All-Country New-Zealand • 7 SEP, 2023

New Zealand Tourist Visa for Indians: A Complete Guide

The New Zealand Tourist Visa, also known as the Visitor Visa, allows Indians to visit the country for tourist purposes.

Duration: 6 or 9 months
Cost: From NZD 211 (INR 10,272.54)
Processing Time: 90% processed within 33 weekdays
Permitted Activities: Holiday visits, visiting friends and family, job interviews, studying (up to 3 months)
Inclusions: Partner and dependent children can be included in the application
Restrictions: No work is allowed under this visa category

You can also read: New Zealand Student Visa from India: A Complete Walkthrough

Eligibility Criteria New Zealand Tourist Visa for Indians

To be eligible for a New Zealand tourist visa as an Indian applicant, you must meet the following criteria:

**Confirmed Visit:**Provide proof of a confirmed visit and pre-booked round-trip tickets, indicating the intention of tourism without seeking employment.
**Health Requirements:**Pass a medical test demonstrating good health and provide relevant documentary proof before travelling to New Zealand.
Age Limit: Ensure you meet the age limit requirements necessary for the application of a work permit.
Character Requirements: Have a clean character record, meaning no criminal convictions, deportations, bans from other countries, or any perceived threat to New Zealand’s security.
**Financial Sufficiency:**Possess or have access to sufficient funds to cover your stay and expenses in New Zealand. Submit bank statements or equivalent documents as proof of financial capability.

Document Requirements for New Zealand tourist visa

To apply for a New Zealand tourist visa, Indian applicants typically need the following documents:

**Original Passport:**Valid for at least 6 months beyond the travel date.
Coloured Photographs: Meeting specified photo requirements (Photo size - 35mm x 45 mm).
**Cover Letter:**Include all necessary details.
Confirmed Flight Tickets: Showing travel arrangements.
Income Tax Returns Proof: Demonstrating financial stability.
Medical Certificate: Confirming health status.
Proof of Accommodation: Such as hotel reservations.
**Proof of Purpose of Visit:**Invitation letters, exhibition/conference passes, etc.
Proof of Sufficient Funds and ties to home country: Bank statements or equivalent financial documents.
In addition, like other developed/western countries, an applicant is expected to showcase that their intention to visit New Zealand is solely for the purpose of tourism and that they will return to India/home thereafter. This can be supported by the following example documents:
- Proof of employment in India/country of residence (salary slips, appointment letter, etc.) or proof of self-employemnt/business registrations
- Proof of return (leave / employer NOC / leave letter from school or university)

Note: We would like to emphasise the critical importance of submitting truthful and genuine documents when applying for a visa. False or fraudulent documentation can lead to severe consequences, including future permanent disqualification or bans from entering a particular country.

The cost of a New Zealand tourist visa starts from NZD 211 (INR 10,272.54). Please note that fees can vary based on the type of visa, duration of stay, and specific circumstances of the applicant. It’s advisable to check the official website of the New Zealand High Commission or consulate for the most accurate and updated fee information.

Key Takeaways

The New Zealand Tourist Visa for Indians permits a stay of 6 or 9 months, costing NZD 211, with activities including holiday visits, family visits, job interviews, and studying (up to 3 months), but no work is allowed.
Indian applicants for a New Zealand tourist visa must show confirmed travel plans, good health via a medical test, adhere to age limits, maintain a clean character record, and demonstrate financial capability for their stay.
Indian applicants for a New Zealand tourist visa need documents like a valid passport, photographs, flight tickets, income tax proofs, medical certificate, accommodation confirmation, purpose of visit proof, and financial statements.
To apply for a New Zealand Visitor Visa, visit the official website, choose the appropriate visa category, fill the online form, upload the required documents, make the payment, submit the application, wait for approval, and proceed upon notification.
The New Zealand tourist visa processing time ranges from 2 to 6 weeks, and fees start at NZD 211 (INR 10,272.54), subject to variations based on visa type, stay duration, and individual circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can Indians apply for a New Zealand visa from a third country they are visiting/travelling/residing in?
Yes, Indians can apply for a New Zealand visa from a third country they are visiting, travelling to, or residing in. New Zealand visa applications are typically processed through the nearest New Zealand embassy, consulate, or visa application centre in the country where the applicant is located. It is essential to check the specific visa requirements and procedures for the country you are in because the application process may vary depending on the host country’s regulations and New Zealand’s visa policies at the time of your application. Sometimes, the NZ Embassy or consulate may have a specific rule not to entertain applications from certain nationalities, which may or may not include Indians. The best way to overcome this challenge is to directly email the specific embassy or consulate (via the email ID) on their website (for that specific location) and seek permission to apply/get an appointment
2. Can I apply for a New Zealand tourist visa online, or do I have to visit the consulate?

You can apply for a New Zealand tourist visa online through the official visa application portal. This user-friendly online process saves you a trip to the consulate and allows you to submit your documents and pay the fees electronically.

Pro tip: Remember, New Zealand is not a cheap destination and hence you should budget for the entire duration of your stay (hotels, food, activities, flights) – that’s the best way to get an idea of the financial threshold. This, along with your regular income (salary or business earnings), also showcases your intent to travel as a genuine tourist before returning home to India.
5. Are any specific health requirements or vaccinations needed for the New Zealand tourist visa application?
Entry into New Zealand does not usually require any specific vaccinations unless it is mandatory based on the on-going situation (for example, the Covid-19 outbreak). However, it’s recommended to ensure you’re up-to-date on routine vaccinations and be aware of any health advisories related to your travel.