If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, you must apply for a visa. The visa application process can be a bit daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. This article will walk you through the steps to apply for a New Zealand visa, including the eligibility requirements, required documents, processing time, and cost.
How to Apply for a New Zealand Visa
- Check your eligibility. The first step is to check whether you’re eligible for a New Zealand visa. You can find a list of all eligible nationalities on the Immigration New Zealand website. If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible, you can use the Visa Wizard tool to find out.
- Choose the right visa type. Different types of New Zealand visas are available, depending on the purpose of your travel. The most common type of visa is the visitor visa, which allows you to stay in New Zealand for up to nine months. Other types of visas include work visas, student visas, and partner visas.
- Gather your supporting documents. Once you’ve chosen the right visa type, you’ll need to gather your supporting documents. These documents vary depending on the type of visa you’re applying for. However, some common requirements include a passport, passport-sized photos, and evidence of travel funds. You can find a complete list of the required documents on the Immigration New Zealand website.
- Create a RealMe account. You’ll need to create a RealMe account to submit your visa application online. RealMe is a New Zealand government service that allows you to access various government services online.
- Complete the online application form. Once you have a RealMe account, you can start completing the online application form. The application form is quite comprehensive, so be sure to take your time and answer all of the questions accurately.
- Pay your visa application fee. The visa application fee varies depending on the type of visa you’re applying for. You can pay your visa application fee online or by credit card.
- Submit your application. You can submit your application once you’ve completed the online application form and paid your visa application fee. Your application will be processed by Immigration New Zealand, and you’ll be notified of the decision within a few weeks.
Eligibility Requirements for a New Zealand Visa
The eligibility requirements for a New Zealand visa vary depending on the type of visa you’re applying for. However, there are some general requirements that all visa applicants must meet, including:
- You must have a passport that is valid for at least six months after your planned departure date from New Zealand.
- You must be of good character and have no criminal convictions.
- You must have enough money to support yourself during your stay in New Zealand.
- You must have a return ticket or the financial means to purchase one.
Required Documents for a New Zealand Visa Application
The required documents for a New Zealand visa application vary depending on the type of visa you’re applying for. However, some commonly required documents include:
- A completed visa application form
- A passport that is valid for at least six months after your planned departure date from New Zealand
- Passport-sized photo
- Evidence of travel funds
- Evidence of health insurance
- Evidence of accommodation
Processing Time for a New Zealand Visa Application:
The processing time for a New Zealand visa application varies depending on the type of visa you’re applying for and your country of citizenship. However, most visa applications are processed within a few weeks.
Cost of a New Zealand Visa
The cost of a New Zealand visa varies depending on the type of visa you’re applying for and your country of citizenship. However, most visitor visas cost around NZ$180.
Where to Get Your NZ Visa Photo Taken
You can get your NZ visa photo taken online or at any professional passport photo studio.
Online using Smartphone iD app
1. Through our website
Click the “Take a photo” button on the Smartphone iD website, select the required country, “NZ,” and document type, “visa.” Take your photo. After our team of experts and the AI system validate the photo, you will receive it via email.
2. Through our mobile app
- Download the Smartphone iD app on your phone.
- Capture your NZ visa photo by following the instructions in the Smartphone iD app.
- After our team of experts and the AI system validate the photo, you will receive it via email.
Conclusion
Obtaining a New Zealand visa is a crucial first step to exploring this beautiful country. Ensure you meet eligibility requirements, gather necessary documents such as your visa photo with smartphone iD app and following the application process, and stay updated with the latest guidelines.
