Visa system

At a glance

New Zealand's visa system is governed by Immigration Instructions issued by the Minister of Immigration. These instructions establish the categories of visa, the criteria for granting them, and the framework for decision-making. The Minister may also issue special directions to immigration officers in relation to specific persons, visas, or documents where the Act or regulations permit, with absolute discretion. [E2.20] [A3]

Definition

The visa system is the collection of legislative and administrative rules that regulate who may travel to, enter and remain in New Zealand. It is not defined in a single place but is constituted by the Operational Manual, which includes the Immigration Act 2009, regulations, and policy instructions. [A3]

Under A3.1, a visa (other than a transit visa) authorises the holder to travel to or stay in New Zealand (or both). [A3.1] A visa may be granted inside or outside New Zealand, or in an immigration control area. [A3.1]

• A visa granted outside New Zealand indicates that:
  • the holder may travel to New Zealand in line with the visa's conditions and apply for entry permission; [A3.1]
  • if entry permission is granted, the holder may stay in line with the visa's conditions; and [A3.1]
  • at the time the visa is granted, Immigration New Zealand has no reason to believe entry permission will be refused, provided the holder complies with the visa's conditions. [A3.1]
• A visa granted inside New Zealand indicates that:
  • the holder may stay in New Zealand in accordance with the visa's conditions; and [A3.1]
  • if granted travel conditions, the holder may re-enter New Zealand in line with those conditions and apply for entry permission. [A3.1]
• A visa granted in an immigration control area indicates that:
  • if granted entry permission, the holder may stay in New Zealand in accordance with the visa's conditions; and [A3.1]
  • if granted travel conditions, the holder may re-enter New Zealand in line with those conditions and apply for entry permission. [A3.1]

A visa is granted by being entered and retained in the records of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. [A3.1] It may (but need not) be evidenced by an endorsement in a passport or a certificate of identity. [A3.1]

Types of temporary entry class visas

Temporary entry class visas include: [E1.1]

• temporary visas, consisting of:
  • visitor visas (see V2);
  • work visas (see W2);
  • student visas (see U6);
  • special temporary visas for diplomatic, consular and official staff (see H2);
  • military visas (see M2);
• limited visas (see L2); and
• interim visas (onshore only).

Entry permission

Entry permission is the authority allowing a non-New Zealand citizen to enter New Zealand. A person granted entry permission may enter New Zealand. [Y3.1]

The grant of entry permission has no effect unless the person also holds a visa. Therefore, a person arriving in New Zealand to whom a visa waiver applies must apply for both a visa and entry permission on arrival, unless they are deemed to hold a visa and entry permission (see E2.95.5). [A3.5][Y3.1]

The granting of a visa does not of itself entitle the holder to be granted entry permission, unless the visa is a permanent resident visa or a resident visa granted in New Zealand (these are situations where Y3.10(a) applies). [A3.5][Y3.1]

If entry permission is refused:

• any visa the person holds is cancelled; and
• if the person has arrived in New Zealand, the person is liable for turnaround. [A3.5]

Entry permission is granted by being entered and retained in the records of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, except for those persons deemed to hold a visa and entry permission. [Y3.1] Entry permission may (but need not) be evidenced by an endorsement in a passport or a certificate of identity. [Y3.1]

Travel requirement for non-citizens

E2.5 establishes the fundamental rule for who may travel to New Zealand:

• A person who is not a New Zealand citizen may travel to New Zealand only if the person holds a visa (and the travel is consistent with the visa's conditions) or is a person to whom a visa waiver applies and holds a valid Electronic Travel Authority (ETA). [E2.5]
• To enter and be in New Zealand, the person must hold a visa and have been granted entry permission. [E2.5]
• Lodging a visa application does not make the person's presence lawful, grant a right to remain, give a right to apply for another visa, or prevent deportation. [E2.5]

These provisions apply regardless of whether the person is offshore or onshore.

