New Zealand has streamlined its visa process to make it easier for applicants to submit their documents online — no paperwork, no queues. Whether you’re heading to the Land of the Long White Cloud for work, study, tourism, residency, or to join family, here’s the latest detailed guide on how to apply for a New Zealand visa online as of 2025.
Step 1: Decide Which Visa to Apply For
Before starting your application, it’s essential to choose the correct visa category. New Zealand offers several visa options including:
- Work Visas – For skilled workers, seasonal employees, and others seeking employment
- Student Visas – For full-time international students
- Visitor Visas – For tourism, business, or short stays
- Resident Visas – For those planning to live permanently
- Family Visas – For those joining or sponsoring family in NZ
- Refugee Family Support – For refugees wanting to reunite with family
You can explore visa options using New Zealand Immigration’s Visa Search and Comparison Tool here https://www.immigration.govt.nz/process-to-apply/find-a-visa-tool/.
Note: Some visas require you to first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) – Ref . If eligible, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) will then invite you to submit a full application.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Once you’ve selected the right visa, gather and prepare the required documentation:
- Passport-style photo (must meet NZ visa photo guidelines)
- Medical and police certificates (must be in English)
- Supporting documents – e.g., financial proof, offer letters, travel plans — all must be in English or with certified English translations.
Additionally, supporting documents such as proof of finances, offer letters, and travel plans must be provided, and these should also be in English or accompanied by certified English translations. It’s crucial to ensure that all files you upload are in acceptable digital formats, clear, and meet Immigration New Zealand’s technical standards.
For some visa types, medical certificates may not be required at the time of application — you may only need to provide them later if specifically requested by immigration authorities. For more guidance, refer to official resources on file format requirements, visa and NZeTA photo guidelines, and how to provide English translations.
Step 3: Create a RealMe Account
To begin your online visa application, most applicants will need a RealMe login. You’ll be prompted to create one when applying. You do not need a RealMe account for:
- Working Holiday Visas
- Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the Skilled Migrant Category.
Step 4: Submit Your Online Application & Pay
Once logged in:
- Fill in the visa application form
- Upload all supporting documents and passport-sized photo(s)
- Pay the visa fee online using Visa, Mastercard, or UnionPay.
Step 5: After You Apply
Once submitted, Immigration New Zealand may contact you if further information is needed.
Visa processing time depends on:
- Your visa type
- Your country of residence
- The volume of applications INZ is processing
Track your application online and wait for a decision — no in-person visits needed.
New Policy: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/process-to-apply/applying-for-a-visa/applying-online/how-to-apply-for-a-visa-online/.