immigration nz tourist visa

Visas and entry requirements

Visas, New Zealand

By Tourism New Zealand

Learn more about the available visa options and entry requirements into Aotearoa New Zealand, including the New Zealand Traveller Declaration.

Aotearoa New Zealand enjoys welcoming visitors (manuhiri) to our beautiful country.

Having a valid passport, the right visa and completing the entry requirements are key to a trouble-free entry into New Zealand.

Your passport has to be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date, and if required, have a valid New Zealand visa .

On this page, you'll find helpful information on:

• Arriving in New Zealand
• Visitor visa for a holiday
• Working holiday visa
• Transit visa (through New Zealand or Australia)

New Zealand visa options

Visiting new zealand for a holiday.

You do not need a visa to visit New Zealand if you are:

• A New Zealand citizen travelling on a New Zealand passport or on a foreign passport that has a New Zealand citizen endorsement
• An Australian citizen travelling on an Australian passport
• A foreign passport holder with a valid visa for New Zealand - including a Permanent Resident visa

If you plan to visit New Zealand for a short period, you need to request a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (opens in new window) (NZeTA) before you travel if you are:

• A citizen of a country which has a visa waiver (opens in new window) agreement with New Zealand (you can stay up to three months)

If you don’t meet the above, then you’ll need a visitor visa. The fastest and easiest way to apply for a visitor visa (opens in new window) is online.

Before travelling to New Zealand, you need to make sure your passport is valid for at least three months longer than your expected departure date.

Be sure to request your NZeTA (opens in new window) , or apply for your visitor visa well in advance of travel to avoid delays, and only use the official NZeTA website to request your New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority.

For more information on cost and processing times, visit the official NZeTA website .

If you have a biometric ordinary passport (or electronic passport) and are over 12 years old, you may be able to use New Zealand Customs eGate service. This allows you to complete your Customs and Immigration checks faster so you can get on with enjoying your visit to New Zealand.

Essential travel information

Working holidays.

Working holiday visas (opens in new window) are available to young people, usually aged 18-30 (but 18-35 for a select few nationalities). They let you travel and work in New Zealand for up to 12 months, or 23 months if you’re from the UK. To apply you’ll need to meet the visa requirements, and have:

• A return ticket, or enough money to pay for one; and 
• Be coming mainly to holiday, with work being a secondary intention.

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Work visas and staying permanently

If you’re thinking of coming to New Zealand to work for a few years, or maybe even to settle, you’ll need a work or resident visa. To get that – you’re likely to need a job.

For information about working in New Zealand, including industry profiles, tips on job hunting, and a list of job sites to check out, visit New Zealand Now. (opens in new window)

Transiting through New Zealand or Australia

If you are travelling to New Zealand via an Australian airport, you may also need an Australian visa – consult your travel agent or airline if you are unsure.

Transit visas (opens in new window) will also be needed for all people travelling via New Zealand, unless they are specifically exempted by immigration policy.

More information about visas

The visa and immigration information on this page is just a summary. For everything you need to know about coming to New Zealand, visit Immigration New Zealand. (opens in new window)

Find out if you need a visa

Arriving in Aotearoa New Zealand

Everyone entering New Zealand needs to complete a  New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) (opens in new window)  including babies and children.

Traveller Declaration requirements (opens in new window)

It’s free and you can complete it on the NZTD website or by downloading the NZTD app ahead of your travel.

You can start your NZTD at a time that suits you. If arriving by plane, the earliest you can submit your declaration is 24 hours before you start your trip to New Zealand. An NZTD needs to be submitted by the time you reach New Zealand passport control.

If arriving by boat (including cruise ships), the earliest you can submit your NZTD is 24 hours before departing the vessel’s last foreign port prior to arriving in New Zealand.

It needs to be submitted by the time the vessel has berthed at its first port in New Zealand. ​

If you apply for a visa or NZeTA, you still need to complete an NZTD (opens in new window) .

Here's how to complete your declaration online. 

The form is available in English and Te Reo Māori, as well as simplified and traditional Chinese Mandarin. 

From April 2024, the form will be in 12 more languages: Hindi, Samoan, Fijian, French, German, Japanese, Korean, Malay, Tagalog, Tamil, Tongan, and Portuguese.

Paper NZTD forms will be available for travellers who cannot complete it online.

Fill out your NZ Traveller Declaration

What you can bring into New Zealand

After you’ve cleared passport control, you should collect your baggage and proceed through customs and biosecurity checks. In order to protect New Zealand and its environment, certain items are not allowed to be brought into the country, have restrictions for entry or must be declared if they are deemed to present a biosecurity risk. These include food, plants, animal products and outdoor recreational equipment.

Your baggage may be sniffed by a detector dog and/or x-rayed, and it may be searched to identify any risk goods you might be carrying.

To avoid penalties it is best to familiarise yourself with these guidelines prior to travel. For a detailed list of prohibited, restricted or declarable items, please visit Ministry for Primary Industries (opens in new window) (biosecurity agency).

Allowances and duty free concessions

As a visitor to New Zealand you may be entitled to various concessions and duty free entries on some of your goods. If you are 17 years or older, you are entitled to allowances for alcohol, cigarettes and tobacco. For detailed information on allowances and duty free concessions, please visit New Zealand Customs (opens in new window) .