Trade commitments

One of the objectives of New Zealand's temporary entry instructions is to contribute to building strong international links. Part of this includes supporting New Zealand's position in a global trade environment, and ensuring that New Zealand's trade commitments with respect to immigration are being met. [E9]

Immigration plays an important role in ensuring New Zealand's trade commitments are met through immigration instructions providing for the mobility (temporary entry) of bona fide business people into New Zealand. [E9]

New Zealand has committed itself to a range of undertakings through different agreements, including the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS), the New Zealand and Singapore Closer Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), the New Zealand and Thailand Closer Economic Partnership, the Trans-Pacific Strategic Economic Partnership, Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), the New Zealand and China Free Trade Agreement, the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (AANZFTA), the Agreement Between New Zealand and the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu on Economic Cooperation (ANZTEC), and the Korea-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (KNZFTA). [E9]

Specific provisions throughout immigration instructions enable New Zealand to meet the commitments made in these trade agreements. These provisions include: seconded business people (A4.65.1), Group Transit Visa for Chinese nationals (N4), business visitors (V3.5), APEC Business Travel Cardholders (V3.105), specific purpose or event work visas (WS2.1.1(a), (b), (c), (h) and (k)), Thai chefs (WI11), China Special Work Instructions (WI12), China Skilled Workers Instructions (WI13), Philippines Special Work Instructions (WI14), Vietnam Special Work Instructions (WI15), Indonesia Special Work Instructions (WI17), Primary Sector Trainees (WI18), and Korea Special Work Instructions (WI19). [E9]

Cultural commitments

One of the objectives of New Zealand's temporary entry instructions is to contribute to building strong international links. Part of this includes reflecting New Zealand's obligations under the UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions (with effect 5 January 2008). [E10]

Under this convention, New Zealand has an obligation to "facilitate cultural exchanges with developing countries by granting, through the appropriate institutional and legal frameworks, preferential treatment to artists and other cultural professionals and practitioners as well as cultural goods and services from developing countries". [E10]

To give effect to this facilitation, when considering applications for temporary entry from artists and other cultural professionals and practitioners, immigration officers should have regard to New Zealand's obligation under the convention and should: [E10]

• consider expediting applications on a case-by-case basis; and/or
• take into consideration, as part of the standard decision-making process, any supporting information submitted by the Ministry for Culture and Heritage on the applicant's behalf (for example, if the applicant is part of a formal exchange programme organised by the New Zealand Government). [E10]

These measures will not influence INZ's ability to determine the intentions of an applicant, or override any applicable character, health, or any other requirements in immigration instructions. Any priority given to the processing of an application will occur at the discretion of the responsible immigration officer. [E10]

Several provisions throughout immigration instructions enable artists and other cultural professionals and practitioners to be considered for entry to New Zealand. These include, but are not limited to, business visitors (V3.5), conference delegates (V3.65), and Specific Purpose or Event visas (WS2). [E10]

Work visa objective

The objective of work visa instructions is to contribute to developing New Zealand's human capability base. [W1] Work visa instructions seek to achieve this by:

1. facilitating the access of New Zealand employers and New Zealand industry to global skills and knowledge; while [W1]
2. complementing the Government's education, training, employment and economic development policies; and [W1]
3. ensuring that the employment in New Zealand of non-New Zealand citizens and residence class visa holders does not undermine the wages and conditions of New Zealand workers. [W1]

Who does not need a work visa

Certain individuals do not need to apply for a work visa to work in New Zealand. [W2.1] These are:

• New Zealand citizens; [W2.1]
• holders of residence class visas; [W2.1]
• holders of any other type of temporary entry class visa whose conditions authorise the holder to undertake employment in New Zealand or within the exclusive economic zone of New Zealand. [W2.1]

This exemption reflects the principle that a residence class visa confers the right to work (see [RA1.1]), and that a temporary entry class visa with work conditions already permits employment without requiring a separate work visa. [W2.1] Effective 29/11/2010.

