With the summer season starting in December, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is preparing for an increase in visitor visa applications, forecasting over 260,000 applications during this peak period.
To accommodate the influx, INZ is advising those planning to visit during Christmas to submit their applications by October 15, 2024. The deadline for visitors arriving in the New Year, including during the Chinese Lunar New Year celebrations, is set for November 15, 2024, VisaGuide.World reports.
If you submit your application after these dates, it may not be processed in time for your intended travel date. In addition to submitting applications well in advance, we strongly encourages travellers to provide complete applications with all necessary documentation. This will help avoid delays with your visa application.
To expedite the visa process, INZ offers the following tips for a smoother application experience:
Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from New Zealand.
Clear Passport Scan: Provide a clear, scanned copy of the passport’s bio page.
Acceptable Photo: Submit a photo that meets INZ’s specifications to avoid processing delays.
Accurate Details: Verify that personal details such as name, passport number, and date of birth match your passport exactly.
Genuine Intentions: Include documentation that demonstrates your intent to visit temporarily and return home.
English Documentation: Submit all supporting documents in English or provide certified translations for non-English materials.
New Zealand Hikes Visa Fees From October 1, 2024
The decision has raised concerns among various stakeholders, including the Airline Representatives Board (BARNZ), who argue that the fare hike could lead to a drop in tourist arrivals.
Tourism organizations have also expressed disappointment, noting the government’s lack of consultation regarding the timing of the fee increase. They argue that rising visa costs due to declining demand from international visitors could further reduce travel appeal.
The fee increase will also affect international students seeking to study in the country. Critics warn that higher visa costs could reduce New Zealand’s appeal as an international education destination, potentially affecting the country’s competitiveness in the global market for students.