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Apply online for your visa

Whether you’re coming to New Zealand to visit, study, work or live, you’ll know there are a few things you need to get sorted.

The good news is that you can apply for your visa online, and it’s now easier than ever before. In fact, it’s faster and cheaper than a paper application, leaving you more time to plan the fun stuff.

No matter if you’re coming from Shanghai or Suva – you can apply for your visa online from anywhere, at any time. And if you’re already in New Zealand and want to stay longer, you can apply for that too.

To get started, visit the immigration website to find out if you need a visa, and the requirements you’ll need to meet.

To apply, you’ll need to upload your documents, a passport-style photo, and pay with a credit or debit card.

We can’t start processing your visa unless everything’s there, so double check you’ve included all the required documents before you press submit.

You can even start your application, save it, and finish it later.

Once you’ve submitted your application, we’ll let you know if you need to send us your passport, or if we can issue an e-visa. Simple!

So jump online, get started and we’ll see you soon. 

Most work, student and visitor visas can be applied for online. Applying online is often faster and less expensive than sending in a paper application form. When you apply online we can also issue your visa electronically so you won't have to send us your passport.

If you apply online, you'll need to have a credit card ready, and any supporting evidence, like a copy of your passport, will need to be available in an electronic file.

To apply online, visit the Immigration New Zealand website.

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• Your journey to New Zealand

Find out how to prepare for your travel to New Zealand — who needs an NZeTA, the identity documents and evidence you need, and what happens when you arrive.

Preparing a visa application

• The application process

Before you travel to New Zealand

Arriving in new zealand, if you are a premium loyalty programme member, visiting new zealand on business.

• Identity and character
• Financial arrangements
• English language
• Bringing or joining family
• Studying in New Zealand
• Working in New Zealand
• Living in New Zealand

To board your flight or cruise to New Zealand you need a valid passport or travel document, and have the right visa or an NZeTA.

When you arrive in New Zealand, you must apply for entry permission and answer questions about biosecurity and customs.

Premium loyalty programme partnerships are currently under review and will be closed until further notice.

If you plan to travel to New Zealand on business, check to see if you need a visa or an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority).

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Visas for New Zealand

Everyone's journey to New Zealand is different.

There are many factors to consider when you decide which visa option is best for you, including:

• when you want to come and how long you want to stay
• your country of origin
• your health
• your work and study plans, and
• if you want to bring your partner or family with you to New Zealand. 

Below is a brief explanation of our main visa categories.

Like any other country, New Zealand’s visas can often change. Political, economic and social factors can influence the rules at any time.

You can learn more about the requirements for each visa and about which one is best for you on the Immigration New Zealand website.

Explore visa options | Immigration New Zealand

Visitor Visa and  NZeTA

The default visa for short term casual travellers is a visitor visa usually valid for 3 or 6 months.

You can’t work – you’re here for a good time and to see the country.

The NZeTA (New Zealand electronic Travel Authority) is for visitors from visa-free countries and arrivals on cruise ships.

Visitor Visa | Immigration New Zealand Information about NZeTA | Immigration New Zealand

Short term business visa

If you are visiting New Zealand for business reasons, you can apply for a Business Visitor Visa.

The visa is valid for up to 3 months.

Information about Business Visitor Visa | Immigration New Zealand

Working Holiday Visa

Working holiday visas are available to young people, usually aged 18 to 30, but 18 to 35 in a select few countries.

They let you travel and work in New Zealand for up to 12 months from most countries, 23 months if you are from Canada, and 36 months if you are from the UK.

Working Holiday Visas | Immigration New Zealand

Student visas

Mostly for tertiary students to come and attend a full-time course of study in New Zealand.

You need a student visa, if you plan to study in New Zealand for more than 3 months. 

You can visit the NauMai NZ website to find more information about being an international student in New Zealand.

Explore visa options to study | Immigration New Zealand

Home | NauMai NZ

Resident visas

We have a range of visas that may allow you live in New Zealand permanently.

One of these options is the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa.

This visa is considered through a points-based system. Potential migrants submit an Expression of Interest (EOI), if they are successful, Immigration New Zealand will send you an Invitation to Apply (ITA).  

Residence visa qualifications, as with other visas, vary depending on the overall benefits to New Zealand at that time.  For most new migrants successfully employed in qualifying professions through other temporary work visas, pathways to residence are clear.

There are also resident visa options for partners and family of New Zealand citizens and residents.

Visas that allow you to live permanently in New Zealand | Immigration New Zealand

We have a range of visas that allow you to work in New Zealand.

Explore visa options to work | Immigration New Zealand

Accredited Employer Work Visa

The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is designed to ensure only good employers can hire migrant workers and helps prevent migrant exploitation.

Information about Accredited Employer Work Visa | Immigration New Zealand 

Accreditation process

Employers must get their businesses and jobs accredited before they can employ migrants.

To get accredited, they go through a financial and business background check.

Accredited employers can then offer their approved jobs to suitable migrants.

Applying for an AEWV

You can apply for an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) if you have a job offer from an accredited employer, the skills and qualifications for the job, and a link to the application form.

Immigration New Zealand does the usual visa checks prior to final approval of the AEWV.

Accredited Employer Work Visa - information for migrant workers | Immigration New Zealand

Interested in coming to New Zealand?

