A New Zealand visa is an official endorsement that allows a foreign national to enter, stay, or work in New Zealand for a specific period. Visas are required for most non-citizens and non-residents who wish to travel or relocate to New Zealand, though certain short-term visitors from visa-waiver countries may enter temporarily without one.
There are several types of visa, each tailored to a different purpose and length of stay.
Visitor visas
Visitor visas permit travel and short-term stays for tourism or visiting family and friends, as well as short-term study of no more than three months.
Student visas
Student visas allow foreign nationals to study at a New Zealand educational institution for longer than three months.
Work visas
Work visas are issued to those seeking employment — either for a specific job, through employer sponsorship, or on a temporary basis, such as through completing a recognised qualification in New Zealand, or via a partnership-based application.
Resident visas
Resident visas enable permanent living and working rights in New Zealand, often granted through the skilled migration residence category, a family category, a business category (investor and entrepreneur), or a special category such as refugee.
The specific visa you need depends on many factors, including your nationality, your intended activities, and how long you plan to stay in New Zealand.
Immigration advice
Many people need advice to navigate this system, and there is a licensing scheme and specific regulations around who can provide it.
New Zealand's Licensed Immigration Adviser (LIA) scheme exists so that people seeking immigration advice receive reliable, professional support. Established and regulated by the Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA), the scheme requires advisers to be fully licensed, meeting set standards of knowledge, competence, and ethics. Only licensed advisers, or exempt professionals such as immigration lawyers, are legally allowed to provide immigration advice — which protects clients against misinformation and fraud. Licensed advisers are qualified to assist with visa applications, residence pathways, and compliance with New Zealand's immigration laws, giving applicants confidence that they are receiving expert guidance throughout the process.