New Zealand has decided to move the transit visa application process online in an attempt to simplify the procedure for all those who need the document.
As the New Zealand Immigration (NZ) explains, the new policy is expected to come into force from August 12 of this year, VisaGuide.World reports.
Once this policy becomes effective, the application for a Transit Visa can be made via the Enhanced Immigration Online system.
People applying for a Transit Visa will no longer have to submit paper applications through Visa Application Centres, which will provide a more streamlined and efficient experience and remove fees associated with submitting through a Visa Application Centre.
The same authority further revealed that applicants who apply for group Transit Visas for Chinese citizens are subject to the paper application process.
In this regard, NZ said that the country is working to enable the online application category for these citizens as well.
New Zealand Will Expand Its Transit Visa Waiver List Adding Fiji From Next Month
New Zealand has also decided to add Fiji to its Transit Visa Waiver. Starting September 4, 2024, Fijian nationals can apply for an NZeTA Transit instead of a transit visa. NZeTA Transit specifically applies to passengers transiting through Auckland International Airport.
From this date, Fiji nationals can apply for an NZeTA to transit through New Zealand. If you already have an approved Transit Visa, it will remain valid until its expiry date, even after the waiver takes effect.
Most NZeTA claims can be processed within 72 hours and are valid for up to two years
Fijian Travelers Categories Who Still Need a Visa to Visit New Zealand
Fijian nationals intending to visit, study or work in New Zealand will still need to apply for the appropriate visa before traveling. Those traveling to or from Fiji via Wellington or Christchurch on Fiji Airways will still need to apply for a visitor visa, as there are no transit facilities at Wellington or Christchurch airports.
However, in June of this year, New Zealand authorities announced that the country would soon expect Fijians to no longer require a Transit Visa to travel through New Zealand.
Through a meeting between New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and his Fijian counterpart Sitiveni Rabuka earlier, a target was set to raise bilateral trade to $2 billion by 2030. It currently stands at $1.4 billion.
The soon-to-be-abolished transit visa was one of the final immigration conditions between New Zealand and Fiji after the 2006 coup. The visa was intended to prevent Fijians from seeking asylum in New Zealand.