The New Zealand Visa Requirements are one of the first things you should consider if you are thinking about visiting New Zealand. A New Zealand Visa or Permit may be required if you plan to study, visit or work in New Zealand.

New Zealand Student Visa and Permits
If you are intending to study in New Zealand for more than three months, then you may need a study visa or permit. However, you won’t need a visa or permit if you are a New Zealand Australian citizen, hold permanent New Zealand residence or you are an Australian resident with a permanent residence visa or a resident return visa that is current.

If you intend to study a single course that is less than three months in duration, and is approved or exempted by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority, then you can apply for a Visitor Visa.

You will need a Student Visa or Permit if you are going to study two or more short courses.

You will also need to meet health and character requirements, and prove that you can financially support yourself during your stay in New Zealand.

New Zealand Visitor Visa
If you are from Australia, or from a visa-free country and your visit is less than three months (or six months if you are from the United Kingdom), then you will not require a New Zealand Visitor Visa. Diplomats, aircrew and cruise ship passengers may also be exempt. All other people will need to apply for a visitor visa.

When assessing your New Zealand visa requirements, you will need to show that you are in good health and of good character. Your passport must be valid for at least three months past the date you intend to leave New Zealand, and you will also need to prove that you have they ways and means to leave New Zealand.

You will also need to show that you have enough money to support yourself during your visit to New Zealand.

The longest you can stay in New Zealand with a Visitor Visa is nine months. If you are from a Visa-free country you may stay for three months (or six months if you are from the United Kingdom).

New Zealand Work Visa
If you wish to work in New Zealand, either permanently or temporarily, there are a number of options you can consider.

Those aged between 18-30 may qualify for a working holiday permit, depending on their nationality.

Certain types of work may not require a work visa, for example if you are on a sales trip, and Australian citizens are also exempt.

You may be eligible for a temporary work visa or permit if you have a job offer from a New Zealand employer or you are a student or trainee.