Adoption Visitor Visa
Children can come to New Zealand to be adopted by New Zealand citizens or residents. The adoption must have the support of Oranga Tamariki — Ministry for Children.
Apply online-
Length of stay
Up to
6 months
-
Cost
From
NZD $341
-
Processing time
80% within
5 weeks
To apply you must:
- as the adoptive parents, be a New Zealand citizen or resident
- have the support of Oranga Tamariki — Ministry for Children
- meet the other requirements of this visa.
This visa lets you:
- bring children to New Zealand for adoption
- send the children to school for up to 3 months in any calendar year.
There are requirements for health, having enough money to live on, and leaving New Zealand, but we may remove these requirements for adopted children.
School-aged children may instead apply for a Dependent Child Student Visa to study full time as a
How long you can stay
This visa allows a child brought to New Zealand for adoption to stay for up to 6 months.
Further visas may be approved to allow sufficient time to submit a full adoption order.
Who can apply
To apply for an Adoption Visitor Visa on behalf of the child you are planning to adopt, you must:
- be a New Zealand citizen or resident
- provide proof of the child's identity
- have the support of Oranga Tamariki — Ministry for Children
- agree to pay the child's healthcare costs, if they are not eligible for public healthcare
- genuinely intend for the child to meet the conditions of their visa.
You may also need to:
- prove you have enough money to pay for the child's living expenses during their stay, or that you have an acceptable sponsor
- provide evidence that the child is in good health
- show that the child can leave New Zealand at the end of their stay.
Your immigration status
You must be a New Zealand citizen or resident.
You must provide an original or certified copy of your:
- New Zealand passport
- New Zealand birth certificate
- certificate of New Zealand citizenship, or
- New Zealand resident visa.
If you have New Zealand residence because you are an Australian citizen or Australian permanent resident, you can provide your:
- Australian passport
- Australian Permanent Resident Visa, or
- Australian Resident Return Visa.
Support of Oranga Tamariki — Ministry for Children
With your application, you must provide written confirmation from Oranga Tamariki — Ministry for Children that they support the adoption.
Genuine intentions
You must genuinely intend for the child to meet the conditions of their visa.
When we decide if your intentions are genuine, we will consider all the information that:
- you provide to support your application
- we have about your personal circumstances
- you have previously given to us.
When you travel to New Zealand on a temporary visa, your intentions must be genuine. This means that you: We use all the information we have, including the information you give us in your application, to confirm that you have genuine intentions. Alert You must answer truthfully when you complete your visa application or NZTD. If you are travelling on a visitor visa or visiting from a
If you have a visitor visa for a specific reason, you must be coming to New Zealand for that reason. For example, if you have a Medical Treatment Visitor Visa, your reason for visiting must be getting medical treatment. If you are travelling on a student visa, you must have genuine intentions to study in New Zealand. You can only work if the conditions of your student visa allow you to. If you are travelling to New Zealand to work, you must have a visa that will allow you to. Unless your visa allows you to work in any job, you must plan to work in the job, for the employer, and in the location specified in your visa. You may be asked to provide evidence of your genuine intentions: Here are some examples of evidence to show that you have genuine intentions in coming to New Zealand. To show your travel history, you could show a copy of your current and recent passports, including: If you live in a country that is not your country of citizenship, provide a copy of the visa allowing you to live in that country. If you have ever had a visa application declined by any other country, provide: If you plan to visit family or friends in New Zealand, provide their: Evidence of your travel plans while in New Zealand could include copies of: You may also need to show that you have plans to leave New Zealand at the end of your stay. This evidence could include: If you are applying for a student visa, you could provide evidence that you have: If you do not need to pay tuition fees, or if you can pay by instalment — where you make smaller payments over a period of time — you must provide confirmation from your education provider. You can also write a cover letter or statement of purpose explaining why you want to study in New Zealand. This will help us decide if you are a genuine student. If you are using an education agent or licensed immigration adviser, they cannot write the letter for you. Examples of things you could write about in your letter or statement include: If you plan to apply for another visa — for example, a work visa — after you finish your studies, include this in your cover letter or statement of purpose.
To show that you have genuine intentions to work, you will in most cases need to provide: If your visa requires you to have enough money to live on during your stay, you will need to provide evidence. This could include: Depending on your situation, you may need to provide: We consider each application based on the information and evidence we receive. If you do not provide enough evidence, it may take us longer to process your application, or we may decline your application. You must provide genuine evidence. If you or your agent provide evidence that is false or misleading, we may also decline your application. False, misleading or withheld information in visa applications Check the translation requirements for the visa you are applying for. All non-English documents must be translated when you apply for visitor and resident visas. Providing English translations of supporting documents If you are applying online, make sure your evidence is in an acceptable file format. To decide if your intentions are genuine, we look at: We look at evidence you provide with your application to check that it: When we consider information about your personal circumstances, we look at: We also look at information from your previous applications and travel to New Zealand. This can show us if you have: We might not give you a visa or allow you to enter New Zealand if we:
Genuine intentions to visit, study or work in New Zealand
Before you can get a visa or enter New Zealand to visit, work or study, we check that your reasons for coming here are genuine.
What it means to have 'genuine intentions'
Visitor visas
Student visas
Work visas
Evidence to show you have genuine intentions
Evidence of your travel history
If you live in a different country to your citizenship
Declined visa applications
Evidence you are visiting family or friends
Evidence of your travel plans
Evidence of your study plans
Evidence of your work plans
Evidence you have enough money
Evidence of your home country circumstances
evidence of your relationships with close relatives in your home country
Providing good-quality evidence
How we decide if your intentions are genuine
Evidence you provide with your application
Your personal circumstances
Your previous applications
If we decide your intentions are not genuine
Enough money to support the child
Note
We may choose to waive (remove) this requirement.
You must have enough money for the child to live on while they are in New Zealand, or have an acceptable sponsor.
If you are paying for the child
You must have at least NZD $1,000 per month, or NZD $400 per month if you have already paid for their accommodation.
Evidence can include:
- proof of accommodation pre-payment, like hotel pre-paid vouchers or receipts
- bank statements or credit card statements
- bank drafts or traveller's cheques.
If the child has a sponsor
The sponsor is responsible for the child's accommodation and living costs while they are in New Zealand. They can be an organisation or an individual.
While a visa holder you sponsor is in New Zealand you must make sure they have: You must also pay the cost of their return travel to their home country, if they do not intend to pay for it themselves. If they are to be
Alert Who can sponsor a visa applicant You can also sponsor the partner and dependent children of someone you are sponsoring. If you do this, you must cover the same costs for them. Including family in your visa application If the person you sponsor has a visa with
Your responsibilities as a sponsor begin from the date the person you sponsor arrives in New Zealand. If they are already in New Zealand, your sponsorship begins on the date their visa is granted. Your sponsorship responsibilities end on the date the person you are sponsoring: Alert The person you sponsor can be
If you have not paid the costs you are responsible for, and they are paid by a third party or the New Zealand Government, that amount becomes your debt. If you do not pay, we can take you to court to recover the debt even if the person you are sponsoring:
Your responsibilities as a sponsor
If you sponsor a visa holder, you are responsible for them while they are in New Zealand on that visa.
Support you must provide
Even if the person you sponsor has agreed to pay for some or all their expenses, you are still legally responsible for those expensesSponsoring a visa applicant's family members
If the person you sponsor travels in and out of NZ
When your sponsorship begins and ends
You cannot withdraw your sponsorship. It continues even if the person you sponsor stays in New Zealand without a valid visa.
If you do not meet your obligations
Sponsorship process for a visa
The sponsor must complete a 'Sponsorship Form for Temporary Entry'.
They can provide supporting documents that include:
- recent bank statements
- pay slips
- employment agreement
- ownership papers for your accommodation or receipts for rent payments.
Paying for health care
You or the child's sponsor will need to pay for any health care or medical assistance the child may need in New Zealand.