Application in decisions

All visa applications must be assessed against the applicable Immigration Instructions in force at the time the application was made. Decision-makers must apply the criteria set out in the instructions for the relevant visa category. Where instructions are silent, general administrative law principles and fairness requirements apply. [A3]

No person is entitled to a visa as of right unless the Immigration Act 2009 expressly provides otherwise (see E2.35 for the circumstances where a temporary entry class visa must be granted). In determining a visa application, the Minister or, subject to any special direction, an immigration officer has discretion to: [E3.1]

• grant or refuse to grant a visa; [E3.1]
• regardless of the class and type of visa that was applied for, grant a visa of any class and type; and [E3.1]
• impose conditions on the visa granted, or vary or waive conditions that would otherwise apply to it. [E3.1]

Changing a temporary visa (E3.30)

A temporary visa holder who is in New Zealand may apply for a visa of another type at any time before the current visa expires. [E3.30] The application must be made in the manner prescribed for the class or type of visa sought (see E4.50.1). [E3.30]

In determining such an application, the same discretion described above applies: the Minister or immigration officer may grant or refuse, may grant a visa of any class and type regardless of what was applied for, and may impose, vary or waive conditions. [E3.30] This is subject to any provision in the Immigration Act 2009 that expressly provides otherwise. [E3.30]

Further temporary visas (E3.35)

A temporary visa holder in New Zealand may apply for a further visa at any time before the current visa expires. The application must be made in the manner prescribed for the class or type of visa sought (see E4.50.1). [E3.35]

Where an applicant has made a claim of workplace exploitation against themselves, as defined in section 351 of the Immigration Act 2009 (see D7.45), or has had such a claim accepted as genuine by Immigration New Zealand, then in determining whether they are eligible for a further visa, immigration officers may disregard:

• any previous periods when the applicant had been working in breach of the conditions of their current or previous visa/s, and/or
• any previous periods of unlawfulness in the applicant's immigration history during which they were employed and they have provided evidence of workplace exploitation in respect of that employer. [E3.35]

Temporary entry during residence processing

Applicants for residence class visas who hold current temporary entry class visas must ensure their temporary visas remain current while the residence application is processed. [S3.25] Immigration officers have the power to grant further temporary entry class visas to the principal applicant and any dependants included in the residence application for the time needed to complete processing. [S3.25] This power operates alongside the general discretion to grant further temporary visas under E3.35 and ensures that residence applicants do not become unlawful while their residence application is pending. [S3.25]

If the temporary entry class visa of the principal applicant or any dependant has expired, the immigration officer may consider granting a visa under section 61 of the Immigration Act 2009 (see Special Directions). [S3.25]

This section does not override the requirement that applicants must maintain lawful status; rather, it provides a mechanism for INZ to facilitate ongoing lawful status during the residence assessment period.

Authority to impose, vary or waive conditions on temporary entry class visas

The power to impose, vary or waive conditions on temporary entry class visas is set out in E3.25. On granting a temporary entry class visa, the Minister or an immigration officer may impose conditions in addition to those specified in temporary entry instructions, and may vary or waive conditions that would otherwise apply to that class or type of visa. [E3.25] After a visa is granted, the Minister or an immigration officer may impose further conditions, and may vary or cancel conditions that applied at the time of grant or that would otherwise apply. [E3.25] These steps may also be taken by agreement with the visa holder. [E3.25]

The visa holder must be notified in writing of any conditions imposed, varied, waived or cancelled under those powers. Notice must be given to the holder personally or sent to the contact address; if the contact address is a physical address, notice must be sent by registered post to that address, and if it is an electronic address, by electronic means. [E3.25]

Conditions imposed, varied, waived or cancelled take effect from the date the visa is granted (if done at the time of grant) or from a date specified in the notice, which must not be earlier than the date of notification. [E3.25] Immigration officers should refer to E3.26 for the procedure for varying conditions of temporary entry class visas.

