When considering a trip to New Zealand for tourism, holidays, or leisure, there are several visa options tailored to your specific purpose. The visa you choose will depend on the nature of your visit. For example, if your intention is to take a holiday or visit family and friends, you can apply for a visitor visa. Various types of visitor visas cater to different circumstances. For instance, if you are a grandparent of a New Zealand citizen or resident, you may choose to apply for a Grandparent’s Visa, which permits an 18-month stay within a three-year period.
New Zealand has arrangements with certain countries known as ‘visa waiver countries’. Travellers from these nations may be eligible for a visitor visa upon arrival, allowing stays of up to 3 months (6 months for British citizens). However, an NZ Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) is still necessary. Additionally, visitors planning to study for up to 3 months must also obtain an NZeTA.
If you are not from a visa waiver country, you will need to submit an application for a visitor visa before travelling to New Zealand. The application process requires specific information regarding your background and intended stay.
Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.”– Winston Churchill
Visitor visas permit stays of up to 3 months at a time, with the possibility of renewal, totaling up to 9 months, provided the previous visa has not expired. In certain circumstances, such as for medical treatment or attending a funeral, stays of up to 12 months may be allowed.
The New Zealand Working Holiday Visa is typically available to young adults aged 18-30 (with some countries extending to 35). This visa allows for travel and employment in New Zealand for 12 to 23 months, depending on the applicant’s citizenship.
It is important to note that eligibility criteria and requirements differ depending on the applicant’s country of origin and passport. Choosing the appropriate Working Holiday Scheme is essential to avoid application rejection or potential implications for future visas.
Business travellers to New Zealand may choose to apply for a business visitor visa, permitting multiple entries, each with a maximum stay of 3 months per year.
Eligible roles include official trade mission representatives, overseas sales representatives, buyers of New Zealand goods or services, and individuals involved in business consultations or negotiations.
Individuals seeking occupational registration in New Zealand can apply for this visa. It is also available to those already in New Zealand awaiting residence approval but requiring additional time for occupational registration.