We recommend you have full medical insurance for the child for the length of their stay.
The child's health
Note
We may choose to waive (remove) this requirement.
The child must be in good health.
We may ask that the child has a chest X-ray, a medical examination, or both, as proof of their good health.
If the child is staying less than:
- 6 months, they do not normally need a chest X-ray
- 12 months, they do not normally need a medical certificate.
When you apply, you must answer questions about the child's health. This will help us to decide if you need to provide evidence of a chest X-ray or medical examination. Even if the child does not need these when you apply, we may ask for them when we process your application.
Check the situations where we may ask the child to have a chest X-ray or medical examination.
To get a New Zealand visa, applicants must be in good health. To show us that you have an acceptable standard of health, you may need to have a medical examination, chest X-ray or both. If you do, you will need to include a medical certificate or an eMedical reference number in your application. Why you need to provide evidence of your good health How to get an X-ray or medical examination There are 3 types of medical certificate: What you need to provide depends on the type of visa you are applying for, how long you intend to stay in New Zealand, what country you are from, and whether you have provided a medical certificate to us with an earlier application. Children under 11 years of age and pregnant women do not need to have a chest X-ray unless a special report is needed. If you will be staying in New Zealand between 6 and 12 months, you must have a chest X-ray if: Countries with a low incidence of tuberculosis If you will be staying for more than 12 months, you must have a chest X-ray no matter where you are from. If you apply for another visa while in New Zealand, the time you have already spent here counts towards the 12 months. Different rules apply if you are: Information for asylum seekers If you are applying to stay in New Zealand permanently, and do not already have a resident visa, you must have a chest X-ray no matter where you are from. You do not need to get a chest X-ray if you are applying for a student visa and staying for less than 6 months. You must have a chest X-ray if you are applying for a student visa and: You do not need to get a chest X-ray if you are staying for more than 6 months as a foreign fee-paying student, and you are: You do not need to provide a chest X-ray certificate if you are: If you are from a country that does not have a low incidence of TB, you must have a chest X-ray no matter how long you will stay in New Zealand. You must send us another X-ray if: You do not need to send us another chest X-ray if you provided a chest X-ray with an earlier visa application and you are applying for a visa on or after 5 August 2021 based on your relationship to an existing Essential Skills Work Visa holder (that is, you are their partner or dependent child). Once you have made your application, we may come back to you and ask for medical documents. If you have already obtained an X-ray certificate for your visa application, you can choose to still submit it. If you are applying for a Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa, you must provide a chest X-ray certificate with your application. Find out if you need to include a medical certificate with your application. If you will stay in New Zealand for up to 12 months, you normally do not need to have a medical examination unless the visa you apply for will allow you to stay for more than 12 months, or we ask you to have one. You must have a medical examination if you will stay in New Zealand for more than 12 months. If you are already in New Zealand, the time you have already spent here will count towards the 12 months. There are different rules when applying for a student visa. If you are applying to stay in New Zealand permanently, and do not already have a resident visa, you must have a medical examination no matter where you are from. If you stay for more than 12 months, you must have a medical examination if you: If you are applying for a Fee-Paying Student Visa or Pathway Student Visa, you do not need to have a medical examination, no matter how long you are staying in New Zealand, unless: Even if you had a medical examination with an earlier visa application, you need to have another medical examination if: You do not need to send us another medical examination if you provided a medical examination with an earlier visa application and you are applying for a visa on or after 5 August 2021, based on your relationship to an existing Essential Skills Work Visa holder (that is, you are their partner or dependent child). Once you have made your application, we may come back to you and ask for medical documents if these are required to process your application. If you have already obtained a medical certificate for your visa application, you can choose to still submit it. If you are a woman over 45 you may need to have a physical breast examination. Your physician will tell you if you need one. If you are applying for a Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa, you must provide a general medical certificate and chest X-ray certificate. If you need to have a medical examination or a chest X-ray, you must use a
Panel physicians are doctors and radiologists who are approved to complete medical examinations and chest X-rays for New Zealand visa applications.
Who needs an X-ray or medical examination
If you are applying for a visa, you may need a chest X-ray or medical examination as evidence of your good health.
Proving you are in good health
Types of medical certificate
Who needs a chest X-ray
If you will be staying between 6 and 12 months
If you will be staying for more than 12 months
If you are applying to stay in New Zealand permanently
If you are applying for a student visa
Foreign fee-paying students
If you are applying for a Recognised Seasonal Employer Limited Visa
If you had a chest X-ray for an earlier visa application
If you are applying for a Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa
Who needs a medical examination
If you will be staying up to 12 months
If you will be staying for more than 12 months
If you are applying to stay in New Zealand permanently
If you are applying for a student visa
If you had a medical examination for an earlier visa application
If you are a woman over 45
If you are applying for a Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa
Arranging an examination or X-ray
Visa health requirements, which we call the acceptable standard of health criteria, help us to decide if we should approve or decline your application. We check if: Ongoing Resource Scheme — Ministry of Education When we decide if you meet the visa's health requirements, we cannot consider: Note If you, or someone else in your visa application, need to enter New Zealand for medical treatment or consultation, the visa health requirements may not apply. You may need to get a medical examination as part of your application. We will use this to determine if you meet the visa's health requirements. Who needs a chest X-ray or medical examination Your medical examination results may mean we either: If we ask the medical assessor for their opinion, we may then: We may decline your temporary visa application if we think during your stay you are likely, because of your health, to need: We may also decline your temporary visa if you are assessed as having a severe developmental or cognitive condition that will need significant support. The conditions include, but are not limited to: The visas this requirement applies to: Child of a Worker Visitor Visa Child of Military Visitor Visa Child of a Student Visitor Visa You are included in the additional health requirement if you are under 20 and applying for a student or visitor visa as the dependent of a work, student or military visa holder. We may decline your application for a resident visa if you, or somebody else in your application, have any of these conditions: We may also decline your visa application if the medical assessor thinks that your health services costs are likely to be more than NZ$81,000 (NZ$41,000 if you applied for a visa before 4 September 2022).
Why you may need to provide evidence you are in good health
Before we can approve your visa application, we check that you meet the visa's health requirements.
Health requirements for visas
How we assess your health
Meeting health requirements for temporary visas
Meeting health requirements for resident visas
Note You can check the situations where you need an X-ray or medical examination, and the different types of examinations. Who needs an X-ray or medical examination If you need a medical examination, you normally get a 'general medical examination' unless you need a limited medical examination. A general medical examination is sometimes called a 'full medical examination'. For some visas, you must have a chest X-ray, a medical examination or both before you apply. For an Accredited Employer Work Visa or a Visitor Visa, we will let you know after you submit your application if you need a chest X-ray or medical examination. If you need a chest X-ray or medical examination, you must visit a doctor or radiologist from our list of 'panel physicians' — unless there are no panel physicians in your country. Panel physicians are doctors and radiologists approved to complete chest X-rays and medical examinations for New Zealand visa applications. Check if there is a panel physician in your country. Doctors who can do examinations You must visit a panel physician. You can use any registered doctor. You must visit a panel medical clinic who will refer you to a panel radiology clinic. Note If there are other people on your application, they will each need an appointment. If you are menstruating (having a period), you need to wait until your period finishes before having your medical examination. You cannot have your medical examination during your period because the blood can affect your urine test. For an Accredited Employer Work Visa or Visitor Visa, if we need you to have a chest X-ray or medical examination, we give you an Immigration New Zealand health case reference number (NZHR). Give the NZHR to the clinic when you make your appointment. Finding your eMedical and INZ health case reference numbers You can bring a family member, support person or interpreter to your appointment. Let the clinic know when you make your appointment if you are bringing someone with you. If you are having a physical examination, you can ask the clinic for a chaperone. The clinic must have chaperones available. Have the following ready to bring to your appointment: Identity documents for X-rays and medical examinations Note If you are 17 years or under, you need your parent or legal guardian to come with you. If you are visiting any registered doctor because there are no panel physicians in your country, you need to also bring: Get the medical certificate form you need:
You need to also bring a completed 'Immigration Adviser Details' form to give to the clinic.
