The New Zealand Visitor Visa application process for Indian passport holders

1. Eligibility & Core Requirements

   • Indian citizens must obtain a Visitor Visa in advance; no visa-on-arrival or e-visa.

   • Passport valid for ≥ 6 months beyond entry date with ≥ 2 blank pages.

   • Travel strictly for tourism, visiting family/friends, leisure, or short courses (< 3 months). Paid work, business, long-term study, or settlement prohibited.

   • Must demonstrate strong ties to India (employment, family, property) and clear intent to return; no serious immigration violations or criminal record.

   • Good health required; medical exams may be mandated for longer stays.

2. Comprehensive Document Checklist & Evidence

   • Completed and signed Visitor Visa application form (INZ 1017 or online equivalent).

   • Original passport and copies of biodata and previous visas.

   • Two recent passport-size photos (35×45 mm, white background, < 6 months old).

   • Detailed cover letter: purpose, dates, itinerary, funding, return assurance, expense sponsor.

   • Confirmed round-trip flight bookings and accommodation proof (hotel or host invitation with ID).

   • Proof of funds: 6-month bank statements, salary slips, sponsor letter; guideline: NZD 1,000/month (NZD 400 prepaid accommodation).

   • Police clearance and/or medical certificate if required (particularly for stays > 6 months).

   • Employment proof (leave letter, contract), business registration/tax returns for self-employed, student enrollment, or pension documents.

   • Additional documents for minors: birth certificate, parents’ passports, notarized consent.

3. Permitted vs. Prohibited Activities

   • Allowed: leisure tourism, visiting family/friends, short non-award study (< 3 months), cultural/leisure activities.

   • Prohibited: paid work, business or profit activities, courses > 3 months, medical migration, religious residency, overstaying or settling.

4. Recent Policy & Process Updates (2025)

   • All applications must be digitally submitted with clear formatting.

   • Walk-in document submission permitted at Visa Application Centers no prior online appointment needed for most tourists.

   • Biometric collection generally waived for short-term visas.

   • Enhanced scrutiny on financial, accommodation, and return-intent evidence apply at least 6 weeks before travel.

   • Processing typically takes 2–6 weeks; timelines vary.

5. Application Submission Workflow

   • Complete and upload application and documents via the Immigration NZ portal or approved centers.

   • Prepare originals and prescribed photocopies in checklist order.

   • Attend in-person submission for document checks and any required biometrics.

   • Track status online; respond promptly to additional requests.

   • Collect passport upon approval and verify visa details before finalizing travel.

6. Role & Value of Professional Visa Service Providers (JKVTravel.com)

   • Pre-screen eligibility, advise on the appropriate visa stream, and provide a tailored document checklist.

   • Review, format, and translate documents to meet current Immigration NZ standards.

   • Manage digital submissions, appointment coordination, and ongoing status monitoring.

   • Proactively handle additional document requests, reapplication guidance, and policy updates minimizing errors, refusals, and client stress.

   • Disclaimer: All visa decisions rest solely with New Zealand authorities; expert support enhances application quality and approval odds but cannot guarantee 100% success or expedite official processing.