Take the first step to a new life by registering your interest with Immigration New Zealand. We’ll send you personalised emails about job opportunities in your profession, life in New Zealand and choosing the right visa.

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Language English

Check if you need a visitor visa or an NZeTA

If you come to New Zealand on holiday, you'll need to get either a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) or a visitor visa — unless you're an Australian citizen.

• How to apply for a visitor visa (external link)
• How to request an NZeTA (external link)
• How to pay the International Visitor Levy (external link)
• Immigration New Zealand (external link)

US and Mexico citizens travelling on valid "regular" passports do not have to pay visa fees for visitor, work, or student visas.

All applicants are required to pay VAC fees of US$38 per application.

There are three available options for people enquiring about applying for a visa for New Zealand, or enquiring if a visa is needed:

• The Immigration New Zealand website (external link) . This website not only answers all questions relating to New Zealand visas, but is now also the portal through which an applicant can apply for their visa - through the Online system. By selecting the "Contact Us" option the enquirer can also access the Knowledge Base Q&A section of the website.
• Call the Immigration Contact Centre (ICC) in New Zealand at 011 64 9 914 4100. The ICC is operated 24 hours a day for 365 days of the year. It has staff fluent in various languages that are fully trained in all aspects of immigration policy and procedure.
• Call the Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Washington DC at +1 202 223 3400. These questions should be limited to procedure - such as feeds, postal addresses, etc. The website for the VAC is  https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/nzl/attend-centre/Washington%20DC (external link)

Visa Application Centre (VAC) Washington DC

Address:  1120 19th Street NW, Suite No. 415 Washington DC 20036 Phone:  1 202 223 3400 Fax:  1 202 223 3900 Email:  [email protected] Website:  https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/nzl/attend-centre/Washington%20DC (external link) Office hours: Monday to Friday 9.00am to 4.00pm

Working holiday visas

The United States Working Holiday Visa can now be applied for online. If you are between 18 - 30, please see the New Zealand Immigration website for the online application form and instructions (external link) .

Mexico Working Holiday Visa can now be applied for online. If you are between 18 - 30, please see the following FAQ  for instructions.

There are also two private companies that offer an exchange programme for young United States citizens wanting to work in New Zealand:

• BUNAC (external link) offers a work exchange programme for United States citizens aged between 18 and 35.
• CCUSA (external link)   offers a work exchange programme for United States citizens aged between 18 and 30.
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General Visitor Visa

If you want to learn about General Visitor Visa , you've come to the right place.

This guide has everything you need to understand the basics of General Visitor Visa . You'll also find links to useful resources from our blog and video throughout, so you can plan your next steps. If you still have questions, contact Immigration Lawyer NZ .

What is it?

With a visitor visa NZ, you can stay in New Zealand for a maximum period of nine months in an 18 month cycle (counting back from expiry date of proposed visa). In certain cases, you may be able to stay 12 months in an 24 months cycle. Often Immigration New Zealand will raise questions whether you are coming to New Zealand for a lawful purpose, in which case you will need to communicate clearly as to why you are coming and try to persuade them that you are unlikely to overstay.

You will need to satisfy each of the following requirements:

• meet general requirements; and
• meet funds requirements; and
• meet outward travel requirements (if relevant); and
• coming to New Zealand for a lawful purpose.

Let's take a look at each in turn.

How does it work?

Certain countries have been classified as 'visa-waiver' countries which means people from those countries do not need to obtain a visitor visa when coming to New Zealand. Their visitor visas will be issued for three months upon entry, as long as the purpose of visit is for a lawful purpose.

What are the requirements?

General requirements of visitor visa include paying correct application fee, using prescribed Immigration New Zealand form, meeting health/character requirements, and being a 'bona fide' (genuine) applicant.

You will need to have available funds of at least $1,000 per each month you are intending to stay in New Zealand. If your accommodation has been pre-paid, then $400 per month. Alternatively, you could provide sponsorship from eligible sponsors.

Outward travel

You will need to show that you have the means to leave New Zealand when the visa expires. This could be satisfied by way of travel ticket, sufficient funds to purchase a travel ticket, sponsorship, etc.

Lawful purpose

You must be coming to New Zealand for a lawful purpose, which include - holidaying, sightseeing, family and social visits, amateur sport, business consultation, medical treatment, or guest of government visits. You must not be intending to undertake employment, or a course of study (with exception of short-term studies).

Just Imagine.

We're here to help., related inz forms.

• INZ 1224 - Visitor Visa Declaration Form
• INZ 1025 - Sponsorship Form for Temporary Entry

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Bona Fide & How To Write One (To Get Your New Zealand Visitor Visa)

Depending on which country you’re from, you can stay in New Zealand for 3 months under a Visitor Visa. But what if circumstances cause you to stay there for longer than 3 months? This is when you need to write a bona fide.

Hence, this post is for you if you need to write up a bona fide to get a visitor’s visa (specifically the one for New Zealand).

It may also serve as a useful reference even if you are not going to New Zealand.

PS: If you want to see the other types of visas that New Zealand offers:

We have a handy comparison table in our previous post, Working Holiday visa for New Zealand .

Explore this post:

• Types of visitor visa New Zealand
• Requirements for visitor visa New Zealand
• What is a bonafide?
• Why do you need a bona fide?
• Bona fide sample letter
• Guidelines to writing a bona fide for a New Zealand visitor visa

Why Did My Bona Fide Get Rejected By The NZ Immigration?