At your medical appointment, you must sign a form to allow the doctor to send your medical information to us. If you are 17 or younger, your parent or guardian must sign the form for you. If your doctor is using eMedical, they will give you an eMedical client consent and declaration form to sign. You can read the form before your appointment:
There are 3 parts to the medical examination: The doctor checks your height, weight, mental state, hearing and vision, listens to your heart and lungs, feels your abdomen and checks your reflexes and other parts of your nervous system. A nurse or health care assistant may complete parts of the examination. You will need to: You must pay any costs related to your X-ray and medical examinations. Note Ask the clinic about the costs when you make your appointment. In your visa application, you need to provide evidence of your X-ray or examination results. To show you had an examination you can either: To get a copy of your results you can ask the doctor when you have your examination, or any time afterwards. You can ask for email notifications. If you do, you will receive an email when your physician sends us your results. You cannot reply to this email. If you have any questions about your results, discuss these with your doctor. You can ask the clinic for a copy of your medical examination results. Once we receive your results you can also contact us if you want a copy of them. If you have an immigration adviser, and would like them to be able to see and ask questions about your medical information, you need to:
The panel physicians who use eMedical must agree to protect your personal information to meet New Zealand privacy laws. Your information is sent to us using a secure online channel and is available only to us and the clinic where you were examined. If you have any privacy concerns, you can contact us.
How to get an X-ray or medical examination
If you need a chest X-ray or medical examination for your visa application, you will need to make a doctor's appointment and take any relevant documents with you. You will need to provide evidence of your medical results in your application.
Process overview
Your chest X-ray and medical examination results must be no more than 3 months old when we get your application.
1. Check if you need a chest X-ray or medical examination
2. Make an appointment
If there is a panel physician in your country
If there is no panel physician in your country
If you are in New Zealand and only need a chest X-ray
Bringing someone with you to the appointment
3. Get what you need for your appointment
If you are visiting a doctor that is not a panel physician
If you are using a licensed immigration adviser
4. Go to your appointment
Authority to collect medical information
What happens at the medical examination
Paying for your medical examination
5. Provide evidence of your results in your application
6. How to get your results
If you need a copy of your results
Sharing your medical information with an immigration adviser
Your privacy
Note
If they are needed, results of a chest X-ray or medical examination must be less than 3 months old when we receive them.
Children under 11 do not need to have a chest X-ray unless a special report is required.
Leaving New Zealand
Note
We may choose to waive (remove) this requirement.
You must be able to show that the child will be leaving the country at the end of their stay.
If you are paying for the child, you may need to provide:
- a ticket for travel out of New Zealand to a country they have a right to enter, or
- documents, such as bank or credit card statements, that show you have enough money to buy a ticket.
Note
The money for the ticket must be in addition to what you have to pay for the child's living expenses.
If the child is being sponsored, and you do not have a ticket to leave New Zealand, the sponsor can provide recent bank statements to show they have enough money to buy one.
Documents you need
When you apply
When you apply, you will need to provide:
- a copy of the child's passport or
— if you apply on paper, you can provide a - 1 acceptable photo of the child if you apply online, or 2 photos if you apply on paper
- evidence that you, as the adoptive parent, are a New Zealand citizen or resident
- written confirmation from Oranga Tamariki — Ministry for Children that they support the adoption
- evidence of a chest X-ray — we may remove this requirement
- evidence of a medical examination — we may remove this requirement
- proof you have enough money for the child to live on during their stay, or an acceptable sponsor — we may remove this requirement
- a completed copy of the 'Sponsorship Form for Temporary Entry', if the child has a sponsor
- proof the child can leave New Zealand at the end of their stay — we may remove this requirement
- translated versions of any documents that are not in English.
You do not need to send us a physical copy. You must send us a high-quality scan of your passport. Provide a scanned copy of your current and recent passports, including: File formats for uploading documents and photos If you are including your partner or dependent children in your application, you must send us high-quality scans of their passports too. If you are applying for a: You must upload a high-quality scan of your current passport or travel document information page when you start your application. This is the page with your photo, name, date of birth and document details like passport number, expiry and issuing authority. Make sure your scan also includes the MRZ code — the string of characters on the bottom of the information page of your passport. If you are including a partner or dependent children in your application, you will also need to upload a high-quality scan of their passport information page. Immigration Online will read the identity and document details in your scanned copy and fill in these fields for you on the form. Check the details in the form are correct and fix any mistakes. If all the information is correct you do not need to do anything and can continue with your application. If Immigration Online could not upload your document, rescan your document and try again. Make sure the document: You can upload any other pages with visa records, entry and exit stamps in the 'Identity evidence' fields in the 'Supporting documents' section of your application form. If you are applying for another type of visa online, we will email you if we need your physical passport to confirm your identity. You may not need to send us your passport if you are: If you renew your passport before you travel, you must transfer your eVisa or the visa label to your new passport. Transferring a visa to a new passport You may not be able to come to New Zealand if your visa and passport do not match in our system. If we need to see your physical passport to confirm your identity, we will: Most people do not need to provide their physical passport. If you are not sure if you need to send your passport, check the final page of your completed visa application in your Immigration Online account. Warning If you do not send your passport within the time we specify, we may delay processing your application or decline it. If you are applying from outside New Zealand, send your passport to your nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC) or Immigration New Zealand (INZ) office. We must receive it within 20 working days from when we ask for it. Most people use a courier or postal tracking service to send us their passports. Offices outside of New Zealand (Visa Application Centres) Postal addresses for sending paper documents We will contact you with instructions about where and how to send your passport if you: Check our postal addresses page for where to send your passport in New Zealand. Use a signature-required courier service so it arrives quickly. Postal addresses for sending paper documents You may have to pay a fee to send your passport to a VAC. You can find the handling fee on the website of your nearest VAC. Fill in the filters and select the tab called ‘Passport handling for online application’. VFS Global for individuals — VFS Global If you sent your passport to a VAC, they contact you with the tracking details after they send your passport back to you. If you have any questions or concerns about the return of your passport, contact the VAC directly. Note The VAC may not send your passport back to you until after we have made a decision about your visa application. If you sent your passport to an INZ office, you receive a tracking number after we send it back to you. Contact the courier company if you have any questions about delivery. For any other questions or concerns, contact us. If you need your passport urgently, contact the INZ officer processing your application. When you contact them, include:
Providing your passport for an online application
How to provide a digital copy of your passport or send us your original passport so we can verify your identity.
If you are applying for a visitor, student or work visa
Resident and transit visas
You must upload a high-quality scan of your passport or travel document when you apply online. You do not need to send us a physical copy.Upload the passport or travel document information page
File formats for uploading documents and photosUpload other passport or travel document pages
Other online applications
Transfer a visa to a new passport
Providing your physical passport
Sending your passport from outside New Zealand
Countries that cannot use a VAC
Sending your passport in New Zealand
Sending your passport to a VAC
Getting your passport returned from a VAC or INZ office
Urgent return of passports
If your photo does not meet all of our requirements we will ask you for a new photo. If you are applying for a visa, we will stop processing your application until we receive an acceptable photo. If you are requesting an NZeTA, your request may be delayed or refused. Use the photo examples on this page to check your photo is correct and meets our requirements. Alert Do not use the New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs website or other online tools to check your photo as those tools are for passport photos only. Your photo is more likely to be accepted if you use a professional photographer or business that takes passport photos. Give the photographer our instructions to make sure you get a photo that meets our requirements.
