02 September: Are you planning to visit New Zealand for the Christmas holiday or New Year’s Eve? It’s one of the busiest seasons for Visitor Visa Applications. As per an advisory by INZ, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) expects to receive over 260,000 visitor visa applications during the busy summer season. If you plan to visit New Zealand, applying for your visa as early as possible is essential.
Why You Should Apply Early
The summer months in New Zealand are popular with visitors. Many people want to spend Christmas and New Year’s in New Zealand. Because of this, visa processing times can be longer. To avoid any delays, INZ recommends the following:
- If you are travelling for Christmas, Apply for your visa by 15 October 2024.
- If you are travelling for New Year: Apply for your visa by 15 November 2024.
If you submit your visa application after these dates, it may not be processed in time for your trip.
Make Sure Your Application Is Complete
It’s important to apply early and ensure your visa application is complete. If your application is missing any required documents or if your documents are not in English, it may be delayed or even declined. A complete application will help you get your visa decision faster so you can plan your trip with peace of mind.
Tips to Help You Avoid Delays
Here are some simple steps you can take to make sure your visa application is processed on time:
- Check Your Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months after the date you plan to leave New Zealand. This rule applies to everyone who is travelling with you. Make sure you also include a clear, scanned copy of the photo page in your passport with your visa application.
- Provide the Right Photo: Make sure the photo you include with your application meets all the requirements set by INZ. This will help avoid any delays.
- Double-Check Your Details: Make sure that the personal information you provide, such as your name, passport number, and date of birth, exactly matches what is on your passport. This helps prevent problems when you are travelling.
- Show Your Genuine Intentions: Include documents that prove you plan to visit New Zealand temporarily and will return to your home country after your visit. This can include a letter from your employer, proof of property ownership, or family ties.
- Submit Documents in English: Make sure that all your supporting documents are in English. If they are not, you need to provide an English translation. This will help make sure your application is processed without any issues.
- Show Proof of Funds: Include evidence showing you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in New Zealand or that you have a sponsor who will care for you.
Important Information
Starting from 1 October 2024, visa fees and levies will increase. Also, if you are from a country on the visa waiver list, you may not need a visa before travelling to New Zealand, but you will need an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority).
Applying early and ensuring your application is complete will help you get your visa on time and avoid stress. For more detailed information, visit the INZ website or contact their support centre.
For more information about NZeTA, please visit our Guide on NZeTA.
For detailed information on the increase in NZ Visa fees, please visit our News on NZ Visa Increase.
Reference
https://www.immigration.govt.nz/
About ICL Immigration
ICL Immigration, based in Auckland, is an established licensed immigration adviser with over 20 years of experience. We’ve helped over 1,000 immigrants realise their New Zealand settlement dreams.
We specialise in a broad spectrum of visa services, including work, residency, student visas, and complex cases like Section 61, IPL Appeal, ensuring personalised solutions for individuals and businesses aiming to navigate New Zealand’s immigration landscape successfully.
