Visitor Visa New Zealand
Whether you are coming to New Zealand for a holiday, to visit family, or for medical treatment, we help you understand your options and get the right visa — the first time.
12+
Years of NZ Immigration Experience
95%
Visa Approval Rate
500+
Families Helped
Licensed
Immigration Advisers (LAI)
Which Visitor Visa Do You Need?
New Zealand offers several types of visitor visas depending on your purpose of travel, nationality, and how long you plan to stay. We help you identify the right one and build the strongest possible application.
Tourist Visitor Visa
For people who want to holiday, travel, or experience New Zealand. Typically granted for up to 9 months depending on your nationality and circumstances.
Family Visitor Visa
For people visiting family members who live in New Zealand. Strong family ties can support a longer stay or a multiple-entry visa.
Business Visitor Visa
For short-term business activities such as attending conferences, meetings, or negotiations. Does not include the right to work or earn income in New Zealand.
Visitor Visa Extension
Already in New Zealand and want to stay longer? You may be able to extend your visitor visa without leaving the country, provided you apply before your current visa expires.
Medical Treatment Visitor Visa
For people travelling to New Zealand to receive medical treatment. Requires confirmation from a New Zealand medical provider and evidence of funding for treatment and stay.
Transit Visa
Passing through a New Zealand airport on your way to another destination? Some nationalities require a transit visa even if they are not entering the country. We confirm whether you need one.
What INZ Looks For
All visitor visa applications are assessed against the same core criteria. INZ must be satisfied that you are a genuine visitor who intends to leave New Zealand at the end of your stay.
Valid Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from New Zealand.
Genuine Intention to Leave
Evidence of ties to your home country — such as employment, property, family, or a return ticket — that demonstrate you intend to leave at the end of your visit.
Proof of Funds
Evidence that you can financially support yourself during your stay without needing to work. INZ has minimum fund requirements based on the length of your visit.
Good Character
You must meet New Zealand’s character requirements. A criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but it must be declared and addressed in the application.
Health Requirements
Depending on your home country and the length of your stay, a medical certificate may be required. We advise whether this applies to your application.
Purpose of Visit
A clear explanation of why you are visiting New Zealand, how long you plan to stay, and where you will be staying during your visit.
How We Help You Apply
Visitor visa applications seem straightforward — but a poorly prepared application is one of the most common reasons for refusals. We make sure yours is done right.
Free Assessment
We confirm the right visa type for your situation, check whether you need a visa at all based on your nationality, and identify any risk factors in your application before you proceed.
Document Preparation
We provide a tailored document checklist and review all evidence before submission — making sure your financial proof, travel itinerary, and supporting materials meet INZ’s requirements.
Application Lodgement
We submit your visitor visa application through INZ’s online system and handle all correspondence, including responses to any requests for further information.
Visa Granted
Once your visa is approved, we confirm the conditions and entry requirements so you know exactly what to expect when you arrive in New Zealand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to visit New Zealand?
It depends on your nationality. Citizens of some countries — including Australia, the United Kingdom, and many European nations — can visit New Zealand visa-free for a set period. Citizens of other countries must apply for a visitor visa before travelling. We confirm your specific requirements based on your passport.
How long can I stay in New Zealand on a visitor visa?
Most visitor visas are granted for up to 9 months. The duration depends on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and the strength of your application. In some cases, a shorter initial visa may be granted with the option to extend.
Can I work on a visitor visa?
No. A visitor visa does not include work rights. Working in New Zealand without the correct visa is a serious immigration breach and can affect your ability to obtain future visas or residency. If you want to work, a work visa is required.
My visa application was declined. What can I do?
A declined visitor visa is not necessarily the end. Depending on the reason for refusal, you may be able to appeal the decision, request a reconsideration, or submit a fresh application with stronger supporting evidence. Contact us to review your situation.
Can I extend my stay after I arrive in New Zealand?
In many cases, yes. You can apply for a visitor visa extension from within New Zealand before your current visa expires. Extensions are not guaranteed and must meet INZ’s criteria. We advise on whether an extension is viable for your situation and manage the application on your behalf.
How long does it take to get a visitor visa?
Processing times vary by nationality and application volume. Most straightforward visitor visa applications are processed within a few weeks, but complex cases or peak periods can take longer. We recommend applying well in advance of your planned travel date.
Planning a Trip to New Zealand?
Get expert advice before you apply. Our licensed immigration advisers make sure your visitor visa application gives you the best possible chance of approval.
