Visa requirements

New Zealand

General visa requirements for travelling to New Zealand. These policies apply to all nationalities unless a country-specific policy exists.

Have a specific passport country? Check your specific route.

Journalist visa (Specific Purpose Work Visa - Journalist/Media)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 20-25 working days
Fee: NZD 635
Validity: Duration of specific assignment or event
Entry: Single entry

Journalists and media professionals coming to New Zealand to work on specific assignments, cover events, or for media productions must apply for a Specific Purpose Work Visa or Visiting Media Programme Visitor Visa. Note: APEC Business Travel Card holders cannot use the ABTC if they are news correspondents. Short-term media visits (attending a press conference, interview) by journalists from visa waiver countries may be possible on an NZeTA, but paid media work requires a work visa.

Eligibility

Nationality
Open to all nationalities. Journalists from visa waiver countries may use NZeTA for short unpaid media activities.
Purpose of visit
Must be a professional journalist, media worker, or film crew member travelling for a specific media purpose.
Includes
- Media assignments
- coverage
- productions
Employment
Must be employed by or contracted to a media organisation for the specific assignment.

Required status: Media employment or contract

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 3
Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.

Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: No; Must include salary: No
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Cover letter
Explain the purpose of travel, travel dates, who will pay, and why you will leave before the visa or permission expires.
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Credit/debit card; Amount: NZD 635

How to apply

Document gathering
Obtain assignment letter from media organisation, prepare passport and supporting documents.
Online application
Submit Specific Purpose Work Visa application online through Immigration New Zealand.
Document submission
Upload assignment letter, cover letter, and passport details.
Fee payment
Pay approximately NZD 635 application fee.
Processing wait
Wait 20-25 working days for processing.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Transit visa (NZeTA - Transit (Visa Waiver Countries))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

e-Visa

Maximum stay: 1 days
Processing time: Up to 72 hours
Fee: NZD 17 (app) or NZD 23 (online) + NZD 100 IVL
Validity: 2 years
Entry: Multiple entry

Citizens of visa waiver countries transiting through Auckland Airport must hold a valid NZeTA. Transit is only available at Auckland International Airport. Passengers must remain in the transit area and transit within 24 hours.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must hold a passport from a visa waiver country or territory.

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 3
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: No

How to apply

Online application
Apply for NZeTA via the official app or online portal before travel.
Fee payment
Pay NZeTA fee and IVL of NZD 100.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Working Holiday Visa - China (18-30, 12 months, quota 1000))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: 2-4 weeks
Fee: NZD 455
Validity: 12 months from entry
Entry: Multiple entry

Chinese citizens aged 18-30 can apply for a working holiday visa. Annual quota of 1,000 places. Quota opens at a specific date each year and fills quickly. Applicants must have a tertiary qualification and meet English language requirements.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be a citizen of the People's Republic of China.
Age
Must be aged 18-30 at the time of application.

Max age: 30; Min age: 18
Financial
Must have at least NZD 4,200 in available funds.

Minimum funds: NZD 4,200

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 15
Proof of funds
Minimum amount: NZD 4,200
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: No
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Credit/debit card; Amount: NZD 455

How to apply

Online application
Apply online when the annual quota opens. Places are limited to 1,000 per year.
Fee payment
Pay NZD 455 application fee.
Processing wait
Wait 2-4 weeks for processing.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Working Holiday Visa - United Kingdom (18-35, 36 months))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 1095 days
Processing time: 2-4 weeks
Fee: NZD 280
Validity: 36 months from entry
Entry: Multiple entry

British citizens aged 18-35 can stay for up to 36 months (3 years) on a working holiday visa in New Zealand, the longest working holiday duration available. The application fee is lower at NZD 280 under reciprocal arrangements.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be a British citizen holding a UK passport.
Age
Must be aged 18-35 at the time of application.

Max age: 35; Min age: 18
Financial
Must have at least NZD 4,200 in available funds and a return ticket.

Minimum funds: NZD 4,200

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 36
Proof of funds
Minimum amount: NZD 4,200
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: No
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Credit/debit card; Amount: NZD 280

How to apply

Online application
Apply online through Immigration New Zealand.
Fee payment
Pay NZD 280 application fee.
Processing wait
Wait 2-4 weeks for processing.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Diplomatic visa (Diplomatic, Consular, and Official Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 2-4 weeks
Fee: Free
Validity: Duration of diplomatic posting or official visit
Entry: Multiple entry

For holders of diplomatic or official passports travelling to New Zealand on official government business, or those assigned to diplomatic missions or consular posts in New Zealand. Application is typically coordinated through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT). No fee is charged for diplomatic visa applications.

