How to apply for a visitor visa

You may need to apply for your visitor visa in advance if you are coming to New Zealand to go on vacation. Find out how to apply.

• Step 1
• Visit Immigration NZ for information on visas and COVID-19.
• COVID-19 – Immigration NZ
• Check if you are required to apply.
• You’ll need either a NZeTA (New Zealand entry visa) or a visitor’s visa if you aren’t an Australian.
• Check if a NZeTA or a visitor’s visa is required.

• Step 2
• How to Apply
• Visa online application
• Visitor Visa (1017) – if you cannot apply online
• Immigration New Zealand will return your application if you do not provide the requested documents.

• Step 3
• How much does it cost, and how long does it take?
• The cost of a visa is determined by the way you apply. Applying online is generally cheaper. Most people use a credit card, such as MasterCard, Visa or UnionPay. What is your situation, and how long will it take you to receive a visa?
• Where to apply, what fees are charged, and when will a decision be made?
• If your application is rejected, you won’t receive a refund.

• Step 4
• Documents to be submitted
• You must prove:
• Have a NZ ticket or the money to purchase one.
• Good health and good character
• You will either be provided with money to support you financially or have enough money for you to survive while here.
• Criteria for meeting the requirements

• Step 5
• Verify your identity
• You must:
• If you are using the paper application form, please provide two colour photos.
• Have a passport valid for at least three months beyond the date that you intend to depart New Zealand.
• Acceptable visa photos
• INZ will inform you if they need your passport before they can approve your visa. Most online applications do not require it.

• Step 6
• You can prove your good character by proving that you are in good health.
• Any offences must be reported to Immigration New Zealand.
• You’ve been charged.
• Convicted of
• Served time in prison.
• It would help if you had a good character for a temporary visa.
• You may be required to obtain a medical certificate or chest X-ray if you are staying longer than six months.
• You may need to have an x-ray, medical examination or both.

• Step 7
• Visa application
• You will need to create a New Zealand RealMe account in order to submit an online application.
• What is RealMe?
• All your documents should be ready for uploading before you begin your online application.
• Visa application
• Visa factsheet: Visitor visa

• Step 8
• Receive your visa
• You’ll receive a letter or a label in the passport if your visa application has been approved.
• What we do with applications
• Your visa will state the date of expiration. You must leave New Zealand before or on this date unless you have another visa.