The photo you submit with a paper application must be 35 mm wide and 45 mm high. Further instructions are on the paper application forms. Note You can only apply for an NZeTA online. The photo you submit with an online application must be: Alert We are unlikely to accept your photo if it is not the right size. If you request an NZeTA using the web app, you can either upload an existing photo or take one using your device's camera. If you use the mobile app, you can only take a photo using your device's camera. Your photo must be: If you take a photo with your device, the camera must have a minimum resolution of 540 x 720 pixels. Large photos will be automatically formatted. If there is an issue with your photo you will receive an error message when you submit your visa or NZeTA photo online. To help you, we have provided a list of online errors and how to fix them. Your photo must: It may be easier to remove them.
Visa and NZeTA photos
Your photo must be less than 6 months old and clearly identify you. It must also meet all of our technical requirements.
Meeting our photo requirements
Visa and NZeTA photos are not passport photos
Using a professional photographer
Paper applications for visas
Online applications for visas
Online requests for NZeTAs
Online photo error messages
Taking your visa photo
Be in portrait, not landscape
Be of you, not a photo of a photo or your travel document
Have even lighting with minimal shadowing
Be in colour, showing natural skin tones
Be in focus, not blurry
Not contain red-eye
Be an original photo, not changed by photo-editing software
Not be a selfie
Be taken 1.5 metres from the face
Be taken against a plain, light-coloured — but not white — background with no patterns or objects
Only contain plain clothing patterns
Be of one person
We need to clearly see your face
Face the camera and keep your head straight
Keep your eyes open and mouth closed
Do not smile or frown
Show your face clearly and that long hair is tucked behind your ears
Position yourself in the middle of the photo
Remove sunglasses and hats
If you wear prescription glasses
Make sure your eyes show clearly through the lenses, with no reflected light
If you wear a head covering for religious or medical reasons
Make sure that your face and hairline can be seen in the photo
The child's passport or certificate of identity must be valid for at least 3 months after the date they plan to leave New Zealand.
Alert
The child may not be allowed to check in to their flight if their passport is close to expiring. Check that it will not expire while they are in New Zealand or close to when they plan to leave New Zealand.
- your child's Hukou (household registration book)
- your child's identity cards.
Also provide a copy of:
Also provide copies of your children's identity cards.
After you apply
After you apply, we may contact you and ask for evidence of a medical examination or chest X-ray for the child.
When the child arrives
When the child arrives, they may need to have:
- a ticket to leave New Zealand at the end of their stay, proof that you have enough money to buy them one, or agreement that a sponsor will pay for one
- proof you have enough money for the child to live on for their stay in New Zealand, or the support of an acceptable sponsor.
Note
We may choose to remove these requirements.
How to apply online
Follow these steps to complete your application online.
Note
An application containing all the documents we need will prevent delays with processing.
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1
Step 1: Gather your documents
The section 'Who can apply' explains the requirements for this visa and what you will need as proof.
Our guides for applying for a visitor visa can also help. These are also available in other languages.
Guides to applying for a visitor visa — Document search
Get documents translated
For your application, you must provide:
- certified English translations of any documents that are not in English
- scanned copies of the original documents.
Note
Documents must be translated by someone who meets our requirements for providing English translations.
Providing English translations of supporting documents
Check the requirements of the visa you are applying for. Provide certified translations of your documents to avoid delays processing your application.Check the visa application requirements
Residence visa applications
All supporting documents submitted with your resident visa application must be provided in English or include an English translation.
Visitor visa applications
Visitor visa requirements are changing
From 26 May 2025, supporting document translations for visitor visa applications will no longer need to be certified.
Changes to certification requirements for translations of visitor visa supporting documentsExamples of documents that require full translation include:
- proof of funds — such as bank statements, pay records (proof of funds must be fully translated, partial translations may not be accepted)
- 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.
All other visa applications
You must provide us with full certified English translations of all medical and police certificates. This includes police certificates that record no convictions.
Note
If your other evidence is not in English, you should provide a translated copy, as this will help us to process your application faster.
Our requirements for translated documents
Immigration New Zealand does not translate documents on behalf of visa applicants. You must pay for certified translations.
Who can complete a certified translation
You can provide certified translations completed by:
- reputable private or official translation businesses
- community members known for their accurate translations.
We do not accept translations completed by the applicant, family members, or the immigration adviser assisting with your application.
We will 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.
Using the English spelling of the name in your passport
Check your passport to see if it has your name written in English. Ask your translator to use this spelling when they translate your documents.
If a translator used a different spelling of your name in your translated documents, then include this spelling of your name in the 'other names' section of the visa application form.
Include your 'other names' in the application form
We need to know if you have used other names that are in your translated documents.
For example, if:
- you have a different birth name, or name from a marriage or adoption
- you have other passports with a different name
- the translator used a different name or spelling when translating your documents into English.
In your visa application form, enter all other names that you have used in the section called 'other names'.
Check your translated document
Each translation must:
- be on the translation business’s official letterhead, if possible
- certified as a correct translation by the translator
- stamped or signed by the translator or translation business.
Submitting your original foreign language documents
When you apply for your visa, the supporting documents that you provide us are the:
- original document in a foreign language, and
- a certified English translation of the document.
How you provide the documents depends on if you are applying online or on a paper form.
If applying online, make sure all scanned copies are clear and readable.We may not need an original document or its certified copy in the following situations:
- if we asked for uncertified copies in our form or guide
- if you submitted a legible scan of the original document in the online form
- if you submitted a legible copy of the original document for a temporary entry visa.
When we process your application, we will contact you if we need you to send us a document.
File formats for uploading documents and photos
All documents uploaded must be PDFs and all images must be JPEG or JPG.Documents must be in PDF format
All documents you upload must be in a PDF format and as a single file. For example, if your bank statement is 4 pages, it must be uploaded as a single file and not 4 separate files. Try to avoid uploading multiple copies of the same document.
To merge pages, you can paste documents into a Microsoft Word document and save it as a PDF or use an online PDF merging tool.
Alert
Password protected or compressed files will be rejected by Immigration Online.
Creating PDF documents — wikihow.com
Reducing PDF document file size — wikihow.com
Merging PDF documents — wikihow.com
Passports and travel documents
If you are uploading a copy of your passport or travel document, it should clearly show your information page. This is the page with your photo, name, date of birth and document details such as your passport number and issuing location.
If you are applying for a Permanent Resident Visa, Second or Subsequent Resident Visa, Transit Visa or a variation of travel conditions for a resident visa
Each person included in your application will be asked to upload a scan of the information page of their passport or travel document at the beginning of the application.
The scan should only include the passport information page. You can upload a separate scan of any other required passport pages in the 'Supporting documents' section of the application.
Make sure the scan of the passport information page:
- is high-quality
- can be easily read including all your personal details
- includes the MRZ code - the string of characters on the bottom of the information page of your passport
- does not have any glare or discolouration.
Document size
Check the document file size requirements in the form you are completing. Make sure the documents you upload are not larger than what is allowed.
Photographs must be in JPG or JPEG format
You need to upload a photo of yourself showing a full-front view of your face as part of your application. Visa photos have specific requirements such as no smiling and no hair covering your face.
Face image
You are required to upload a photo showing a full-front view of your face as part of the application.
If you need to convert your photo to the JPG or JPEG format before you upload it, read the instructions on the wikiHow website.
Organise proof of identity, citizenship and age
If the child, or you, need a new passport, allow yourself enough time to get these.
When you apply for the visa, make sure identity details are entered exactly as they appear on the passport or certificate of identity.
Alert
If there are any mistakes in the identity details you provide, your application will be delayed. We may also decline your application or refuse the child entry into New Zealand.
Make sure your photos are acceptable for a New Zealand visa.
Visa and NZeTA photos
Your photo must be less than 6 months old and clearly identify you. It must also meet all of our technical requirements.Meeting our photo requirements
If your photo does not meet all of our requirements we will ask you for a new photo.
If you are applying for a visa, we will stop processing your application until we receive an acceptable photo. If you are requesting an NZeTA, your request may be delayed or refused.