Eligibility

Nationality
Open to all nationalities holding diplomatic or official passports on government business.
Purpose of visit
Must be travelling for official government duties, diplomatic assignments, or official international organisation business.
Includes
- Official government duties
- diplomatic assignments

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 6
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

How to apply

Document gathering
Prepare diplomatic passport, note verbale, and official assignment documentation.
Document submission
Submit application through diplomatic channels, embassy, or MFAT.
Processing wait
Wait 2-4 weeks for processing through diplomatic channels.

Transit visa (NZeTA - Transit (Transit Visa Waiver Countries))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

e-Visa

Maximum stay: 1 days
Processing time: Up to 72 hours
Fee: NZD 17 (app) or NZD 23 (online) + NZD 100 IVL
Validity: 2 years
Entry: Multiple entry

Citizens of transit visa waiver countries (including China since 2025, Fiji since September 2024) can transit through Auckland Airport on an NZeTA instead of a Transit Visa. Must remain in the transit area for no more than 24 hours. These countries still require a full Visitor Visa to actually enter New Zealand.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must hold a passport from a transit visa waiver country: Bahamas, China, Colombia, Fiji, Indonesia, Kiribati, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Samoa, Thailand, Tonga, Tuvalu, Venezuela.

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 3
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: No

How to apply

Online application
Apply for NZeTA via the official app or online portal.
Fee payment
Pay the NZeTA processing fee and IVL.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Working Holiday Visa - Austria/Malaysia (18-30, 6 months))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 180 days
Processing time: 2-4 weeks
Fee: NZD 455
Validity: 6 months from entry
Entry: Multiple entry

Austrian and Malaysian citizens are eligible for a working holiday visa but with a shorter 6-month duration compared to the standard 12 months available to most other countries.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be a citizen of Austria or Malaysia.
Age
Must be aged 18-30 at the time of application.

Max age: 30; Min age: 18

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 9
Proof of funds
Minimum amount: NZD 4,200
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Credit/debit card; Amount: NZD 455

How to apply

Online application
Apply online through Immigration New Zealand.
Fee payment
Pay NZD 455 application fee.
Processing wait
Wait 2-4 weeks for processing.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Tourist visa (NZeTA - UK Extended Stay)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

e-Visa

Maximum stay: 180 days
Processing time: Up to 72 hours
Fee: NZD 17 (app) or NZD 23 (online) + NZD 100 IVL
Validity: 2 years
Entry: Multiple entry

British citizens are permitted to stay for up to 6 months per visit under the visa waiver programme, compared to 3 months for other visa waiver nationalities. They still require an NZeTA before travel.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be a British citizen holding a valid UK passport.

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 3
Proof of funds
Minimum amount: NZD 1,000 per month
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: No

How to apply

Online application
Apply for NZeTA via the official mobile app or online portal.
Fee payment
Pay NZeTA fee plus NZD 100 International Visitor Levy.
Processing wait
Allow up to 72 hours for processing.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Working Holiday Visa (Extended Age 18-35, 12 months))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: 2-4 weeks
Fee: NZD 455
Validity: 12 months from entry
Entry: Multiple entry

Citizens of Argentina, Chile, Czech Republic, Finland, Hungary, Slovakia, and Uruguay can apply up to age 35 (instead of the standard 30). Same conditions as the standard working holiday visa with 12-month stay.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be a citizen of Argentina, Chile, Czech Republic, Finland, Hungary, Slovakia, or Uruguay.
Age
Must be aged 18-35 at the time of application.

Max age: 35; Min age: 18
Financial
Must have at least NZD 4,200 in available funds.

Minimum funds: NZD 4,200

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 15
Proof of funds
Minimum amount: NZD 4,200
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: No
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Credit/debit card; Amount: NZD 455

How to apply

Online application
Apply online through Immigration New Zealand.
Document submission
Upload passport, proof of funds, insurance, and health certificates if required.
Fee payment
Pay application fee.
Processing wait
Wait 2-4 weeks for processing.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 1825 days
Processing time: 4-7 weeks for straightforward applications
Fee: NZD 1,540
Validity: Up to 5 years (3 years for ANZSCO level 4-5 jobs)
Entry: Multiple entry

Replaced the Essential Skills Work Visa in July 2022. Requires a three-gate process: 1) Employer accreditation, 2) Job check approval, 3) Worker visa application. From March 2025, minimum work experience reduced from 3 to 2 years. Workers must be offered at least 30 hours per week at market rate (minimum NZ minimum wage). From November 2025, the National Occupation List (NOL) replaces ANZSCO for occupation classification. Green List roles are prioritised for processing.

