New Zealand Tourist Visa from India
New Zealand, with its stunning natural beauty, is on the travel bucket list of countless people. From the dramatic fiords of Milford Sound to the bubbling geothermal wonders of Rotorua, and from the lively urban vibe of Auckland to the cultural charm of Wellington, the country promises a truly unforgettable journey.
For Indian travelers eager to experience this remarkable destination, obtaining a tourist visa is a must. This guide provides a clear overview of everything Indian citizens need to know before applying for a New Zealand tourist visa.
Types of New Zealand Tourist Visas for Indians
If you’re traveling to New Zealand from India, the visa you’ll need to apply for is the New Zealand Visitor Visa. This category covers tourism, visiting friends or family, and even short-term study programs lasting up to 3 months. Since Indian citizens are not eligible for New Zealand’s visa-waiver scheme, obtaining this visa before your journey is mandatory.
Visitor Visas can be granted as single-entry or multiple-entry permits.
- A single-entry visa generally allows you to stay for up to 9 months during one trip.
- A multiple-entry visa, on the other hand, lets you visit multiple times, with each stay lasting up to 6 months, and an overall validity of up to 18 months.
New Zealand Tourist Visa Process
New Zealand tourist visa process is a straightforward procedure, carried out mostly online. Below is a simplified guide to help you through the steps:
- Choose the right visa –
- Prepare your documents –
- Set up a RealMe account –
- Complete the online form –
- Pay the application fee –
- Upload supporting documents –
- Provide biometrics –
- Wait for the outcome –
For leisure travel, visiting family/friends, or short study courses, the Visitor Visa is the suitable option.
Gather all required paperwork as per Immigration New Zealand’s checklist.
This account on the official Immigration New Zealand portal is essential for lodging your application.
Fill in the Visitor Visa application carefully, ensuring accuracy in all details.
Fees can be paid online using a debit or credit card.
Provide scanned copies of all relevant documents.
After submission, you’ll be asked to visit a nearby VFS Global center to give fingerprints and a photograph.
Once everything is submitted, Immigration New Zealand will assess your application. You can track progress online until a decision is made.
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New Zealand Tourist visa Requirements
To qualify for a New Zealand Visitor Visa, applicants must satisfy certain conditions. These requirements are designed to ensure that you are traveling with genuine intent and will respect the visa terms.
- Health Requirements:
- Character Requirements:
- Genuine Intent:
- Financial Stability:
You should be in good health. In some cases, Immigration New Zealand may request a medical check-up or chest X-ray, depending on your stay duration and personal circumstances.
You must have a clean background and no serious criminal history. If your total time in New Zealand exceeds 24 months, a police clearance certificate may be required.
You need to show that your trip is temporary and that you plan to return to India. Proof can include stable employment, family connections, or property ownership in India.
You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses while staying in New Zealand.
New Zealand Tourist visa Documents Required
When applying for a New Zealand Visitor Visa, you’ll need to prepare and submit a set of documents. While the following list covers the commonly required New Zealand tourist visa documents, it’s always advisable to cross-check with the official Immigration New Zealand website for the latest updates.
- Valid Passport:
- Application Form:
- Photographs:
- Cover Letter:
- Financial Proof:
- Personal bank statements (last 6 months)
- Income Tax Returns (last 3 years)
- Other financial evidence like fixed deposits, investments, or property documents
- Employment/Occupation Proof:
- For employees:
- For self-employed:
- For retired applicants:
- For students:
- Accommodation & Travel Plan:
- Return Tickets:
- Invitation Letter (if visiting family/friends):
- Additional Papers for Minors:
Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from New Zealand. Previous passports should also be included.
Completed and signed Visitor Visa application form.
Two recent passport-size photos (taken within the last 6 months) on a plain white background.
A personal letter explaining your reason for travel, trip details, and an assurance of returning to India after your visit.
Employer’s leave approval letter, employment contract, and last 3 months’ salary slips.
Business registration certificate or MOA, company’s financial statements, and ITRs.
Pension statements or retirement proof.
School/university ID card and a bona fide certificate.
Confirmed hotel bookings and a detailed itinerary of your trip.
Proof of confirmed return air travel.
A formal letter from your host in New Zealand, along with a copy of their passport and residence proof.
Birth certificate, No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the parent not traveling, and ID proof of parents.
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New Zealand Tourist visa fees in Indian Rupees
Applicants for a New Zealand Visitor Visa must show proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay. Currently, the requirement is NZD $1,000 per month for living expenses. However, if your accommodation costs are already paid in advance, the amount is reduced to NZD $400 per month.
For an Indian traveler, you need to show proof of sufficient funds while applying for a New Zealand Visitor Visa.
- New Zealand tourist visa fees in Indian rupees IS ₹50,000 per month (around NZD $1,000) if you are managing your own stay.
- ₹20,000 per month (around NZD $400) if your accommodation has already been prepaid.
Acceptable proof of funds includes bank statements, credit card statements, or traveler’s cheques.
New Zealand Tourist visa Processing time
The time taken to process a New Zealand Visitor Visa can differ depending on various factors such as the visa category, how complete your application is, and the number of applications being handled at that point in time.
- Average Timeline:
- During Peak Seasons:
- Pro Tip:
Generally, it takes about 20 to 35 working days for a tourist visa application from India to be processed.
In busy travel months like April–June and October–December, processing can take longer — sometimes up to 50 days or more.
To avoid last-minute hassles, it’s best to apply at least 1–2 months before your travel date. Submitting all documents correctly and on time can also help speed up the process.