Visa and NZeTA photos are not passport photos
Use the photo examples on this page to check your photo is correct and meets our requirements.
Alert
Do not use the New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs website or other online tools to check your photo as those tools are for passport photos only.
Using a professional photographer
Your photo is more likely to be accepted if you use a professional photographer or business that takes passport photos. Give the photographer our instructions to make sure you get a photo that meets our requirements.
Paper applications for visas
The photo you submit with a paper application must be 35 mm wide and 45 mm high. Further instructions are on the paper application forms.
Note
You can only apply for an NZeTA online.
Online applications for visas
The photo you submit with an online application must be:
- between 500 KB and 3 MB
- between 900 x 1,200 pixels and 2,250 x 3,000 pixels, and
- a JPG or JPEG file.
Alert
We are unlikely to accept your photo if it is not the right size.
Online requests for NZeTAs
If you request an NZeTA using the web app, you can either upload an existing photo or take one using your device's camera.
If you use the mobile app, you can only take a photo using your device's camera.
Your photo must be:
- less than 10 MB, and
- a JPG or JPEG file.
If you take a photo with your device, the camera must have a minimum resolution of 540 x 720 pixels. Large photos will be automatically formatted.
Online photo error messages
If there is an issue with your photo you will receive an error message when you submit your visa or NZeTA photo online. To help you, we have provided a list of online errors and how to fix them.
Taking your visa photo
Your photo must:
Be in portrait, not landscape
Be of you, not a photo of a photo or your travel document
Have even lighting with minimal shadowing
Be in colour, showing natural skin tones
Be in focus, not blurry
Not contain red-eye
Be an original photo, not changed by photo-editing software
Not be a selfie
Be taken 1.5 metres from the face
Be taken against a plain, light-coloured — but not white — background with no patterns or objects
Only contain plain clothing patterns
Be of one person
We need to clearly see your face
Face the camera and keep your head straight
Keep your eyes open and mouth closed
Do not smile or frown
Show your face clearly and that long hair is tucked behind your ears
Position yourself in the middle of the photo
Remove sunglasses and hats
If you wear prescription glasses
Make sure your eyes show clearly through the lenses, with no reflected light
It may be easier to remove them.
If you wear a head covering for religious or medical reasons
Make sure that your face and hairline can be seen in the photo
Organise a letter of support from Oranga Tamariki — Ministry for Children
Arrange written confirmation from Oranga Tamariki — Ministry for Children that they support the adoption.
Book medical appointments, if required
If you apply online, whether the child needs an X-ray or medical examination will depend on the health information you give us.
We will contact you if we need you to organise a medical appointment.
If they are needed, results of a chest X-ray or medical examination must be less than 3 months old when we receive them. Allow yourself enough time to get these.
Note
We may choose to remove this requirement for the child.
How to get an X-ray or medical examination
If you need a chest X-ray or medical examination for your visa application, you will need to make a doctor's appointment and take any relevant documents with you. You will need to provide evidence of your medical results in your application.Process overview
- Prepare your visa application as much as you can — check if you need an X-ray or medical examination and when.
- If you need an X-ray or examination, make an appointment.
- Get all the things you need for your appointment ready.
- Go to your appointment. The doctor may need you to take other tests — that can take more time.
- Provide evidence of your X-ray or medical examination results in your application.
- Get your results. You can share them with your immigration advisor.
Note
Your chest X-ray and medical examination results must be no more than 3 months old when we get your application.1. Check if you need a chest X-ray or medical examination
You can check the situations where you need an X-ray or medical examination, and the different types of examinations.
Who needs an X-ray or medical examination
If you need a medical examination, you normally get a 'general medical examination' unless you need a limited medical examination. A general medical examination is sometimes called a 'full medical examination'.
For some visas, you must have a chest X-ray, a medical examination or both before you apply.
For an Accredited Employer Work Visa or a Visitor Visa, we will let you know after you submit your application if you need a chest X-ray or medical examination.
2. Make an appointment
If you need a chest X-ray or medical examination, you must visit a doctor or radiologist from our list of 'panel physicians' — unless there are no panel physicians in your country.
Panel physicians are doctors and radiologists approved to complete chest X-rays and medical examinations for New Zealand visa applications.
Check if there is a panel physician in your country.
Doctors who can do examinations
If there is a panel physician in your country
You must visit a panel physician.
- Contact a panel physician to make an appointment for your chest X-ray or medical examination.
- Tell them it is for an Immigration New Zealand application and what visa you are applying for.
- Tell them the type of medical examination you need.
- You can ask the clinic about the costs when you make your appointment.
If there is no panel physician in your country
You can use any registered doctor.
- Contact your doctor to make an appointment for your X-ray or medical examination.
- Tell them it is for an Immigration New Zealand application.
- Tell them the type of medical examination you need.
- You can ask them about the costs when you make your appointment.
- Make sure you have a printed medical certificate form for the examination you need, and 3 passport sized photos.
If you are in New Zealand and only need a chest X-ray
You must visit a panel medical clinic who will refer you to a panel radiology clinic.
- Find a panel medical clinic from the list of approved panel physicians.
- Tell the clinic what type of visa you are applying for, and that you need a chest X-ray only.
- You will normally need to visit the clinic. Bring an identity document.
- The clinic will create a case for you and refer you to a panel radiology clinic.
Note
If there are other people on your application, they will each need an appointment.
If you are menstruating (having a period), you need to wait until your period finishes before having your medical examination. You cannot have your medical examination during your period because the blood can affect your urine test.
For an Accredited Employer Work Visa or Visitor Visa, if we need you to have a chest X-ray or medical examination, we give you an Immigration New Zealand health case reference number (NZHR). Give the NZHR to the clinic when you make your appointment.
Finding your eMedical and INZ health case reference numbers
Bringing someone with you to the appointment
You can bring a family member, support person or interpreter to your appointment.
Let the clinic know when you make your appointment if you are bringing someone with you.
If you are having a physical examination, you can ask the clinic for a chaperone. The clinic must have chaperones available.
3. Get what you need for your appointment
Have the following ready to bring to your appointment:
- an identity document
- your glasses or contact lenses if you use them
- a list of any medication you are taking, including dosage
- any relevant medical reports or X-rays
- other documents you need if you are not visiting a panel physician, or if you are using an immigration adviser.
Identity documents for X-rays and medical examinations
Note
If you are 17 years or under, you need your parent or legal guardian to come with you.
If you are visiting a doctor that is not a panel physician
If you are visiting any registered doctor because there are no panel physicians in your country, you need to also bring:
- 3 recent passport-sized photos less than 6 months old — you only need 1 photo if you are having a chest X-ray and not a medical examination, and
- a printed copy of the required medical certificate form for your doctor to complete and send to us.
Get the medical certificate form you need:
If you are using a licensed immigration adviser
You need to also bring a completed 'Immigration Adviser Details' form to give to the clinic.
4. Go to your appointment
Authority to collect medical information
At your medical appointment, you must sign a form to allow the doctor to send your medical information to us.
If you are 17 or younger, your parent or guardian must sign the form for you.
If your doctor is using eMedical, they will give you an eMedical client consent and declaration form to sign. You can read the form before your appointment:
What happens at the medical examination
There are 3 parts to the medical examination:
- medical history and physical examination
- urine and blood tests
- chest X-ray, if required.
The doctor checks your height, weight, mental state, hearing and vision, listens to your heart and lungs, feels your abdomen and checks your reflexes and other parts of your nervous system.
A nurse or health care assistant may complete parts of the examination.
You will need to:
- remove some items of clothing for the physical examination
- provide a urine sample during the medical examination
- get blood tests, and possibly a chest X-ray or other tests if needed — the clinic will tell you if you need these, and you may need to go to different places to get some tests done.
Paying for your medical examination
You must pay any costs related to your X-ray and medical examinations.