Types of visitor visa new zealand.

To put it simply, this visa will allow you to travel in New Zealand for a maximum of 9 months . You can visit friends, go for a sports event, etc.

And you can even study for a total of 3 months.

But there should absolutely be no working on your part – not for food, money or accommodation.

There are 2 types of Visitor Visa in New Zealand:

Visa Waiver Visitor Visa (Waiver Country)

As of 1 October, 2019 anyone from the 60 waiver countries listed will now have to pay for an NZeTA to enter New Zealand. That includes Malaysia! More details below under requirements for a visitor visa to New Zealand.

The maximum number of months you can stay in New Zealand with this visa is 3 months for non-UK citizens. UK citizens get to stay up to 6 months with this visa.

You don’t need any documentation except your passport and a return ticket for this visa when you arrive at the immigration in New Zealand.

And if all goes well, you should get a stamp in your passport from the respective officer.

For this visa, it is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT that you fill out your arrival card as honestly as possible.

• It’s possible to extend your stay in New Zealand (e.g. after your 6 months’ working holiday is complete) with this visa.
• However, if you’re already in New Zealand: y ou’ll have to first fly out of the country first and show proof of sufficient funds (for up to 3 months, including your return ticket or the ticket receipt).

But this blog post is mainly focusing on the other type of visitor visa:

Visitor Visa

This visa cost me $165 NZD back in 2018 and lets you stay in New Zealand for a maximum of 9 months.

Note: As of 17th May 2022, the cost of applying for the visitor visa increased to $246.

Provided that you have not already exceeded a total of 9 months’ stay in New Zealand in an 18 month period.

In contrast to the previous Visitor Visa (Country Waiver):

You need all sorts of paperwork as evidence that you will be a genuine visitor.

Don’t put this off to the last minute because it really does take the immigration office a long time to process applications for the Visitor Visa.

For your reference, I submitted my application in May 21, 2018 and got the Visa in June 13, 2018 – a total of 18 working days.

• If rejected, you must apply for the Visa again (and pay$246 fee again – ouch).
• Read the guidelines on the official site carefully before applying.
• Try to apply at least a month ahead of your intended start date too.

Requirements For Visitor Visa New Zealand

Nzeta and ivl for visa waiver travellers.

What is this the NZeTA?

All would-be visitors (including transit) to New Zealand must check if they need an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before going to New Zealand.

Besides this NZeTA, you may have to pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) too.

Who’s applicable?

• Anyone visiting or in-transit from a visa waiver country (see the list of visa waiver countries )
• Permanent residents of Australia
• Anyone travelling on a passport from a transit visa waiver country who will be in transit through Auckland International Airport on the way out to another country
• Even cruise ship passengers from visa waiver countries must have an NZeTA.

Who’s not applicable for the NZeTa?

• Anyone who needs a visa for New Zealand or is already holding a valid one (this includes a Permanent Resident Visa)
• New Zealand citizens
• Australian citizen travelling with Australia passport

How do I apply for the NZeTa?

There are 2 methods:

• NZeTA online request system on immigration.govt.nz
• Download the immigration App and apply through there.

When to apply for the NZeTa:

It takes up to 72 hours for your NZeTA to be approved so do so way before your trip to avoid being barred from boarding the plane!

How much will application cost?

The cost of the IVL (International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy) will be NZD $35 and will be charged together in the same transaction as your NZeTA:

If you apply online , it will be NZD $12 + NZD $35 = NZD $47

And if you apply through their app , it will be NZD $9 + NZD $35 = NZD $44

How long are my NZeTA and IVL valid for?

They are valid for multiple visits and up to a maximum of 2 years .

Criteria You Have To Meet For A Visitor Visa

• Be able to prove your identity
• Have good health or acknowledge (and prove) that you will pay for your own health care
• Most importantly, you have to be a genuine tourist – no funny business or working under table.
• You can apply for your family in the same application but you have to pay the fees per head
• Prove that you have sufficient funds needed to travel around and a ticket to get out of New Zealand later (or have evidence of a sponsorship)
• No major criminal offenses or previous denial to a visa from another country – you might be able to talk your way out of this one through your bona fide but there is no guarantee

You also need these:

Paperwork For A New Zealand Visitor Visa

These are the things you have to upload together with your online application on the official New Zealand immigration website:

Tip: The client number is not the visa waiver stamp number on your passport in case you are wondering. You can leave this blank unless you do have one from a previous application.

• Bona fide letter
• Chest x-ray documentation – it cost me $160 to do it in Auckland (back in 2018). If it’s cheaper in your own country, do that instead. Check the official website for the list of panel clinics in your country.
• Resume or CV – it goes without saying that this should be your most recent resume
• Bank statement –  at least $1000 NZD** for every month (per person and including accommodation) you intend to stay (not including the money for the flight tickets!)
• A scanned softcopy of your passport (make sure your passport validity covers the duration of your intended stay!)
• Passport photo – Save some money and do this in your own country.

It cost me $25 NZD to get it done at the post office in a small town in New Zealand. Check out the passport photo do’s and don’t’s on the official website first !

