Journalist visa · Western Sahara to New Zealand

Specific Purpose Work Visa - Journalist/Media

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

1. Document gathering

   Obtain assignment letter from media organisation, prepare passport and supporting documents.

2. Online application

   Submit Specific Purpose Work Visa application online through Immigration New Zealand.

3. Document submission

   Upload assignment letter, cover letter, and passport details.

4. Fee payment

   Pay approximately NZD 635 application fee.

5. Processing wait

   Wait 20-25 working days for processing.

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

This information is general guidance only and can change frequently. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for help.