New Zealand Visa Guide
New Zealand, a breathtaking nation comprised of North and South Islands, along with numerous smaller islands, offers foreigners much more than just its natural beauty. It is an ideal destination for business and residence alike. To explore this stunning country, Indians require a New Zealand visa, which can unlock various opportunities.
Understanding the New Zealand Visa
Whenever an Indian citizen plans to travel to New Zealand, they must obtain a New Zealand visa before embarking on their journey. This visa serves as a prerequisite for entry and opens doors to various benefits. Depending on the type of visa, it allows travelers to explore the country, engage in business activities with New Zealand companies, and even visit friends and family. These visas are categorized based on their purpose and duration, each with specific stay allowances and validity periods.
How to Apply for a New Zealand Visa from India?
Before applying for a New Zealand visa, it’s crucial to check the eligibility criteria, which may vary based on the visa type. The application process can be completed both online and offline:
Online Process:
- Visit the official website of the New Zealand High Commission.
- Select the visa category that suits your purpose.
- Fill out the online application form with the required details.
- Upload photographs and scanned documents.
- Pay the New Zealand visa fees.
- Await approval.
Offline Process:
- Begin by downloading the visa application form.
- Choose the appropriate visa type.
- Complete the visa application form and gather the necessary documents.
- Submit the documents to the New Zealand Immigration.
- Pay the required visa fee.
- Wait for document approval.
Online visa applications result in electronic visas, which can be obtained from the comfort of your home. In contrast, offline applications require document submission and processing after fee payment. Ensure that all information provided, whether online or offline, is genuine and verifiable, as any false information may lead to visa rejection. Consulting a professional during the application process is recommended for a smoother experience.
Types of New Zealand Visas
New Zealand offers various visa types classified by the purpose of the visit and other factors. Common visa types include:
Tourist Visa: For individuals visiting New Zealand for tourism purposes, typically valid for stays of less than 3 months.
Business Visa: Required for business-related visits to New Zealand. These are short-term visas with limited and often non-extendable validity.
Visitor Visa: Issued when visiting family or friends in New Zealand. The validity of visitor and tourist visas is usually similar.
Transit Visa: A temporary visa for travelers making a transit stop in New Zealand before continuing to another country.
New Zealand Visa Document Requirements
Document requirements vary based on the visa type. Common document requirements for New Zealand visas for Indians include:
- Original passport valid for at least 6 months from the travel date.
- Colored photographs meeting specified photo requirements.
- A cover letter containing all necessary details.
- Confirmed flight tickets.
- Proof of income tax returns.
- Medical certificate.
- Proof of accommodation, such as an invitation letter or hotel reservation (scanned copies).
- Proof of the purpose of the visit, such as an invitation letter or exhibition/conference pass (scanned copies).
- Proof of sufficient funds, like bank statements or equivalent documents (scanned copies).
New Zealand Visa Photo Specifications
Ensure your visa photo complies with these specifications:
- Provide two copies.
- Photo size: 35mm x 45mm.
- Colored photograph.
- The face should occupy about 70-80% of the frame.
- Ensure a well-centered head.
- The photo must not be older than 6 months.
- Use a white or light-colored background.
- Maintain a neutral expression.
- Avoid glasses (unless for prescription purposes).
- Headgear is not allowed except for religious reasons.
- Clothing should not match the background.
New Zealand Visa Fees
Visa fees for New Zealand are payable through the agency handling your application and are influenced by various factors, including the type of visa, number of entries, purpose of the visit, service charges, and application process. Ensure you understand the exact costs before applying.
| Entry | Purpose | Stay Duration | Validity | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multiple entry Normal | Business | 180 days | 6 months | 12687.0 |
| Multiple entry Normal | Visitor | 180 days | 6 months | 12687.0 |
| Multiple entry Normal | Visitor | 180 days | 6 months | 12687.0 |
| Multiple entry Normal | Tourist | 180 days | 6 months | 12687.0 |
Checking New Zealand Visa Status
To check the status of your New Zealand visa online, visit the official website of the New Zealand High Commission. For electronic visas, this is the preferred method. For offline visas, you can contact the Immigration authorities or your agent for updates.
Where to Apply?
To apply for a New Zealand visa, you can use the online portal or download the offline visa application form. Ensure all requirements are met, and documents are verifiable. For a smoother process, consider professional visa consultation through reputable visa agencies. This approach can expedite your application and reduce the risk of rejection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Visa extension is possible if you have a legitimate reason and meet specific criteria. Apply for an extension through the New Zealand Immigration, paying the required fee.
Medical tests are typically required for long-term visas and may not be mandatory for short-term visas. It’s advisable to undergo a medical checkup before traveling to New Zealand
While the New Zealand High Commission does not specify a specific amount, you need to demonstrate you have at least NZ $1000 per month for your stay. Other requirements may apply depending on the visa type.
ECR passport holders may not encounter significant issues with short-term visas. However, work visas may require an Emigration Check to enter the country.
For short-term visas, you can apply up to 90 days before your intended travel date, but it’s recommended to apply at least 15 to 20 days before. Long-term visas like residence, work, or student visas may require applying 8 to 10 months in advance.
Points are primarily considered for long-term visas. Currently, 160 points are required for certain visas, but this can vary based on the visa type and the applicant’s passport country.
The rejection rate for New Zealand visas in India was 32% in 2018, though this rate fluctuates from year to year. It has significantly decreased from 51% in 2015 and 54% in 2016.
A ban in Australia can impact your New Zealand visa application, depending on the ban’s nature. It’s crucial to be honest with the Consulate regarding the ban’s details.
If the DUI case is still active, your visa application is likely to be rejected. Even if the case is closed, the Consulate will review your history, and if any relevance is found to the application, it may still be rejected. Approval chances are slim with a DUI case.
Travel history is typically reviewed when applying for any visa, including a New Zealand visa. The Consulate may request your old passports to assess your travel history and make informed decisions regarding visa issuance.