Eligibility

Nationality
Open to all nationalities. The employer must be accredited by Immigration New Zealand and the specific job must pass a job check.
Employment
Must have a qualification at NZQCF level 4 or higher, or at least 2 years of relevant work experience in the same field as the job offered.

Required status: NZQCF level 4+ qualification or 2+ years experience
Criminal record
Must provide valid police certificates. Must be of good character.
Health
Must meet acceptable standard of health requirements.

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 3
Police clearance
Validity months: 6
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Credit/debit card; Amount: NZD 1,540
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No

How to apply

Document gathering
Employer obtains accreditation and job check approval. Gather passport, qualifications, work experience evidence, police certificates, and medical certificates.
Online application
Submit AEWV application online through Immigration New Zealand portal with reference to approved job check.
Document submission
Upload all supporting documents including police certificates, qualifications, and work experience evidence.
Fee payment
Pay the visa application fee of approximately NZD 1,540.
Processing wait
Wait 4-7 weeks for processing. Green List occupation applications are prioritised.
Visa collection
If approved, visa is linked electronically to your passport.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Tourist visa (Australian Citizens Visa-Free Entry)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Processing time: Immediate on arrival
Fee: Free
Validity: Unlimited
Entry: Multiple entry

Australian citizens and permanent residents travelling on an Australian passport do not need a visa or NZeTA to enter New Zealand. They receive a resident visa on arrival under the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement and may live and work in New Zealand indefinitely.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident travelling on an Australian passport.

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 1

How to apply

Document gathering
Ensure you have a valid Australian passport before travelling.

Work / Immigration visa (Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 1-2 months
Fee: NZD 1,630
Validity: Up to 12 months (renewable)
Entry: Multiple entry

For partners (married, civil union, or de facto) of New Zealand citizens or residents. Allows the partner to live and work in New Zealand. Can be used as a stepping stone to the Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa (NZD 5,310, processing 2-13 months), which requires 12 months of living together.

Eligibility

Nationality
Open to all nationalities.
Purpose of visit
Must be in a genuine, stable partnership (married, civil union, or de facto) with a New Zealand citizen or resident. Evidence required: marriage certificate, photos together, joint bank accounts, shared address, travel history together.
Includes
- Partnership with NZ citizen/resident
Health
Must meet acceptable standard of health.
Criminal record
Must be of good character with police certificates.

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 3
Police clearance
Validity months: 6
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Credit/debit card; Amount: NZD 1,630

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather relationship evidence (marriage certificate, photos, joint finances, shared residence proof), police certificates, and medical certificates.
Online application
Submit Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa application online.
Document submission
Upload all relationship evidence and supporting documents.
Fee payment
Pay NZD 1,630 application fee.
Processing wait
Wait 1-2 months for processing.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Working Holiday Visa - Canada (18-35, 23 months))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 700 days
Processing time: 2-4 weeks
Fee: NZD 455
Validity: 23 months from entry
Entry: Multiple entry

Canadian citizens aged 18-35 can stay for up to 23 months on a working holiday visa in New Zealand, significantly longer than the standard 12 months.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be a Canadian citizen.
Age
Must be aged 18-35 at the time of application.

Max age: 35; Min age: 18
Financial
Must have at least NZD 4,200 in available funds and a return ticket.

Minimum funds: NZD 4,200

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 24
Proof of funds
Minimum amount: NZD 4,200
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: No
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Credit/debit card; Amount: NZD 455

How to apply

Online application
Apply online through Immigration New Zealand.
Fee payment
Pay NZD 455 application fee.
Processing wait
Wait 2-4 weeks for processing.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Working Holiday Visa (Standard - 18-30, 12 months))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: 2-4 weeks
Fee: NZD 455
Validity: 12 months from entry
Entry: Multiple entry

Available to young people aged 18-30 from countries with working holiday agreements with New Zealand. Allows travel, work, and study (up to 6 months). Some countries have annual quotas (e.g., Brazil 300, China 1,000, South Korea 3,000, Philippines 100). Must have NZD 4,200 in available funds plus a return ticket or equivalent funds. Austria and Malaysia schemes are for 6 months only.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be a citizen of an eligible working holiday scheme country.
Age
Must be aged 18-30 at the time of application (inclusive).

