Visa application processes

Most visas have an application fee and you may also have to pay a levy. In some circumstances people from some countries may not have to pay the fee.

We process applications as soon as we can. To avoid delays, check that the information in your application is complete and correct.

Being fully prepared and planning ahead will help ensure your application does not need to be sent back to you for more information. So check all your documents and read all available application guidance.

Find out what we check when we process a visa application and when we may ask you for extra information.

If you are in New Zealand on a temporary visa and you need another temporary visa, you should apply at least two weeks before your current visa expires.

If a passport needs to be returned urgently contact the officer processing your application directly.

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) uses visa application groups to manage and prioritise applications for processing.