**Alternatively, you just need to show that you have:

• At least $400 NZD per month per person together with proof of payment for your accommodation in New Zealand
• A financial sponsor to cover you during your stay in New Zealand

More Information On The Chest X-ray Requirement

• The clinic submitted the x-ray form to the immigration office on my behalf.
• Note that your x-ray must come from a panel clinic listed on the official New Zealand immigration website.
• When I last checked, there were only two acceptable clinics for Malaysia. One was a clinic in Kuala Lumpur and another one was located in Penang.
• Auckland however, has many panel clinics – the one I went to was walking distance from my rented house.

What Is A Bonafide?

To start with, a bona fide can be a cover letter that explains your background and purpose of visiting the country that you wish to apply for.

It may also include your future plans after your intended time in the country you visit. And that is the case if you want to apply for a New Zealand visitor visa.

The bona fide should serve to clear any doubts the immigration may have on your true intentions:

You can therefore also explain why you don’t intend to permanently immigrate to New Zealand. For example, proof of a steady business in your home country. Or several properties that you own and manage in your own country.

Another important reason for a bonafide is to prove that you have the financial means to support yourself during your stay in New Zealand (without having to work there), and be able to fly out of the country on the designated date.

Why Do You Need A Bona fide?

New Zealand immigration requires a black and white softcopy of such a document.

You can upload it online together with the other documents listed above. After making a RealMe account (an easy and straightforward process in itself).

Use the bona fide letter to tie all your evidence together (not literally, of course!).

When I wrote my own bona fide, I wasn’t sure whether it would even be approved or not. There were no templates to follow and the instructions on the official New Zealand immigration site were very general.

Move on to the next section in this post if you want to know how to write your own bona fide cover letter.

PS: We don’t offer bona fide cover letter services. I’ve gotten a few requests which I declined.

Bona Fide Sample Letter

Disclaimer – Using this template or following the guidelines below will not guarantee your success in obtaining a visa (from whichever country you are trying to apply for) by using this template. I’m just sharing what worked for me back in 2018 when I successfully applied and obtained an extended visitor visa (with just one application) to stay longer in New Zealand with my then-boyfriend who had a NZ Working Holiday Visa.

You can use this as a base template for your own bona fide.

Want more details?

Guidelines To Writing A Bona Fide For A New Zealand Visitor Visa

I based the following guidelines on what I could piece together from various sources online.

• Firstly, state why you want the visitor visa. (e.g. for me, my main reason was to follow my then-boyfriend who successfully obtained a working holiday visa. I included his visa application number here at this point.) Mention what you plan to do while in New Zealand. It should be very clear that you are not going to set up a business or work part time while you are there.
• Include a summary of your travel plans – just put it into one of your first paragraphs. If you have a detailed plan, you can attached it together with the cover letter.
• Next, write something on your family background. The purpose is to show that your roots are still in your own country and it’s highly unlikely you would move to New Zealand.
• Education background – short summary will do
• Working background – write a short summary on your working history and add your current resume to the upload
• Health background – if you have any major ailments, here is where you can mention those. I think you will have a higher chance of getting your visa approved if you’re relatively healthy. Otherwise, make sure your bank statements reflect that you can cover your own medical expenses.
• Travel background – your intention to travel to New Zealand for a holiday appears more credible if you have already been to other countries for a holiday before. List them down together with the year and month of travel as well as the duration of each trip. State what the purpose of each trip was and if you had any problems obtaining a Visa for those. Drop old Visa numbers here if you still have them.

Tip: Please make sure to include how long you want to stay (an exact date would be best). Do not take for granted that they will grant you 9 months – they won’t . Ask for multiple entry as well.

Ending Your Bona Fide Cover Letter For A Visitor Visa

Besides all of the above, I added more details on our travel plans (by month) in New Zealand as well as our current  New Zealand address and phone number. I even put our camper car’s license plate number and my boyfriend’s New Zealand working history.

If you need to leave New Zealand and re-enter again during your holiday duration in New Zealand, please request for it.

Explain why you would need a multiple-entry Visa . Put down the exact date you plan to leave New Zealand (i.e. the last day of your holiday) if you can too. They will not grant you 9 months by default.

At the very end of my bona fide cover letter, I shared my future travel plans after New Zealand to emphasize that I would not be migrating to New Zealand in the future.

My last point was to drop my email address and ask them to contact me if there were any questions (They didn’t have any questions though).

After writing your letter, covert it into a pdf and upload it together with the other documents.

As of May 2022, visa application processing for the Visitor Visa can take anywhere between 44 days to 5 months. Check here for the latest update .

Back in 2018, it was 21 days and if successful, you should get an email from the New Zealand immigration that contains your client number and your visitor visa. The expiry date will be clearly stated too.

Moreover, if you did request for multiple-entry and the request got through, it will be stated there too. Good luck in your application!

Making Changes After Your Visa Has Been Approved

Let’s say you need to change your visa conditions to multiple-entry. Or, you want to extend further.

Here are some things to consider:

• You have to pay the fee of $165 NZD again (now $246 NZD) and submit online again but with the previous supporting documents with some exceptions (e.g. update bank statement and cover letter)
• The X-ray certificate is valid for up to 3 years
• Use the same passport photo you uploaded last time if you still look the same.

Before you go through all the effort of extending your current visitor visa, consider the possibility of flying out of New Zealand before the end of your visa and coming back with the visitor waiver visa.

For example, if your visitor visa happens to end on Jan 1, 2019. You could fly out of New Zealand and come back with the visitor visa (waiver country) then.