Varying conditions of temporary entry class visas (E3.26)

The procedure for holders of temporary entry class visas to apply for a variation of conditions (or a Job Change for Accredited Employer Work Visa holders) is set out in E3.26. [E3.26]

When a variation is needed

A holder must apply for a variation of conditions, or a Job Change if they hold an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), if they: [E3.26]

• wish to work and do not already have a visa allowing work;
• hold a work or visitor visa and want to study for more than 3 months (unless U2.5 applies);
• hold a condition-limited work visa and want to change employer, occupation, and/or employment location;
• hold a work visa as a partner of an AEWV or Essential Skills work visa holder with limiting conditions and want those conditions removed.

General requirements

To grant a variation of conditions for the first three scenarios above, the immigration officer must be satisfied that: [E3.26]

• the appropriate fee is paid;
• a valid passport (or certified copy) is provided (if not already held);
• supporting documents for the requested variation are supplied (e.g. an offer of employment meeting work visa requirements, or an offer of place and evidence of tuition fee payment for study); and
• the varied conditions still meet the objectives of the instructions under which the visa was originally granted.

A variation to allow work for a specific employer will only be granted if that employer meets the relevant employer requirements (W2.10.5, W2.10.15, W2.10.20), except where the Job Change business sale/restructure provision applies (E3.26.1.21). [E3.26]

Variations for specific work visa types

Essential Skills work visa holders may change employer, occupation, or location. A labour market test normally applies unless the new occupation is on an Essential Skills in Demand list or the Green List, or the applicant is paid at least twice the median wage ($70.00 based on June 2025 data). The applicant must be suitably qualified for the new occupation and provide a job offer. [E3.26]

Specific Purpose or Event visa holders approved as players or professional sports coaches may be granted a variation to undertake additional employment if the existing terms continue to be met and the secondary employment is either offered by the sports club/company solely for that individual, or there are no suitable NZ citizens/residents available. [E3.26]

Talent (Accredited Employers) work visa holders may change employers to another accredited employer, or to a non-accredited employer if employment ceased due to reasons beyond their control. The base salary must be no less than required at the time of the original application, and the new employer must meet employer requirements. [E3.26]

South Island Contribution work visa holders may, once only, change industry (same region) or region (same industry) if employment is no longer available for reasons beyond their control and they meet all other South Island Contribution requirements. [E3.26]

Job Change for AEWV holders (E3.26.1.20)

Accredited Employer Work Visa holders must apply for a Job Change to vary employer, occupation, or location. The new employer must hold AEWV accreditation, the AEWV holder must have a valid job token, and the employment must meet standard AEWV requirements (WA4.10.1) including the remuneration threshold at the time of the Job Change application. Occupation changes require suitable qualifications and experience, and for Seasonal Visa job tokens the applicant must meet the minimum skills threshold (WA4.10.6). An AEWV holder in a role allowing a 5-year maximum continuous stay cannot move to a 3-year-maximum role unless specific transitional conditions are met. The English language requirement (WA4.12) does not apply to Job Change applications. [E3.26]

Job Change after a business sale or restructure (E3.26.1.21)

A Job Change to a new employer may be granted without a new Job Check if the move is a direct result of a business sale or restructure, the new employer has or has applied for accreditation, the existing employee is transferred to the new entity, the pay is at least the same, and the role and location remain unchanged. An immigration officer may postpone the decision if there is information that the employer might not meet accreditation requirements; if accreditation is later declined or revoked, the Job Change must be declined. [E3.26]

Partners of AEWV and Essential Skills work visa holders

Partners holding work visas under WF3.1.5 can apply to remove conditions that restrict them to accredited employers and median-wage roles. The variation may be granted to allow any employment with any employer anywhere, provided the supporting partner earns at least $28.00 per hour (80% of the median wage). [E3.26]

