If you want to visit New Zealand, it is important to acquaint yourself with the rules and regulations surrounding the VISA. Ironing this out beforehand will lead to a more stress free trip and leave time for what really matters.

Documents you need for VISA application

VISA application sounds like a long and scary procedure but it is very simple if you just take the right steps and are prepared for it. Here are the documents you will need for a perfect application:

• Passport: Passports are a must for international travel. Make sure the validity is well past your intended period of travel though. .
• Passport Size Photographs: A regular VISA application needs two recent passport size photographs.
• VISA Application Form: This is the form needed to apply for a VISA. You can get this from either the embassy or online
• VISA Application Fee: You will also need to pay a nominal fee while submitting your application.
• Travel itinerary: Sharing all your flight details is necessary while flying into, within or out of the country.
• Proof of Accommodation: You will also need to share the details regarding your hotel reservations. Alternatively, you could also share your sponsor's address. .
• Proof of Means: You must share your bank statements, salary slips or the same from your sponsor. .
• Travel Insurance: Most countries have made travel insurance mandatory and you must share proof. .

Note: that specific document requirements may vary based on your nationality and visa type.

Visa Application Guidelines

The top tips for a perfect VISA application are listed below:

• Make sure you check the box beside the correct type of VISA you are applying for. There are many types to choose from.
• To stay updated with the current rules and regulations you must visit the New Zealand government website regularly.
• Make sure you attach all the necessary updated documents mentioned above while submitting your VISA application form.
• You must also pay the VISA application fee in full to make sure that the application process goes through
• You may submit your VISA application form at the embassy or online depending on your mode of application.
• VISA processing time is generally not short and it is wise you apply for it using an intended date of travel.

Different Types of New Zealand Visa

New Zealand offers a wide variety of VISAs which are classified on the basis of purpose and duration. They are as follows:

Visitor VISAs

• Tourist Visa: Meant for tourists coming for a trip or to visit family and friends.
• Business Visitor VISA: Meant for people visiting for short-term business.
• Family Visitor VISA: Meant for family members of New Zealand citizens.

Work VISAs

• Essential Skills Work VISA: Meant for foreign workers that qualify under the country's skills shortage list.
• Silver Fern VISA:Meant for youngsters who want to work in and explore New Zealand for a short period.
• Skilled Migrant Category VISA: Meant for skilled workers who want to permanently work and reside in New Zealand.
• Working Holiday VISA: Meant for working individuals from certain countries who can work and stay in New Zealand for up to 12 months.

Student VISAs

• Student VISA: Meant for students who want to study at a recognised institution in New Zealand.
• Student Guardian VISA: Meant for parents or legal guardians of foreign students studying in New Zealand.

Family and Partnership VISAs

• Partnership VISA: Meant for foreign individuals sharing a steady relationship with a citizen of New Zealand.
• Parent Retirement VISA: Meant for parents of New Zealand citizens who want to stay with them.

Resident VISAs

• Skilled Migrant Category Resident VISA: Meant for skilled workers who meet the points required for permanent residency.
• Investor Resident VISA: Meant for foreign investors looking to invest a considerable amount into the country.
• Parent Resident VISA: Meant for parents of New Zealand citizens who want to become permanent residents by making them sponsors.

Entrepreneur and Investor VISAs

• Entrepreneur Work VISA: Meant for individuals looking to purchase, establish or invest in a business in New Zealand.
• Investor VISA: Meant for foreign investors looking to invest a considerable amount into the country.

Humanitarian and Other VISAs

• Refugee Family Support Category VISA: Meant for New Zealand residents looking to sponsor their refugee family members and make them residents.
• Residence from Work VISA: Meant for foreign individuals with a temporary work VISA looking to apply for permanent residency.

Temporary VISAs

• Transit VISA: Meant for passengers changing flights at New Zealand.
• Limited VISA: Meant for people coming in for specific purposes like getting a medical treatment done, participating in a sports event or attending a conference.

Note: It is advisable to keep checking the New Zealand government website to stay updated with this list as it is subject to change.