VISITOR'S VISA TO NEW ZEALAND

LIMITED PURPOSE VISA TO NEW ZEALAND

Persons who hold passport of a visa-free country do not have to apply for a visitor's visa to travel to New Zealand for a general holiday or visit of up to three months (or six months for UK passport holders).

Persons who are not from visa-free countries will need to apply for a visitor's visa if they wish to travel to New Zealand for purposes other than work or study. In some cases, applicants may not qualify for a visitor's visa because of the risk that they will overstay. A limited purpose visa may be offered to individuals in these circumstances.

NEW ZEALAND LIMITED PURPOSE VISA BASIC REQUIREMENTS

To get a limited purpose visa, applicants must choose to enter New Zealand for an 'express purpose'. An express purpose is the specific reason for travel to New Zealand. It may be to undertake a short course, attend a wedding or funeral, or a family emergency.

Applicants also need to meet the basic health and good character requirements, and be genuine visitors for the express purpose. That is, they do not intend to work or undertake study (unless the study is the express purpose).

Applicants must have proof of travel arrangements to leave New Zealand at the end of their visa, and have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay, or be sponsored by a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident who will provide accommodation and maintenance.

NEW ZEALAND LIMITED PURPOSE VISA ENTITLEMENTS

A limited purpose visa allows individuals to travel to New Zealand. Once they arrive in New Zealand, an Immigration Officer will check the conditions on the visa, and if satisfied that the holder meets the requirements, will grant a limited purpose permit allowing them to stay for the period specified on the permit.

Limited purpose permit holders:

• Must leave New Zealand no later than the date their permit expires;
• May not apply for another type of permit while in New Zealand, however, they may apply for another limited purpose permit for the same express purpose;
• May not request a special direction or permit under section 35A of the Immigration Act 1987; and
• Do not have the same appeal rights as other permit holders.

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