee concessions

A qualifying family application attracts one application fee and immigration levy, plus the IVL for each liable person.

Example: one qualifying Band C family application with two IVL liable applicants totals NZD 541 (300 + 41 + 100 + 100).

Some passport holders qualify for fee concessions. For example, Philippine citizens applying offshore for a visit not exceeding 59 days can qualify for a waiver of the application fee and immigration levy; the IVL remains payable unless exempt. [19]

Government charges are separate from consultancy fees, translation costs, medical checks, insurance and any applicable third party service charges. Confirm the amount shown for your application before paying.

The IVL is normally collected with the visa application or NZeTA request. Do not add it again when it is already included in the quoted total. [20]

How to apply for a New Zealand Visit Visa

From 1 October 2026, standard Visitor Visa applications and other specified visitor and transit categories must use enhanced Immigration Online. Paper applications are accepted only in exceptional circumstances agreed with Immigration New Zealand. [22]

1 Confirm the route

Check your passport and travel purpose to establish whether you need a Visitor Visa, NZeTA or another category.

2 Prepare your evidence

Gather identity, travel, financial and any family documents. Arrange translations where necessary.

3 Complete the online application

Use the official application service, provide accurate information and upload clear documents.

4 Review and pay

Check names, passport details, dates and declarations before submitting the application and paying the displayed charges.

5 Respond to requests

Monitor your account and provide further information or health documents if requested.

6 Read the decision

If approved, check the travel dates and visa conditions before finalising your trip. [23]

NZeTA travellers use the official NZeTA website or mobile app instead of the Visitor Visa application process. [02]

New Zealand Visit Visa processing time

On 25 October 2026, Immigration New Zealand's published standard Visitor Visa figures showed 50% processed within one week and 80% within two weeks. These figures describe recently processed applications, are calculated using working days and are updated regularly.

For an NZeTA, allow at least 72 hours. Some requests and visa applications take longer. Published figures are planning guidance, not guaranteed deadlines for an individual application.

Apply with enough time for document preparation and possible requests for further information. Check the live processing page before committing to travel dates. [21]

Before you travel

Keep your passport, approval details, accommodation or host information and evidence of funds available. Check the onward travel requirements for your route. A visa or NZeTA does not guarantee permission to enter; border checks still apply. [07]

Complete the New Zealand Traveller Declaration

Everyone entering New Zealand must complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration, including children. It is separate from the Visitor Visa or NZeTA. [25]

The declaration is free. Air travellers can normally submit it from 24 hours before starting their journey to New Zealand. If you have a stopover where you leave the airport and collect your bags, check the specific timing rules for that journey.

Declare relevant goods accurately, including food, plant or animal products and used outdoor equipment. A paper declaration is available on arrival if you cannot use the digital service. [24]

Follow your approved conditions

Check your permitted stay and any restrictions on travel, work or study. A variation of conditions does not extend a visa's expiry date. If you want to stay longer, you need to apply for a new visa and qualify for it; do this before your current permission expires. [26]

General visitor limits still apply unless an exception or a different eligible category permits a longer stay. A visitor visa does not automatically become a work or residence visa. [27]

Preparing a clear application

Consistency matters. Your itinerary, requested stay, available funds, employment information and family details should tell the same factual story. Provide accurate answers about immigration history and disclose information requested in the form. [18]

A previous refusal should be reviewed carefully before another application. Identify what evidence or circumstances need to be addressed rather than simply resubmitting the same material. If advice is needed, consult a person authorised to provide New Zealand immigration advice. [28]

How Nexus Migration can help

Contact Nexus Migration for support with organising documents, coordinating the agreed application steps and tracking requests for further information. Your service agreement will confirm the scope and charges.

Personalised New Zealand immigration advice must come from an appropriately licensed or exempt person. Immigration New Zealand makes the visa decision. [28]

Frequently asked questions

Is a New Zealand tourist visa the same as a Visitor Visa

For an ordinary holiday, the formal visa category is the Visitor Visa. Eligible visa waiver travellers may instead use an NZeTA before travel and receive the relevant visitor permission at the border. [01][04]

Do UAE residents qualify for an NZeTA

UAE citizenship qualifies for the visa waiver route, subject to its conditions. Holding UAE residence with another passport does not by itself qualify you. Check the rules for the passport you will use. [03]

Can I stay for two years with an NZeTA

No. Its normal two year validity concerns travel authority. Each visit has a separate permitted stay, and cumulative stay limits also apply. [04]

Is IELTS required for a standard Visitor Visa

There is no routine IELTS requirement for a standard Visitor Visa. Eligibility is assessed against the visitor requirements and the evidence of your circumstances. [01]

Do I need a family member in New Zealand

No. Self funded tourism is possible. If you are visiting someone, include the relevant host information. If you depend on financial sponsorship, the formal sponsorship requirements apply. [05][08]

Does an invitation guarantee approval

No. A host's invitation supports the purpose of a visit, but you must still satisfy the applicable requirements. Formal sponsorship also does not guarantee approval. [08]

Can I work remotely during my holiday

Qualifying remote work for overseas employers or clients is permitted under the applicable visitor conditions. This does not allow ordinary local employment or work for New Zealand clients. [10]

Can I attend business meetings

Permitted business visitor activities can include meetings and contract negotiations. Check that the visa or visa waiver route covers your precise activities before travelling. [11]

Do children need their own travel permission

Yes. A child may be included in a qualifying Visitor Visa family application, but their details and eligibility still need assessment. For NZeTA travel, each child needs a separate NZeTA. [02][18]

How much bank history must I provide

Follow your application checklist and any specific request. Your evidence should show funds genuinely available for your trip. [05]

Are translations always required to be certified

Full English translations are required for non English supporting documents. Visitor supporting document translations generally do not need certification, except medical and police certificates. The translator must meet Immigration New Zealand's requirements. [15]

Will I need a medical examination or police certificate

Not every short visit requires these documents. Requirements depend on your circumstances and any request from Immigration New Zealand. Answer health and character questions fully even when no certificate is initially requested. [16][17]

Can parents visit for five years

Eligible parents may apply under the separate Parent Boost Visitor Visa. Its sponsorship, finances, health and insurance requirements must be met. The five year option is not a feature of every standard Visitor Visa. [14]

Can I extend my stay

You need to apply for a new visa if you want a longer stay. Approval depends on eligibility and the relevant stay limits. Changing visa conditions alone does not extend the expiry date. [26][27]

Are government fees refunded if a visa is refused

Immigration New Zealand does not refund application fees and applicable levies simply because an application is declined. Consultancy refund terms are separate and depend on your agreement. [19]

Does a visa guarantee entry into New Zealand

No. You must meet entry requirements and comply with border checks. Keep evidence of your visit, funds and onward travel available when travelling. [07]

Is the Traveller Declaration included in my visa application

No. Complete the separate New Zealand Traveller Declaration for your arrival. It is free to submit through the official service. [24][25]

Can Nexus Migration guarantee a visa approval

No. Visa decisions are made by Immigration New Zealand. Application support can help organise a submission, but it cannot guarantee approval, a particular duration or a decision date.