But what if you’ve already used the visitor visa (waiver) before?

According to the immigration officer I called, my visitor waiver visa record (I previously used 2 of 3 allowed months) reset when I obtained the longer visitor visa.

In fact, he said as long as I leave the country before Jan 1, 2019, I could come back in using my refreshed visitor waiver visa (i.e. another 3 months).

Don’t forget:

The same conditions still apply for the visitor waiver visa – e.g. return ticket out of New Zealand and proof of sufficient funds during your visit to New Zealand

Working Holiday Visa For New Zealand

Or you could try your luck with the Working Holiday visa (if you were never successfully granted one before and you are still less than 31 years old.

If you already have one and it’s time to extend it, do check out our post about how to extend your New Zealand working holiday visa (and some conditions to meet) .

The immigration office will unfortunately not state the reason for your application getting rejected.

So to answer this question, think back on what you wrote in your bona fide. Did you give them reason to suspect your real intentions of going to New Zealand?

Reasons A Bona Fide Will Be Rejected By The NZ Immigration

Here are some possible reasons why your bona fide was rejected based on what is listed on the NZ immigration official website (and also my own thoughts on the matter):

• Evidence and content in your bona fide (as well as previous applications) don’t match up
• There is cause to believe that your actual reason for visiting New Zealand is false (e.g., different from you wrote on your visa application or arrival card) or unlawful
• It appears doubtful that you will follow the conditions of your visa (e.g., previous visa rejection from another country, lack of sufficient funds, previous breach of visa conditions, etc)
• You are missing some necessary documents to return to your home country (this is why having a return flight ticket might increase your chances of getting your application approved)
• You’ve exceed the maximum length of stay possible for your circumstances and country of origin
• Your country of origin is not in the visa waiver country list (this might affect your chances of success)
• Your passport validity is not long enough (I.e., expiry date must be at least 3 months after the indented date of your visit)

When they say lawful purposes, they mean any of the following – you are going to New Zealand simply for a holidaying or sightseeing, to visit friends and relatives, training or studying in New Zealand for 3 months or less, for your wedding or a business consultation, or to participate in an amateur sports event.

Other reasons they may accept include getting medical treatment in New Zealand. Or if you have a personal invitation from the the NZ government.

Whatever, the reason, you are NOT ALLOWED to work in New Zealand during the duration of your stay if you are holding a Visitor Visa.

Note: Applicable to both Visa Waiver Visitor Visa and Visitor Visa

Furthermore, if you’re travelling with a partner, you have to prove your relationship (a screenshot of your chat history is not good enough) and they must have a clear record too (e.g. following their visa conditions, no previous visa rejections or criminal records, etc).

By now, you should at least know how to get started on your New Zealand bona fide – that pesky (but unfortunately crucial) letter that stands between you and a visitor visa.

Don’t forget to specify exactly when you want the visa to end (no more than 9 months in a 12 month period). Or else, the immigration office will do it for you and they will put the bare minimum (the date of your flight).

We really recommend you to call the NZ immigration office yourself before your trip as they have the latest information on visas. It takes a while to get through to the office so list down all your questions first!

You may also like:

Need a rain and windproof jacket to serve your time in New Zealand, regardless of the weather? We recommend the Uniqlo Blocktech Parka – see our review here .

Planning your trip to New Zealand? You might need to read these:

Fiordland is a a little hard to get to but worth it. Here’s how you can make the most of your trip in Fiordland on a budget .

If you’re still sitting on the fence on whether you should buy a secondhand camper car in New Zealand …

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13 Comments

Hi, what about a group visa? As a group leader do I to provide all my member with each individual Bona Fide letter or can I simply write one for all. Thanks

Hello Anon, Thanks for your question.

Applying by group just needs one bona fide letter, I believe.

By the way, I have also asked the immigration office before, you still have to pay the application fee per head either way. In case you were thinking it might save some money.

Hope that helps. Thanks.

More information on group applications here, point 4 under Group application s>> https://www.immigration.govt.nz/about-us/our-online-systems/applying-for-a-visa-online/immigration-online/how-to-use-immigration-online/group-applications

Looks like you can submit one cover letter (bona fide) for your whole group.

please can your share us the proper written bonafide of yours.

Hi Param, for personal reasons, I won’t share my bonafide. However, I have already shared the format to be used as a template on my post. Just let them have proof that you don’t intend to secretly move to New Zealand or set up a business. Show that you have good reasons to go back to your country after your trip. Share your past trip history (with visa numbers if you have any), I wrote many other tips on my blog. Do read through, thanks!

Hi, my parents applied for a visitors visa with all supporting documents but have declined stating whether or not the applicant for temporary entry or entry permission is a bona fide applicant. What can be done? i shall apply again but what more documents should i put since they are retired. I

There may be many reasons for a rejection of a bona fide: 1. Supporting documents are not official or don’t look authentic 2. No clear travel plan provided – it must be very clear that your parents are only there for a holiday

If you need more help, I have already shared the format of my Bona fide in the post, to be used as a template. Basically,just let them have solid proof that you don’t intend to secretly move to New Zealand or set up a business. Show that you have good reasons to go back to your country after your trip. Share your past trip history (with visa numbers if you have any), I wrote many other tips on my blog. Do read through, thanks!