Visitor visa variations

Visitor visa holders may be granted variations to: [E3.26]

• work part-time as a guardian of a student (between 9:30am and 2:30pm Monday to Friday);
• undertake seasonal work in horticulture or viticulture for up to 6 weeks in regions with identified shortages, once per entry;
• work up to 25 hours per week if aged 18+ and included as a dependent child in a 2021 Resident Visa application;
• work up to 20 hours per week (and full-time during summer holiday period, 1 Dec–31 Jan) if holding a Child of a New Zealander or Child of a Worker Visitor Visa, or a general visitor visa meeting specific age and residence-application criteria.

Student visa variations

Student visa holders may be granted a variation to: [E3.26]

• work in line with student work instructions (U13);
• increase work hours from 20 to 25 per week via the online form;
• change to a programme of study at the same or higher level at the same education provider (U3.40).

Variations to enrol in a lower-level programme or to change education providers are not permitted. [E3.26]

SMC interim visa variations

Holders of Skilled Migrant Category interim visas may vary conditions as follows: [E3.26]

• Those with employer-specific work conditions can change employer, occupation, or location if they meet E3.26.1.20 requirements and the employment is paid at or above the median wage ($35.00 based on June 2025 data).
• Those with student conditions may be allowed to work up to 20 hours per week and full-time in specified vacation periods if they meet U13 requirements, are aged 16+, and (if 16–17) have parents' and education provider's consent.
• Those with visitor conditions who are dependent children (aged 18+) included in an SMC residence application may be granted open study conditions and/or work up to 25 hours per week plus full-time in vacation periods.

Visa currency and conditions

E3.10 sets the rules for when temporary entry class visas take effect, how long they last, and when they expire. [E3.10]

Passport validity requirements

When granting a temporary entry class visa with travel conditions, the applicant's passport must be current for at least 3 months beyond the visa expiry date, or 1 month if the issuing government has consular representation in New Zealand. [E3.10] However, if the applicant is approved a work visa of 24 months or longer, they may be granted the full visa duration regardless of passport expiry, provided they are informed that the visa must be transferred to a new passport for travel. [E3.10]

Visa start and expiry dates

The visa entry must specify a start date (which may be the grant date, a future date, or a past date), travel conditions (including whether travel is allowed, period for travel, and number of journeys), the expiry date or event, any other conditions, and for persons granted entry permission, the date(s) of entry permission. [E3.10]

If the holder is in New Zealand, the visa expires on the earliest of: the day after the specified expiry date; the day after an event specified as triggering expiry; the day after the last day of the permitted stay period; or three months after an epidemic management notice expires (if the visa was deemed extended by that notice and not cancelled earlier). [E3.10] If the holder is outside New Zealand, the visa expires on the earlier of the day they left New Zealand (if the visa does not allow further travel) or the day after the last day allowed for travel. [E3.10]

Maximum validity periods

Unless an exception is made under immigration instructions (for example, the procedure for granting a longer temporary entry class visa) or other instructions state otherwise, individual visas must not be granted for longer than: 12 months for visitor visas; 5 years for work visas; 4 years for student visas; 6 months for interim visas. [E3.10] Diplomatic, consular, official and military visas have no maximum length of stay. [E3.10] These maximums apply per visa, so further visas may be granted if the relevant instructions are met. [E3.10]

Under E7.25, a temporary entry class visa may be granted for a period longer than stipulated in immigration instructions if an exception to instructions is made by an immigration officer with Schedule 1-3 delegations. [E7.25] Posts without such officers should request approval from an appropriately delegated officer at another office. [E7.25]

Pregnant applicants

Applicants who are pregnant, intend to stay more than 6 months, have TB risk factors, and otherwise meet requirements may only be granted a visa up to 3 months before their expected delivery date, unless they have previously provided a chest X-ray certificate meeting certain criteria under the health instructions. [E3.10] Those granted a visa under this restriction may apply for a further visa for the remainder of their stay by providing a fresh chest X-ray certificate and other documentation. [E3.10] If the chest X-ray shows they do not meet the acceptable standard of health, a further visa may be refused unless a medical waiver is available. [E3.10]