Note
Ask the clinic about the costs when you make your appointment.
5. Provide evidence of your results in your application
In your visa application, you need to provide evidence of your X-ray or examination results.
To show you had an examination you can either:
- tell us the eMedical reference code from your panel physician — we will get your results electronically (this is the quickest way)
- tell us the name of the clinic where you had the medical examination, or
- give us a copy of the completed medical certificate, if you did not visit a panel physician — the doctor will normally send your medical certificate to us, but you can ask them for a copy.
6. How to get your results
To get a copy of your results you can ask the doctor when you have your examination, or any time afterwards.
You can ask for email notifications. If you do, you will receive an email when your physician sends us your results. You cannot reply to this email.
If you have any questions about your results, discuss these with your doctor.
If you need a copy of your results
You can ask the clinic for a copy of your medical examination results.
Once we receive your results you can also contact us if you want a copy of them.
Sharing your medical information with an immigration adviser
If you have an immigration adviser, and would like them to be able to see and ask questions about your medical information, you need to:
- complete an ‘Immigration Adviser Details’ form and take it with you to your medical examination
- ask for copies of your results at your examination and give these to your immigration adviser when you receive them.
Your privacy
The panel physicians who use eMedical must agree to protect your personal information to meet New Zealand privacy laws.
Your information is sent to us using a secure online channel and is available only to us and the clinic where you were examined.
If you have any privacy concerns, you can contact us.
Organise proof you have enough money for the child to live on, if required
Get recent bank or credit card statements, and proof of any accommodation you have paid for already.
If you have a sponsor, make sure you get a copy of their completed 'Sponsorship Form for Temporary Entry'.
Organise proof the child can leave New Zealand, if required
Evidence can be a plane ticket, proof you have the money to buy one, or agreement that the child's sponsor will pay for any travel out of New Zealand.
Note
We may remove this requirement for the child.
-
2
Step 2: Submit your application and pay the fee
To apply online, log in to your account or set up an account if you do not have one already.
You can then fill in your application, upload your documents and pay the applicable fees.
Check the 'How to pay and submit' section for fees.
-
3
Step 3: Wait for our decision
We will let you know if we need more information to process your application.
Check the 'How to pay and submit' section for timeframes.
-
4
Step 4: Check your application status
Log in to your account to check the status of your application.
Check your application progress
We will email you when we make a decision.
If we approve your application, we will give the child an eVisa and send you a copy.
Check the 'When you arrive' section to find out what they can and cannot do when they come to New Zealand
How to apply on paper
Follow these steps to complete your application on paper.
Note
An application containing all the documents we need will prevent delays with processing.
-
1
Step 1: Gather your documents
The section 'Who can apply' explains the requirements for this visa and what you will need as proof.
Our guides for applying for a visitor visa can also help. These are also available in other languages.
Guides to applying for a visitor visa — Document search
Get documents translated
For your application, you must provide:
- certified English translations of any documents that are not in English
- scanned copies of the original documents.
Note
Documents must be translated by someone who meets our requirements for providing English translations.
Providing English translations of supporting documents
Check the requirements of the visa you are applying for. Provide certified translations of your documents to avoid delays processing your application.Check the visa application requirements
Residence visa applications
All supporting documents submitted with your resident visa application must be provided in English or include an English translation.
Visitor visa applications
Visitor visa requirements are changing
From 26 May 2025, supporting document translations for visitor visa applications will no longer need to be certified.
Changes to certification requirements for translations of visitor visa supporting documentsExamples of documents that require full translation include:
- proof of funds — such as bank statements, pay records (proof of funds must be fully translated, partial translations may not be accepted)
- 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.
All other visa applications
You must provide us with full certified English translations of all medical and police certificates. This includes police certificates that record no convictions.
Note
If your other evidence is not in English, you should provide a translated copy, as this will help us to process your application faster.
Our requirements for translated documents
Immigration New Zealand does not translate documents on behalf of visa applicants. You must pay for certified translations.
Who can complete a certified translation
You can provide certified translations completed by:
- reputable private or official translation businesses
- community members known for their accurate translations.
We do not accept translations completed by the applicant, family members, or the immigration adviser assisting with your application.
We will 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.
Using the English spelling of the name in your passport
Check your passport to see if it has your name written in English. Ask your translator to use this spelling when they translate your documents.
If a translator used a different spelling of your name in your translated documents, then include this spelling of your name in the 'other names' section of the visa application form.
Include your 'other names' in the application form
We need to know if you have used other names that are in your translated documents.
For example, if:
- you have a different birth name, or name from a marriage or adoption
- you have other passports with a different name
- the translator used a different name or spelling when translating your documents into English.
In your visa application form, enter all other names that you have used in the section called 'other names'.
Check your translated document
Each translation must:
- be on the translation business’s official letterhead, if possible
- certified as a correct translation by the translator
- stamped or signed by the translator or translation business.
Submitting your original foreign language documents
When you apply for your visa, the supporting documents that you provide us are the:
- original document in a foreign language, and
- a certified English translation of the document.
How you provide the documents depends on if you are applying online or on a paper form.
If applying online, make sure all scanned copies are clear and readable.We may not need an original document or its certified copy in the following situations:
- if we asked for uncertified copies in our form or guide
- if you submitted a legible scan of the original document in the online form
- if you submitted a legible copy of the original document for a temporary entry visa.
When we process your application, we will contact you if we need you to send us a document.
Organise proof of identity, citizenship and age
If the child, or you, need a new passport, allow yourself enough time to get these.
When you apply for the visa, make sure identity details are entered exactly as they appear on the passport or certificate of identity.
Alert
If there are any mistakes in the identity details you provide, your application will be delayed. We may also decline your application or refuse the child entry into New Zealand.
Make sure your photos are acceptable for a New Zealand visa.
Visa and NZeTA photos
Your photo must be less than 6 months old and clearly identify you. It must also meet all of our technical requirements.Meeting our photo requirements
If your photo does not meet all of our requirements we will ask you for a new photo.
If you are applying for a visa, we will stop processing your application until we receive an acceptable photo. If you are requesting an NZeTA, your request may be delayed or refused.
Visa and NZeTA photos are not passport photos
Use the photo examples on this page to check your photo is correct and meets our requirements.
Alert
Do not use the New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs website or other online tools to check your photo as those tools are for passport photos only.
Using a professional photographer
Your photo is more likely to be accepted if you use a professional photographer or business that takes passport photos. Give the photographer our instructions to make sure you get a photo that meets our requirements.
Paper applications for visas
The photo you submit with a paper application must be 35 mm wide and 45 mm high. Further instructions are on the paper application forms.
Note
You can only apply for an NZeTA online.
Online applications for visas
The photo you submit with an online application must be:
- between 500 KB and 3 MB
- between 900 x 1,200 pixels and 2,250 x 3,000 pixels, and
- a JPG or JPEG file.
Alert
We are unlikely to accept your photo if it is not the right size.
Online requests for NZeTAs
If you request an NZeTA using the web app, you can either upload an existing photo or take one using your device's camera.
If you use the mobile app, you can only take a photo using your device's camera.
Your photo must be:
- less than 10 MB, and
- a JPG or JPEG file.
If you take a photo with your device, the camera must have a minimum resolution of 540 x 720 pixels. Large photos will be automatically formatted.
Online photo error messages
If there is an issue with your photo you will receive an error message when you submit your visa or NZeTA photo online. To help you, we have provided a list of online errors and how to fix them.
Taking your visa photo
Your photo must:
Be in portrait, not landscape
Be of you, not a photo of a photo or your travel document
Have even lighting with minimal shadowing
Be in colour, showing natural skin tones
Be in focus, not blurry
Not contain red-eye
Be an original photo, not changed by photo-editing software
Not be a selfie
Be taken 1.5 metres from the face
Be taken against a plain, light-coloured — but not white — background with no patterns or objects
Only contain plain clothing patterns
Be of one person
We need to clearly see your face
Face the camera and keep your head straight
Keep your eyes open and mouth closed
Do not smile or frown
Show your face clearly and that long hair is tucked behind your ears
Position yourself in the middle of the photo
Remove sunglasses and hats
If you wear prescription glasses
Make sure your eyes show clearly through the lenses, with no reflected light
It may be easier to remove them.
