Now that our borders are fully open and offshore visa applications are also open, New Zealand is finally able to welcome travellers, students and skilled workers from overseas. We list what the New Zealand border reopening means for interested tourists, what they should take note of upon their arrival, and what to do if their plans change whilst they are here.
What Do You Need to Visit New Zealand?
Make sure you understand the COVID-19 requirements and have prepared all the appropriate forms of documentation before your departure.
Health Requirements
From 21 June, a pre-departure Covid test is no longer required. Most travellers do not need to show evidence of being vaccinated for COVID-19, but some airlines or cruise operators do still require this.
Isolation is not required upon arrival, but you will be given a pack of rapid antigen tests (RATs) for self-testing on day 0/1 when you arrive in New Zealand and on day 5/6. Here is more information on what to do if you test positive while on holiday in New Zealand.
Documentation
Check that your passport is still valid for travel. If you are not a New Zealand or Australian citizen, you may need to apply for a valid visa or a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) depending on the intended length of stay.
Before arrival, check if you need to apply for a visa or NZeTA, and complete a traveller declaration form if you’re arriving by air.
Some visa categories will require you to purchase travel insurance for your stay in New Zealand. Before making a purchase, we recommend checking what your insurance plan covers for COVID-19-related incidents during your stay.
What Should You Do If Your Plans Change?
On a visitor visa, you can visit for up to 3 months to travel, visit friends and family, and study for a short period. If you want to stay in New Zealand after your visitor visa expires, you can extend it for longer or secure a different visa type depending on what you plans in New Zealand are.
If you intend on studying long-term, a student visa will allow you to leave and re-enter New Zealand throughout your study. You may also be able to work part time. If you intend on working, seek further details from an adviser as there have been major changes to work visas this year.
Some work visas can also lead to residence – for example if you hold a job offer or job role on the Green List. We recommend speaking to an experienced immigration adviser for advice on your eligibility.
Extend Your Stay in New Zealand with NZ Visa Connections
We understand that life can be unpredictable, and plans can change without warning. That’s why NZ Visa Connections is here to help with changing visa needs during your stay in New Zealand. If you’re struggling with a visa application or have no idea where to start, get in touch and we can set you up to submit a perfect application.
