Standard Visitor Visa for New Zealand: Requirements & Process
Planning a visit to New Zealand? The standard visitor visa gives you the flexibility to stay for up to 9 months for tourism, family visits, or attending events. We’ll help you understand the requirements, prepare a strong application, and navigate the process without surprises.
01. Introduction
New Zealand offers a safe, welcoming environment with stunning scenery and friendly people. Whether you’re here for adventure activities, cultural experiences, or quality time with loved ones, getting your visa right is the first step.
Immigration New Zealand makes visiting straightforward through its visitor visa programme. To qualify, you’ll need proof of onward travel and enough money to support yourself and any family members during your stay. We’ll help you understand exactly what’s required and ensure your application meets all the criteria.
02. Visitor Visa or NZeTA: Which do you need?
Most visitors need either a visitor visa or an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority), depending on your nationality and circumstances.
You’ll need an NZeTA if:
- You’re from a visa waiver country
- You’re staying less than 3 months (6 months for UK citizens)
Even if you qualify for an NZeTA, you’ll need a visitor visa if you have:
- Been to prison in the past (you’ll need a Character Waiver)
- Significant medical problems (you’ll need a Health Waiver)
- A history of criminal or terrorist acts (you may need a Special Direction to persuade INZ to approve your application)
- Deportation history from any country
Even visa waiver nationals may need a full visitor visa in certain situations. This might require additional documents like a Character Waiver, Health Waiver, or Special Direction from Immigration New Zealand.
Not sure which applies to you? Our licensed advisers will assess your situation and recommend the right option. You only need one or the other—never both.
03. How long can you stay?
A New Zealand visitor visa typically allows stays of 9 to 18 months. You may be able to extend your visa by an additional 3 months if:
- You need more time to complete your travel plans
- Circumstances beyond your control prevent you from leaving
- You’ve applied for New Zealand residence for the first time
Important limitations:
- You cannot stay in New Zealand for more than 12 months in any 24-month period on visitor visas
- After spending 12 months in New Zealand, you must leave for 12 months before becoming eligible for another visitor visa
- Extensions require proof that you haven’t worked, studied beyond permitted limits, or received financial sponsorship during your stay
Need help with an extension? Our team can guide you through the requirements and application process.
04. What can you do on a visitor visa?
Your visitor visa allows you to:
- Visit friends and family
- Tour New Zealand and explore its landscapes
- Participate in amateur sports and adventure activities
- Study for up to 3 months within any 12-month period
- Include your partner and dependent children (under 19) in your application
You cannot work on a visitor visa.
Travel requirements: Unless your visa specifically states “Return/onward travel not required,” you must have either:
- A valid ticket to leave New Zealand, plus authorisation to enter your destination country, or
- A sponsor who agrees to pay for your departure ticket to a country you’re authorised to enter
If you plan to leave and re-enter New Zealand multiple times, ensure your visa allows multiple entries.
05. Processing times and costs
Processing time: Typically 12-30 days, though this varies depending on your country of origin and the completeness of your application.
Our service fee: NZ$1,000 – $1,650 for a standard Visitor Visa application.
All medical certificates and police clearances must be translated into English. Missing documentation or errors can cause significant delays or rejection. Our advisers ensure your application is complete, accurate, and properly formatted the first time.
Ready to apply? Book a consultation to get the ball rolling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a visitor visa?
How long can I stay in New Zealand on a visitor visa?
If you need more time, you may be able to request an extension of up to 3 months. Extensions require proof of sufficient funds, travel insurance, and evidence of your intention to leave New Zealand at the end of your stay. Immigration New Zealand assesses each extension request individually.
Note: You cannot stay in New Zealand for more than 12 months total in any 24-month period on visitor visas.
What are the basic requirements for a New Zealand visitor visa?
- Have a valid passport
- Provide proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay
- Show evidence of onward travel (a ticket to leave New Zealand)
- Demonstrate genuine intention to visit temporarily
Can I work while on a New Zealand visitor visa?
If you want to work in New Zealand, you'll need to apply for an appropriate work visa based on your skills and qualifications. Working without authorisation can result in visa cancellation and future entry bans.
Need to work while in New Zealand? Contact us to discuss work visa options that match your situation.
Can I study in New Zealand on a visitor visa?
If you want to study for longer than 3 months, you'll need to apply for a New Zealand student visa. Some course providers may also require additional documentation for enrollment, such as proof of language proficiency.
How do I apply for a New Zealand visitor visa?
We handle:
- Document preparation (proof of funds, travel itinerary, supporting documents)
- Completing your online application accurately
- Biometrics appointments and additional requirements
- Quality checks to avoid errors and delays
What is the processing time for a New Zealand visitor visa?
You can help speed up the process by:
- Submitting all required documents upfront
- Ensuring translations are accurate and certified
- Meeting health and character requirements from the start
Our advisers ensure your application is complete and accurate the first time, helping you avoid unnecessary delays.
Can I bring my family on a visitor visa to New Zealand?
You can either:
- Include them in your main application, or
- Have them submit separate applications
How much funding is required for a New Zealand visitor visa?
Acceptable proof of funds includes:
- Bank statements
- Traveler's checks
- Credit card statements
- Sponsorship letters (if someone is supporting your visit)
What are the medical requirements for a New Zealand visitor visa?
- A chest X-ray
- A medical certificate from an approved panel physician
All medical certificates must be translated into English if not originally in English. We recommend arranging any required medical examinations early to avoid delays in processing your application.