If you wear a head covering for religious or medical reasons
Make sure that your face and hairline can be seen in the photo
Organise a letter of support from Oranga Tamariki — Ministry for Children
Arrange written confirmation from Oranga Tamariki — Ministry for Children that they support the adoption.
Book medical appointments, if required
If you have determined the child needs a chest X-ray or medical examination, you will need to arrange an appointment for them.
How to get an X-ray or medical examination
If you need a chest X-ray or medical examination for your visa application, you will need to make a doctor's appointment and take any relevant documents with you. You will need to provide evidence of your medical results in your application.Process overview
- Prepare your visa application as much as you can — check if you need an X-ray or medical examination and when.
- If you need an X-ray or examination, make an appointment.
- Get all the things you need for your appointment ready.
- Go to your appointment. The doctor may need you to take other tests — that can take more time.
- Provide evidence of your X-ray or medical examination results in your application.
- Get your results. You can share them with your immigration advisor.
Note
Your chest X-ray and medical examination results must be no more than 3 months old when we get your application.1. Check if you need a chest X-ray or medical examination
You can check the situations where you need an X-ray or medical examination, and the different types of examinations.
Who needs an X-ray or medical examination
If you need a medical examination, you normally get a 'general medical examination' unless you need a limited medical examination. A general medical examination is sometimes called a 'full medical examination'.
For some visas, you must have a chest X-ray, a medical examination or both before you apply.
For an Accredited Employer Work Visa or a Visitor Visa, we will let you know after you submit your application if you need a chest X-ray or medical examination.
2. Make an appointment
If you need a chest X-ray or medical examination, you must visit a doctor or radiologist from our list of 'panel physicians' — unless there are no panel physicians in your country.
Panel physicians are doctors and radiologists approved to complete chest X-rays and medical examinations for New Zealand visa applications.
Check if there is a panel physician in your country.
Doctors who can do examinations
If there is a panel physician in your country
You must visit a panel physician.
- Contact a panel physician to make an appointment for your chest X-ray or medical examination.
- Tell them it is for an Immigration New Zealand application and what visa you are applying for.
- Tell them the type of medical examination you need.
- You can ask the clinic about the costs when you make your appointment.
If there is no panel physician in your country
You can use any registered doctor.
- Contact your doctor to make an appointment for your X-ray or medical examination.
- Tell them it is for an Immigration New Zealand application.
- Tell them the type of medical examination you need.
- You can ask them about the costs when you make your appointment.
- Make sure you have a printed medical certificate form for the examination you need, and 3 passport sized photos.
If you are in New Zealand and only need a chest X-ray
You must visit a panel medical clinic who will refer you to a panel radiology clinic.
- Find a panel medical clinic from the list of approved panel physicians.
- Tell the clinic what type of visa you are applying for, and that you need a chest X-ray only.
- You will normally need to visit the clinic. Bring an identity document.
- The clinic will create a case for you and refer you to a panel radiology clinic.
Note
If there are other people on your application, they will each need an appointment.
If you are menstruating (having a period), you need to wait until your period finishes before having your medical examination. You cannot have your medical examination during your period because the blood can affect your urine test.
For an Accredited Employer Work Visa or Visitor Visa, if we need you to have a chest X-ray or medical examination, we give you an Immigration New Zealand health case reference number (NZHR). Give the NZHR to the clinic when you make your appointment.
Finding your eMedical and INZ health case reference numbers
Bringing someone with you to the appointment
You can bring a family member, support person or interpreter to your appointment.
Let the clinic know when you make your appointment if you are bringing someone with you.
If you are having a physical examination, you can ask the clinic for a chaperone. The clinic must have chaperones available.
3. Get what you need for your appointment
Have the following ready to bring to your appointment:
- an identity document
- your glasses or contact lenses if you use them
- a list of any medication you are taking, including dosage
- any relevant medical reports or X-rays
- other documents you need if you are not visiting a panel physician, or if you are using an immigration adviser.
Identity documents for X-rays and medical examinations
Note
If you are 17 years or under, you need your parent or legal guardian to come with you.
If you are visiting a doctor that is not a panel physician
If you are visiting any registered doctor because there are no panel physicians in your country, you need to also bring:
- 3 recent passport-sized photos less than 6 months old — you only need 1 photo if you are having a chest X-ray and not a medical examination, and
- a printed copy of the required medical certificate form for your doctor to complete and send to us.
Get the medical certificate form you need:
If you are using a licensed immigration adviser
You need to also bring a completed 'Immigration Adviser Details' form to give to the clinic.
4. Go to your appointment
Authority to collect medical information
At your medical appointment, you must sign a form to allow the doctor to send your medical information to us.
If you are 17 or younger, your parent or guardian must sign the form for you.
If your doctor is using eMedical, they will give you an eMedical client consent and declaration form to sign. You can read the form before your appointment:
What happens at the medical examination
There are 3 parts to the medical examination:
- medical history and physical examination
- urine and blood tests
- chest X-ray, if required.
The doctor checks your height, weight, mental state, hearing and vision, listens to your heart and lungs, feels your abdomen and checks your reflexes and other parts of your nervous system.
A nurse or health care assistant may complete parts of the examination.
You will need to:
- remove some items of clothing for the physical examination
- provide a urine sample during the medical examination
- get blood tests, and possibly a chest X-ray or other tests if needed — the clinic will tell you if you need these, and you may need to go to different places to get some tests done.
Paying for your medical examination
You must pay any costs related to your X-ray and medical examinations.
Note
Ask the clinic about the costs when you make your appointment.
5. Provide evidence of your results in your application
In your visa application, you need to provide evidence of your X-ray or examination results.
To show you had an examination you can either:
- tell us the eMedical reference code from your panel physician — we will get your results electronically (this is the quickest way)
- tell us the name of the clinic where you had the medical examination, or
- give us a copy of the completed medical certificate, if you did not visit a panel physician — the doctor will normally send your medical certificate to us, but you can ask them for a copy.
6. How to get your results
To get a copy of your results you can ask the doctor when you have your examination, or any time afterwards.
You can ask for email notifications. If you do, you will receive an email when your physician sends us your results. You cannot reply to this email.
If you have any questions about your results, discuss these with your doctor.
If you need a copy of your results
You can ask the clinic for a copy of your medical examination results.
Once we receive your results you can also contact us if you want a copy of them.
Sharing your medical information with an immigration adviser
If you have an immigration adviser, and would like them to be able to see and ask questions about your medical information, you need to:
- complete an ‘Immigration Adviser Details’ form and take it with you to your medical examination
- ask for copies of your results at your examination and give these to your immigration adviser when you receive them.
Your privacy
The panel physicians who use eMedical must agree to protect your personal information to meet New Zealand privacy laws.
Your information is sent to us using a secure online channel and is available only to us and the clinic where you were examined.
If you have any privacy concerns, you can contact us.
To complete your application, you will need to provide the:
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reference code from the clinic submitting the child's health information - name of the clinic submitting the child's health information, if there is no eMedical reference code, or
- medical certificate, chest X-ray certificate, or both if the clinic gave these to you.
Results of a chest X-ray or medical examination must be less than 3 months old when we receive them. Allow yourself enough time to get these.
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Step 2: Complete the application form
Complete the application form and attach all supporting documents.
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Step 3: Submit your application and pay the fee
You can take your application to a Visa Application Centre (VAC) or post it to them.
Check the 'How to pay and submit' section for fees where to submit your application.
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Step 4: Wait for our decision
We will let you know if we need more information to process your application.
We will email you when we make a decision.