Hi dear, I am applying visit visa to New Zealand please guide me which documents i need .please share with me Bona fide format.i am living in saudi arabia from last 10 years and working in telecom job.plz advice

Thanks Ashfaq Ahmad

Hello Ashfaq, the format is already on the blog post. Thanks.

Thank you so much for this blog. I am a Kiwi and my boyfriend is Indonesian. Our first visa application got denied due to lack of evidence, which was so frustrating. This blog really helped us understand the bona fide aspect and provide more information. Thankfully, we got a 2-month visa on the second try and are in NZ now, the first time I have seen my family in three years!

Hi Carly, I’m glad our article helped you! You and your family take care <3

Hi . Thank you for your info. It would be wonderfull if you could guide me for a visitor visa to visit my fiance who has a resident visa in NZ. During covid-19 outbreak no visitor visa is processing . And we are really frustrated

Hi Noosh, thanks for your inquiry. However, we’re really out of touch with the current Visitor VISA process. Since it’s been 2 years since we applied for it. We would recommend that you call the NZ Immigration office instead. Thanks and wish you the best of luck in getting the VISA!

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NZ Tourist Visa: Do You Need a Visa to Visit New Zealand?

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, a guide to the tourist visa (visitor visa) and the nzeta for new zealand.

It’s no secret that the New Zealand borders are pretty strict. Nevertheless, the vast majority of visitors to New Zealand. i.e. people visiting to travel and explore, do not need to apply for a Visitor Visa (Tourist Visa) before arriving in the country. They do, however, need to pay for the NZeTA . Alternatively, there are certain nationalities that will need to apply for a Visitor Visa before arrival. Sounds complicated? We aim to break it down and make the visa process easier to understand in this guide to visas for visiting New Zealand.

What is a Visitor Visa For and How Long Can You Stay in New Zealand on a Tourist Visa?

“Visiting” New Zealand refers to someone temporarily staying in New Zealand without working in the country. The maximum time you can stay in New Zealand as a visitor depends on what country you are from. Read our quick guide below to find out what you need to visit New Zealand.

You Do Not Need to Get a Tourist Visa if…

If any of the following circumstances apply to you, you do not need to apply for a visitor visa (tourist visa) to New Zealand. Some of them are pretty darn obvious, but we will list them to cover all the bases.

• You are a New Zealand or Australian citizen
• You have a New Zealand resident visa
• You have a New Zealand permanent resident visa
• You have an Australian permanent residence visa
• You have an Australian resident return visa (excludes Australian temporary or provisional residence visa)
• You are from a visa-waiver country (see below).

There are also exceptions for people, for example, who are air flight crew, military, cruise ship passengers, etc. You can find more information about that on the Immigration New Zealand website .

Visa-Waiver Countries: Which Countries Do Not Need a Visa for New Zealand?

Some countries have an agreement with New Zealand and their citizens are allowed to come to New Zealand for three months to travel without having to go through the process of getting a visa . As you can see, there are heaps of countries on the visa-waiver list. We have listed them by continent to make finding your country easier.

Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Iceland, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom (6 months allowance), Vatican City

North America

Canada, United States of America

South America

Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Uruguay

Middle East

Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates

Brunei, Korea (South), Hong Kong, Japan, Macau, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan

South Africa, Seychelles, Mauritius

List date: 2023. For the full list please refer to the official visa waiver countries page .

New Zealand Visitor Visa Requirements: Conditions for People from a Visa-Waiver Country

From a visa-waiver country? That’s great! This means you don’t have to apply for a visa before you come to New Zealand. However, there are a few things you should be aware of before arriving in the country.

You must make sure you:

• have paid the NZeTA and IVL (see section below)
• complete the “ Traveller Declaration ” during the flight to New Zealand or online 24 hours before travel
• have a passport that is valid three months beyond the date you intend to leave New Zealand
• have evidence for sufficient funds and onward travel (see the section below)
• stay in New Zealand for nine months or less in an 18-month period
• have no intention of studying or working in New Zealand (for that, you would need a working holiday visa or student visa , for example).

Please note that, as a citizen of a visa-waiver country, your visitor visa will be granted at the airport on arrival in New Zealand. It will usually be electronic, meaning that you may not get a visa stamp or label on your passport.

The NZeTA and IVL

Travellers from visa-waiver countries might not have to physically apply for a visitor visa for New Zealand but they do have to request and pay the NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) and IVL (International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy) before arrival.

How Long Does it Take to Get an NZeTA?

It is best to request them as soon as possible, as it can take up to 72 hours for an NZeTA approval.

How to Get an NZeTA

There are two ways of paying for the NZeTA and IVL:

• Through the Immigration New Zealand Android or Apple App
• Through the Immigration  New Zealand website form .

How Long is the NZeTA Valid?

The NZeTA and IVL are valid for multiple visits and transits to New Zealand for up to two years.

For more information on the NZeTA and IVL, take a look at the  What You Need to Know About the New Zealand ETA & Visitor Levy and the 10 Things You Need to Know About the NZETA .

Evidence of Sufficient Funds and Onward Travel for Visitors and Tourists

Whether you have a New Zealand tourist visa (visitor visa) or an NZeTA, you will need to prepare some documents to present to the immigration officer on arrival in New Zealand. It’s true that these documents are not always asked for, but the time you risk it will no doubt be the time that you need the documents. You will need evidence of onward travel and evidence of sufficient maintenance funds while you are in the country.