Max age: 30; Min age: 18
Financial
Must have at least NZD 4,200 in available funds and a return ticket or funds to purchase one.

Minimum funds: NZD 4,200
Health
Must meet health requirements. Chest X-ray may be required.
Visa history
Must not have previously held a working holiday visa for New Zealand from the same scheme.

Required history: No prior NZ working holiday visa

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 15
Proof of funds
Minimum amount: NZD 4,200
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: No
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Credit/debit card; Amount: NZD 455

How to apply

Online application
Apply online through Immigration New Zealand when your country's quota opens (if applicable).
Document submission
Upload passport, proof of funds, travel insurance, and any required health certificates.
Fee payment
Pay application fee (NZD 455 standard, varies by nationality).
Processing wait
Wait 2-4 weeks for processing.
Visa collection
If approved, visa is linked to your passport. Enter New Zealand within 12 months.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Transit visa (Transit Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 1 days
Processing time: 10-15 working days
Fee: NZD 235
Validity: Single transit use
Entry: Single entry

Citizens of countries not on the visa waiver or transit visa waiver lists must apply for a Transit Visa to pass through Auckland Airport. Transit is only available at Auckland International Airport. Passengers must remain in the transit area for a maximum of 24 hours.

Eligibility

Nationality
Required for citizens of countries not eligible for visa waiver or transit visa waiver NZeTA.

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 3
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: No
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Credit/debit card; Amount: NZD 235

How to apply

Online application
Submit transit visa application online through Immigration New Zealand.
Document submission
Upload passport copy and confirmed onward travel details.
Fee payment
Pay NZD 235 application fee.
Processing wait
Wait 10-15 working days for processing.

Student visa (Fee Paying Student Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 5-6 weeks (peak season may be longer)
Fee: NZD 750 + NZD 100 IVL
Validity: Duration of study programme (up to 4 years)
Entry: Multiple entry

For international students enrolled in full-time study at a New Zealand education provider. From 18 August 2025, applications can only be submitted online. Paper-based applications are no longer accepted. Students may work up to 20 hours per week during term and full-time during scheduled breaks. Apply at least 3 months before travel during peak season (October-March).

Eligibility

Nationality
Open to all nationalities. Australian citizens and permanent residents do not need a student visa.
Financial
Must demonstrate sufficient funds: NZD 20,000 per year for living costs plus full tuition fees.

Minimum funds: NZD 20,000 per year
Health
Must meet acceptable standard of health. Medical examination and chest X-ray may be required.
Criminal record
Must be of good character. Police certificates required from countries lived in for 5+ years since age 17.

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 3
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: 35mm x 45mm
Bank statement
Months required: 3
Proof of funds
Minimum amount: NZD 20,000 per year
Admission letter
Must be notarized: No; Must be original: No; Must show program dates: No
Police clearance
Validity months: 6
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Credit/debit card; Amount: NZD 850 total
Proof of enrollment
Provide proof of enrolment or admission from the school, university or training provider.

Must be current: No; Must be original: No

How to apply

Document gathering
Obtain offer of place from NZ education provider, arrange funds evidence, get police certificates and medical examinations if required.
Online application
Create account on Immigration New Zealand online portal and complete the Fee Paying Student Visa application.
Document submission
Upload all supporting documents including offer of place, financial evidence, insurance, police and medical certificates.
Fee payment
Pay application fee (NZD 750) and International Visitor Levy (NZD 100) online.
Processing wait
Wait 5-6 weeks for processing. Peak season (October-March) may take longer. Apply at least 3 months before travel.
Visa collection
If approved, visa is linked electronically to your passport.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Business visa (NZeTA - Business Visit (Visa Waiver Countries))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

e-Visa

Maximum stay: 90 days
Processing time: Up to 72 hours
Fee: NZD 17 (app) or NZD 23 (online) + NZD 100 IVL
Validity: 2 years
Entry: Multiple entry

