An Interim Visa allows you to stay in New Zealand legally if your current visa expires while your application for a new temporary visa (like a work, student, or visitor visa) is processed.
Length of Stay:
- The Interim Visa lasts up to 6 months or until Immigration New Zealand decides on your new visa application.
Cost:
- Free: There’s no cost to get an Interim Visa.
How it’s Granted:
- Automatically granted: You don’t need to apply for it. If your current visa expires and you’ve applied for a new temporary visa, an Interim Visa will automatically be given to you.
What You Can Do With an Interim Visa:
- Stay in New Zealand: You can remain in the country while your new visa is processed.
- Work or Study: Depending on the type of visa you had before and the new one you’re applying for, you may be allowed to keep working or studying.
Important Points:
- You cannot apply for it directly: It is automatically granted if you meet the requirements.
- Electronic visa: There is no physical label or sticker on your passport. The visa is recorded electronically.
- No new visa applications: You cannot apply for another visa while on an Interim Visa except for the one you’ve already submitted.
When Does the Interim Visa Start?
- It starts automatically when your current visa expires and lasts for six months or until a decision is made on your new visa.
What Happens When a Decision Is Made on Your New Visa?
- If your new visa is approved, the Interim Visa ends, and your new visa starts right away.
- If your new visa is denied, your Interim Visa will expire 21 days after the decision.
Restrictions on Travel:
- You cannot leave New Zealand while on an Interim Visa. If you leave, your visa will expire immediately, and you won’t be able to return on the same visa.
Example Situations:
- Working on an Interim Visa: If you had a work visa before and applied for another, you might be allowed to continue working, but only under the conditions of your previous visa.
- Studying on an Interim Visa: If you have a student visa and are applying for another, you can continue your studies, but your rights will depend on your last visa.
- Visitor Visa: If you were on a visitor visa, the Interim Visa will allow you to stay in New Zealand. However, you cannot work or study unless your new visa allows it.
Final Notes:
- No changes to visa type: You can’t change your visa application while on an Interim Visa. You have to wait for a decision on your current application.
- If your Interim Visa expires and you haven’t been granted a new visa, you must leave New Zealand.
This detailed breakdown should give you a clear and simple understanding of the Interim Visa process in New Zealand.
About ICL Immigration
ICL Immigration, based in Auckland, is an established licensed immigration adviser and immigration consultant with over 20 years of experience. We’ve helped over 1,000 immigrants realize their New Zealand settlement dreams.
We specialize in various visa services, including student, residency, and work visas, as well as business-related services like employer accreditation. We ensure personalized solutions for individuals and businesses aiming to navigate New Zealand’s immigration landscape successfully.