What Type of Onward Travel Evidence is Accepted?

• Travel tickets (can be confirmed or open-dated) out of New Zealand.
• Written confirmation from an airline or travel agency that onward travel is booked and paid.
• Anything that demonstrates a confirmed departure from New Zealand , like a yacht or private aircraft departure.

How Much Funds Do You Need to Visit New Zealand?

In other words, how much money do you need in your bank account to go to New Zealand? You need to provide evidence to show you have either NZ$1,000 per month that you intend to stay in New Zealand or NZ$400 per month with evidence that you have paid for accommodation. ( Learn more about the New Zealand currency here ).

What Types of Fund Evidence are Accepted?

• Bank drafts
• Bank statements in your name
• Letters of credit
• Photocopies of travellers’ cheques.

Not from a Visa-Waiver Country?

… then you will need to apply for a new zealand tourist visa (visitor visa) before arrival.

Sure, it’s a bit more hassle, but nothing that a bit of forward planning can’t handle.

How to Get a New Zealand Tourist Visa (Visitor Visa)

Those from countries not listed on the visa-waiver list must print and fill out the Visitor Visa Application (INZ 1017) form and send the paper application to your nearest Immigration New Zealand office. You can find the address on the Office and Fee Finder . Your visitor visa must be accepted before you enter New Zealand.

In order to complete the visitor visa application form, you need the following:

• The appropriate fee (see the Office and Fee Finder )
• Two passport-sized coloured photos
• Your passport or travel document
• If required, a medical and x-ray certificate (in most cases it is not required)
• Evidence of sufficient funds to support your stay (see the section above)
• Evidence of onward travel (see the section above).

Note that those who have to apply and pay for a visitor visa are not required to pay the NZeTA and IVL .

How Long Does it Take to Get an NZ Visitor Visa?

Processing times for visas fluctuate but Immigration New Zealand is known for processing 90% of Visitor Visa applications within 37 weekdays. See the latest processing time on this page of the Immigration New Zealand website .

More About the Visa to Visit New Zealand

That’s it for our complete guide to the New Zealand tourist visa and NZeTA. For more advice on visiting formalities, check out the following guides:

• Arriving in New Zealand: Airport Customs, Biosecurity & the Arrival Process
• The New Zealand Working Holiday Visa : Everything You Need to Know!
• Which Visa Do You Need to Study in New Zealand?

Finally, find more essential travel advice in the 31 Tips for Travelling in New Zealand and   The Best Travel Guide to New Zealand .

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Immigration New Zealand (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2024])
• New Zealand Customs Service (Customs and Biosecurity - Updated [2024])
• New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD online platform - Updated [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• Safe Travel (NZ travel advisories - Updated [2024])
• Stats NZ (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2024])
• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
• DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and approved by Robin, who is the co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. With more than 15 years of experience in the New Zealand tourism industry, Robin has co-founded three influential tourism businesses and five additional travel guides for South Pacific nations. He is an expert in New Zealand travel and has tested over 600 activities and 300+ accommodations across the country.

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Check which visas you'll need and organise to get them well ahead of your travel dates.

What type of visa you’ll need

Different countries have different rules — some countries allow you to stay for certain periods without a visa. If you do not have the correct visa you can be refused entry. The type of visa you need will depend on:

• the country you’re travelling to
• the passport you hold
• the purpose of your trip
• the length of your stay.

You can find out about the visa you’ll need from:

• the foreign representative to NZ of the country you want to visit (for example, embassies, high commissions or consulates)
• your travel agent.

Find an embassy, high commission or consulate

Applying for your visa

Different countries have different application processes — getting a visa can often take weeks, so make sure you give yourself enough time. Also make sure you have a valid passport when applying for a visa.

A visa does not always mean you’ll be able to travel

Having a visa does not mean you’ll be allowed to enter another country — you’ll still have to clear customs and immigration when you arrive.

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Preparing a visa application

Find out about the process to apply for a visa online or on paper, and how to prepare the supporting information we will ask for.

The application process

The application process varies depending on the visa you are applying for and if you are applying online or on paper.

Your journey to New Zealand

Find out how to prepare for your travel to New Zealand — who needs an NZeTA, the identity documents and evidence you need, and what happens when you arrive.

If you are applying for a New Zealand visa you may need to provide us with information to show you have an acceptable standard of health.

Identity and character

When you apply for a visa we need to check your identity and character. Find out about police certificates, visa photos, and our requirements for good character and genuine intentions.

Financial arrangements

You may need to arrange financial support for yourself while you are here, for example to fund your study, or ensure you have acceptable investments for your visa requirements.

English language

For some visas you need to speak and understand English. Find out which test results we accept, how to show your English-speaking background and who can buy language lessons.

Bringing or joining family

Find out about bringing partners, parents and dependent children to New Zealand and the visa options that support family.

Studying in New Zealand

Education providers that support Pathway Student Visas, the rules about working while you are studying and after your study, and if you need to be accompanied by a legal guardian.

Working in New Zealand

Find out about the qualifications, work experience, skill level or registration you need for a work visa, your rights as a migrant worker, how to start a business, and what employers need to do to hire entertainment industry staff.

Living in New Zealand

Find out about how to live in New Zealand as a resident, asylum seeker or evacuee.