Citizens of visa waiver countries can use the NZeTA for short-term business visits (meetings, conferences, negotiations) up to 3 months (6 months for UK). Cannot be used for actual employment in New Zealand. APEC Business Travel Card holders from participating economies also benefit from expedited entry.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must hold a passport from one of the 60 visa waiver countries.
Purpose of visit
Business activities limited to meetings, conferences, negotiations, and similar short-term activities. Cannot undertake paid employment.
Includes
- Business meetings
- conferences
- negotiations

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 3

How to apply

Online application
Apply for NZeTA via official app or online portal.
Fee payment
Pay NZeTA fee and NZD 100 IVL.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Tourist visa (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) - Visitor)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

e-Visa

Maximum stay: 90 days
Processing time: Up to 72 hours
Fee: NZD 17 (app) or NZD 23 (online) + NZD 100 IVL
Validity: 2 years
Entry: Multiple entry

Citizens of 60 visa waiver countries can visit New Zealand without a visa but must obtain an NZeTA before travel. UK citizens may stay up to 6 months; all others up to 3 months. The NZeTA is valid for 2 years and allows multiple entries. The International Visitor Levy (IVL) of NZD 100 is payable in addition to the NZeTA processing fee. The IVL was increased from NZD 35 to NZD 100 on 1 October 2024.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must hold a passport from one of the 60 visa waiver countries or territories.
Criminal record
Must not have any criminal convictions. NZeTA application includes character declaration questions.

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 3
Proof of funds
Minimum amount: NZD 1,000 per month
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: No

How to apply

Online application
Apply for NZeTA via the official NZeTA mobile app (NZD 17) or online at nzeta.immigration.govt.nz (NZD 23). Upload a photo and answer character questions.
Fee payment
Pay the NZeTA processing fee and International Visitor Levy (IVL) of NZD 100.
Processing wait
Allow up to 72 hours for processing. Most are approved within minutes.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Medical visa (Medical Treatment Visitor Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 20-25 working days
Fee: NZD 211
Validity: Duration of approved treatment
Entry: Multiple entry

For people seeking to enter New Zealand solely for pre-approved specified medical treatment. Treatment must be at the hospital or institution specified on the visa. Renal dialysis treatment is limited to citizens of South Pacific countries and must be sponsored. Applicant or sponsor must agree to pay for any healthcare. Full medical insurance recommended.

Eligibility

Nationality
Open to all nationalities. Renal dialysis limited to South Pacific country citizens with sponsorship.
Health
Must have confirmed acceptance for medical treatment at a specified New Zealand healthcare facility.
Financial
Must demonstrate ability to pay for treatment and living expenses, or have an acceptable sponsor.

Minimum funds: Varies by treatment
Criminal record
Must be of good character. Police certificates may be required.

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 3
Proof of funds
Minimum amount: Varies based on treatment
Medical certificate
Provide medical evidence from a recognised doctor or clinic when the route asks for health confirmation.
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Credit/debit card; Amount: NZD 211

How to apply

Document gathering
Obtain acceptance letter from New Zealand medical facility, arrange financial evidence or sponsor documentation.
Online application
Submit medical treatment visitor visa application online.
Document submission
Upload medical acceptance letter, financial evidence, sponsorship form if applicable, and character documents.
Fee payment
Pay NZD 211 application fee.
Processing wait
Wait 20-25 working days for processing.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Business visa (Business Investor Work Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 1460 days
Processing time: 3-6 months
Fee: NZD 12,380
Validity: Up to 4 years
Entry: Multiple entry

Opened November 2025, replacing the closed Entrepreneur Work Visa. Two investment pathways: NZD 1 million investment in an existing NZ business (3-year work-to-residence pathway) or NZD 2 million investment (12-month fast-track to residence). Must employ at least 5 full-time equivalent staff. Restricted business types include drop-shipping, gambling, tobacco/vaping, adult entertainment, discount stores, convenience shops, fast food, franchises, and home-based operations. Can include partner and dependent children.

Eligibility

Nationality
Open to all nationalities.
Age
Must be aged 55 or under at the time of application.

Max age: 55; Min age: 0
Financial
Must invest at least NZD 1 million (3-year pathway) or NZD 2 million (12-month pathway) in an eligible New Zealand business and have NZD 500,000 for settlement.

Minimum funds: NZD 1.5 million minimum
Employment
Must have business experience and be able to actively manage the New Zealand business. Must employ at least 5 FTE staff.