Check the 'How to pay and submit' section for timeframes.
If we approve your application, we will give the child an eVisa and email you a copy.
Check the 'While the child is in New Zealand' section to find out what they can and cannot do when they come to New Zealand.
How to pay and submit
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When the child gets their visa
The child's visa is valid from:
- the date they enter New Zealand, if they are outside New Zealand when we approve your application, or
- the date they get their visa, if they are already in New Zealand.
They must leave New Zealand before their visa expires.
Note
If the child is already in New Zealand, they must have a valid visa. If their current temporary visa is going to expire while they are waiting for our decision, we will normally give them an Interim Visa to let them stay in New Zealand lawfully.
When the child arrives
Entry permission
The child must apply for permission to enter New Zealand. This is done by completing a New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) form.
Caregivers may complete a declaration on behalf of children or babies they are travelling with.
The digital declaration can be started at any time, but the earliest it can be submitted is 24 hours before travelling to New Zealand.
A paper declaration form is available for those who cannot complete it online.
New Zealand Traveller Declaration
New Zealand Customs and Biosecurity will also check that the child meets their entry requirements.
Alert
The child can be refused entry permission if they:
- do not meet our character requirements
- have had a change in circumstances since we gave them a visa
- refuse to let us take their photo, fingerprints or an iris scan.
When you travel to New Zealand on a temporary visa, your intentions must be genuine. This means that you: We use all the information we have, including the information you give us in your application, to confirm that you have genuine intentions. Alert You must answer truthfully when you complete your visa application or NZTD. If you are travelling on a visitor visa or visiting from a
If you have a visitor visa for a specific reason, you must be coming to New Zealand for that reason. For example, if you have a Medical Treatment Visitor Visa, your reason for visiting must be getting medical treatment. If you are travelling on a student visa, you must have genuine intentions to study in New Zealand. You can only work if the conditions of your student visa allow you to. If you are travelling to New Zealand to work, you must have a visa that will allow you to. Unless your visa allows you to work in any job, you must plan to work in the job, for the employer, and in the location specified in your visa. You may be asked to provide evidence of your genuine intentions: Here are some examples of evidence to show that you have genuine intentions in coming to New Zealand. To show your travel history, you could show a copy of your current and recent passports, including: If you live in a country that is not your country of citizenship, provide a copy of the visa allowing you to live in that country. If you have ever had a visa application declined by any other country, provide: If you plan to visit family or friends in New Zealand, provide their: Evidence of your travel plans while in New Zealand could include copies of: You may also need to show that you have plans to leave New Zealand at the end of your stay. This evidence could include: If you are applying for a student visa, you could provide evidence that you have: If you do not need to pay tuition fees, or if you can pay by instalment — where you make smaller payments over a period of time — you must provide confirmation from your education provider. You can also write a cover letter or statement of purpose explaining why you want to study in New Zealand. This will help us decide if you are a genuine student. If you are using an education agent or licensed immigration adviser, they cannot write the letter for you. Examples of things you could write about in your letter or statement include: If you plan to apply for another visa — for example, a work visa — after you finish your studies, include this in your cover letter or statement of purpose.
To show that you have genuine intentions to work, you will in most cases need to provide: If your visa requires you to have enough money to live on during your stay, you will need to provide evidence. This could include: Depending on your situation, you may need to provide: We consider each application based on the information and evidence we receive. If you do not provide enough evidence, it may take us longer to process your application, or we may decline your application. You must provide genuine evidence. If you or your agent provide evidence that is false or misleading, we may also decline your application. False, misleading or withheld information in visa applications Check the translation requirements for the visa you are applying for. All non-English documents must be translated when you apply for visitor and resident visas. Providing English translations of supporting documents If you are applying online, make sure your evidence is in an acceptable file format. To decide if your intentions are genuine, we look at: We look at evidence you provide with your application to check that it: When we consider information about your personal circumstances, we look at: We also look at information from your previous applications and travel to New Zealand. This can show us if you have: We might not give you a visa or allow you to enter New Zealand if we:
Genuine intentions to visit, study or work in New Zealand
Before you can get a visa or enter New Zealand to visit, work or study, we check that your reasons for coming here are genuine.
What it means to have 'genuine intentions'
Visitor visas
Student visas
Work visas
Evidence to show you have genuine intentions
Evidence of your travel history
If you live in a different country to your citizenship
Declined visa applications
Evidence you are visiting family or friends
Evidence of your travel plans
Evidence of your study plans
Evidence of your work plans
Evidence you have enough money
Evidence of your home country circumstances
evidence of your relationships with close relatives in your home country
Providing good-quality evidence
How we decide if your intentions are genuine
Evidence you provide with your application
Your personal circumstances
Your previous applications
If we decide your intentions are not genuine
If you have been refused entry to New Zealand and you still want to travel to here, contact the Customer Service Centre for advice. You may need to apply for a visa before you travel here again. Together with your airline or other carrier, we can stop you from travelling to New Zealand if you do not meet our entry requirements — for example, if you cannot provide evidence that you can meet the conditions of your visa. When you arrive we check your identity and other information again before we give you
Alert Having a visa does not guarantee that you will be allowed to enter New Zealand. Your airline or other carrier can be fined if they let you board an aircraft or ship after we have let them know that you cannot travel. We can stop you from travelling to New Zealand if: We can stop you travelling to New Zealand or entering the country if you: We can also refuse to let you travel to or enter New Zealand if you cannot show us evidence to support the conditions of your visa. For example, you cannot show us evidence that you: Genuine intentions to visit, study or work in NZ If your circumstances have changed and you can no longer meet the conditions of your visa we can also refuse to let you enter New Zealand. For example, if your work visa is based on a job offer that has since been withdrawn you will not be allowed to travel to New Zealand on that visa. You cannot come to New Zealand if you do not meet our health and character requirements. For example, you can be refused entry if: You could be refused entry to New Zealand if you:
What might stop you from being allowed to enter New Zealand
Together with your airline or other carrier, we can stop you from travelling to New Zealand if you do not meet our entry requirements. For example, if you cannot provide evidence that you can meet the conditions of your visa.
Why we stop you travelling to or entering New Zealand
Your identity and travel documents
Information you provide to us
Meeting the conditions of your visa
Your character and health
Arriving in New Zealand
While the child is in New Zealand
The child's visa conditions are recorded in their eVisa.
Travel
If the child will be travelling in and out of New Zealand, their visa must have a valid
To be eligible, the child must not have been in New Zealand for more than 9 months in the last 18 months.
Alert
If their visa does not have a multiple-entry travel condition and they leave New Zealand, their visa will expire.
Every time they travel here, they must have a ticket to leave New Zealand or proof you have enough money to buy one — unless their visa states 'Return/onward travel not required'.
Study
School-aged children can study for up to 3 months in any calendar year.
Note
If children are going to be studying for more than 2 weeks, their education provider must be a signatory to the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021.
Find out if an education provider is a signatory, and how the code protects international students.
Wellbeing and safety for international learners — New Zealand Qualifications Authority
The child may be able to apply for a Dependent Child Student Visa instead of a visitor visa, allowing them to study full time as a
- their adoption application is before the New Zealand Family Court and is supported by Oranga Tamariki — Ministry for Children, or
- the New Zealand Family Court has granted an Interim Order for their adoption, or
- their adoption application is through an intercountry adoption process under the Hague Convention and is supported by Oranga Tamariki — Ministry for Children, and at least one of the adoptive parents is a New Zealand citizen or resident.
Eligible children who are school age or nearing school age should apply for a Dependent Child Student Visa. Include a cover letter with the application explaining the child is entering New Zealand for adoption.
Work
The child cannot work in New Zealand on a visitor visa.
Staying longer
The child may be granted further visas to allow them to stay in New Zealand while the Department of Internal Affairs assesses citizenship applications.
Further visas are granted for a maximum of 12 months at a time.