Follow these steps if you have already been granted a resident visa and wish to apply for a:

• permanent resident visa
• variation of travel conditions, or 
• second or subsequent resident visa.

Note: If you hold a resident visa, but you are a person who would otherwise be prohibited for entry (for instance, because you would be subject to travel sanctions), you may only be eligible for a 14-day variation of travel conditions. If you think this might apply to you, you should contact your nearest branch of Immigration New Zealand to discuss your situation. 

Step 1

Complete the Application from A Resident Visa Holder (INZ 1175) available from Immigration New Zealand offices in New Zealand and overseas.

Step 2

You must provide:

• the completed and signed form
• the application fee
• two passport-size photos of everyone included in the application
• passports for everyone included in the application, and 
• any specific requirements for your situation as described below.

If you qualify for a permanent resident visa

If you have shown a commitment to New Zealand by spending enough time in New Zealand, INZ will have records of this and you do not need to provide additional evidence.

If you have met the commitment to New Zealand in a different way, you will need to show evidence of:

• your taxpayer status, or
• acceptable investments, or
• a successful business, or
• an established base in New Zealand.

If you qualify for a variation of travel conditions

If you have shown a commitment to New Zealand by spending enough time in New Zealand, INZ will have records of this and you do not need to provide additional evidence.

If you have met the requirements in a different way, you will need to show evidence of:

• your taxpayer status, or
• your partnership with a New Zealand citizen, or
• evidence you have been seconded overseas by your New Zealand employer.

If you qualify for a second or subsequent resident visa

You should show the necessary evidence that you were eligible for either a variation of travel conditions or a permanent resident visa on the day your resident visa expired.

Step 3

If you are currently in New Zealand, your application must be sent to your nearest Immigration New Zealand branch.

or

If you are overseas, your application must be sent before you travel to New Zealand. Find out where to send your application.

For more information on how to apply, download our Guide for Resident Visa Holders (INZ 1176).