Required status: Business experience, employ 5+ FTE

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 48
Proof of funds
Minimum amount: NZD 1,500,000 minimum (NZD 500K settlement + NZD 1M investment)
Police clearance
Validity months: 6
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Credit/debit card; Amount: NZD 12,380
Business plan
Provide a business plan showing the activity, funding, market and expected costs.

Must include financials: No

How to apply

Document gathering
Prepare business plan, financial evidence, police certificates, and medical examinations.
Online application
Submit Business Investor Work Visa application online through Immigration New Zealand.
Document submission
Upload all supporting documents including business plan, proof of investment funds, and character/health evidence.
Fee payment
Pay NZD 12,380 application fee.
Processing wait
Wait 3-6 months for processing and assessment of business viability.
Visa collection
If approved, visa is granted for up to 4 years with pathway to residence.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 40-124 days (prioritised), up to 6 months (standard)
Fee: NZD 6,450
Validity: Permanent residence (resident visa then permanent resident visa after 2 years)
Entry: Multiple entry

Pathway to permanent residence for skilled workers already employed in New Zealand. Requires 6 points from skills, qualifications, income, and NZ work experience. Points can come from income (3-6 points based on multiples of median wage), NZ occupational registration, qualifications, or NZ work experience (1-3 points). Expression of Interest (EOI) required first at NZD 530. Changes coming in August 2026 will reduce NZ work experience requirement from 3 to 2 years maximum.

Eligibility

Nationality
Open to all nationalities. Must already be working in New Zealand on a valid work visa.
Employment
Must be currently employed in skilled work in New Zealand. Must earn at least 1.5 times the median wage (NZD 50.34/hour) for minimum points claim.

Required status: Skilled employment at 1.5x median wage minimum
Financial
Points are awarded based on income level: 6 points at 3x median wage (NZD 100.68/hr), 4 points at 2x (NZD 67.12/hr), 3 points at 1.5x (NZD 50.34/hr).

Minimum funds: NZD 50.34/hour minimum
Health
Must meet acceptable standard of health. Full medical and chest X-ray required.
Criminal record
Must be of good character with police certificates from all relevant countries.

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 6
Police clearance
Validity months: 6
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Credit/debit card; Amount: NZD 6,980 total
Curriculum vitae
Provide a current CV showing education, work history and relevant qualifications.
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No

How to apply

Online application
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) online with NZD 530 fee. Must claim at least 6 points.
Processing wait
Wait for EOI to be selected from the pool (selections happen regularly).
Document gathering
Once selected, gather all evidence: employment verification, qualifications, police certificates, medical certificates.
Document submission
Submit full residence application with all supporting documents within 4 months of selection.
Fee payment
Pay NZD 6,450 application fee for full residence application.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Tourist visa (Visitor Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 270 days
Processing time: 20-25 working days
Fee: NZD 211 + NZD 100 IVL
Validity: Up to 9 months (single entry) or 6 months (multiple entry)
Entry: Multiple entry

Citizens of countries not on the visa waiver list must apply for a Visitor Visa before travelling to New Zealand. The visa can be granted for up to 9 months (single entry) or 6 months (multiple entry). Applications are submitted online. The International Visitor Levy (IVL) of NZD 100 is also payable.

Eligibility

Nationality
Available to citizens of countries not on the visa waiver list who wish to visit New Zealand for tourism, visiting family/friends, or short-term business.
Financial
Must demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay (minimum NZD 1,000 per month).

Minimum funds: NZD 1,000 per month
Health
May need to provide a chest X-ray or medical examination depending on nationality and length of stay.
Criminal record
Must be of good character. May need to provide police certificates from countries lived in for 5+ years since age 17.

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 3
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: 35mm x 45mm
Bank statement
Months required: 3
Proof of funds
Minimum amount: NZD 1,000 per month
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Must cover full stay: No
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: No
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Credit/debit card; Amount: NZD 311 total

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather passport, photos, financial evidence, accommodation proof, flight details, and any required medical/police certificates.
Online application
Create an account on Immigration New Zealand's online portal and complete the visitor visa application form.
Document submission
Upload all supporting documents through the online application system.
Fee payment
Pay the application fee (NZD 211) and International Visitor Levy (NZD 100) online.
Processing wait
Wait approximately 20-25 working days for a decision. Additional documents may be requested.
Visa collection
If approved, the visa is linked electronically to your passport. Print confirmation for your records.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

This information is provided for general guidance only. Visa requirements can change frequently and may vary by nationality. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for assistance.