Immigration New Zealand updates Visitor Visa durations

Immigration New Zealand has recently updated its guidance on visitor visa durations to make the process clearer and more consistent. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Starting Point - Three-Month Stay:

   • The new recommended starting point for offshore general visitor visa applications is a three-month stay.

   • This applies if the applicant hasn’t spent more than nine out of the last 18 months in New Zealand.

   • This aligns with the durations granted to visitors from most visa-waiver countries.

2. Flexibility for Individual Circumstances:

   • Immigration officers now have the discretion to grant different durations based on individual circumstances and the reasons stated in the application.

   • This new guidance allows you to request longer stays if necessary, with a well-justified reason.