Applicants must provide a certified English translation of any documents in a foreign language.

Previously, applications including documents provided in a foreign language and with no translations could take longer to process.

Ensuring that documents for your visitor visa application are provided in English helps us process it more efficiently.

What documents need translation?

All supporting documents submitted with visitor visa applications must be provided in English or include an English translation.

Examples of documents that require translation can include:

• proof of funds — such as bank statements, pay records
• flight itineraries including return tickets
• proof of employment in your home country
• leave of absence documentation
• identity documents other than passports — for example, Hukou for Chinese nationals.

Who can complete a certified translation?

Applicants can provide certified translations completed by:

• reputable private or official translation businesses
• community members known for their accurate translations, excluding the applicant, family members, or their immigration adviser.

We will also accept translations from a licensed immigration adviser (LIA) who is:

• a trustworthy person within the community
• known to translate documents accurately
• not an adviser on the application.

Applications without translated documents are likely to be declined.

Providing English translations of supporting documents

We have a range of visas that allow you to visit New Zealand.

Visas that allow you to visit

Resources about mandatory translations

If you are working with visa applicants, you can use our marketing media pack.
These resources are available in English and other languages.

Marketing media pack — mandatory English translations