Further travel conditions

A holder of a temporary entry class visa who intends to travel out of New Zealand and return on the same visa conditions must hold valid travel conditions to enable their return. [E3.21] If further travel conditions are required, an applicant in New Zealand must complete the form Application for the Variation of Conditions or a Variation of Travel Conditions (INZ 1020) and pay the appropriate fee. [E3.21] Unless stated otherwise in specific instructions, when an immigration officer approves an application for a visa with further stay conditions, the officer must assess whether travel conditions should be granted. [E3.21]

Residence class visa — currency and entitlements

A resident visa entitles the holder to:

• travel to New Zealand in accordance with the conditions of the visa relating to travel (if any); and
• apply for entry permission (whether before or after travelling to New Zealand). [RA1.1]

If the holder of a resident visa is granted entry permission, they are entitled, in accordance with the conditions of the visa (if any), to:

• stay in New Zealand indefinitely; and
• work in New Zealand or in the exclusive economic zone of New Zealand; and
• study in New Zealand. [RA1.1]

Note: The travel conditions to be granted with a resident visa are set out in R5.66; after a resident visa is granted, travel conditions may be varied under RV3.

Conditions on resident visas

An immigration officer may impose conditions under sections 49 or 55 of the Immigration Act 2009 on a resident visa as specified in the residence instructions at the time the application for the visa was made. [RA8] Regardless of whether any conditions are imposed under those sections, under section 50 the Minister or an appropriately delegated immigration officer may:

• impose conditions in addition to those specified in the applicable residence instructions; [RA8]
• vary or waive conditions that would otherwise apply to a visa of that type; [RA8]
• impose, by special direction or by agreement of the visa holder, further conditions following the grant of a resident visa; [RA8]
• vary or cancel, by special direction or by agreement of the visa holder, any conditions that would otherwise apply. [RA8]

These broad powers allow conditions to be tailored to individual cases and are the statutory foundation for conditions such as the travel conditions detailed in R5.66. [RA8]

Permanent resident visa

The holder of a permanent resident visa is entitled to:

1. travel to New Zealand at any time; and
2. be granted entry permission; and
3. stay in New Zealand indefinitely; and
4. work in New Zealand or in the exclusive economic zone of New Zealand; and
5. study in New Zealand. [RA1.5]

Unlike a resident visa, a permanent resident visa does not expire and carries no travel conditions; the holder may travel to and return to New Zealand at any time without the need for further entry permission approvals. [RA1.5]

Prostitution Reform Act 2003 restrictions

Residence class visas

No residence class visa may be granted in contravention of the Prostitution Reform Act 2003. [R5.18] That Act provides that:

1. No visa may be granted to a person on the basis that they:
   • have provided, or intend to provide, commercial sexual services; [R5.18]
   • have provided, or intend to act as an operator of a business of prostitution; [R5.18]
   • have invested, or intend to invest, in a business of prostitution. [R5.18]
2. If the holder of a resident visa is subject to any conditions under section 49(1) of the Immigration Act 2009, the condition is considered not to be met (for the purposes of the holder becoming liable for deportation) if the visa holder acts as an operator of, or invests in, a New Zealand business of prostitution. [R5.18]

Temporary entry class visas

No temporary entry visa or entry permission may be granted in contravention of the Prostitution Reform Act 2003. [E7.40] That Act provides that:

• no visa may be granted to a person on the basis that the person has provided, or intends to provide, commercial sexual services; or has acted, or intends to act as an operator of a business of prostitution; or has invested, or intends to invest, in a business of prostitution; [E7.40]
• it is a condition of every temporary entry class visa granted under the Immigration Act 2009 that the holder of the visa may not, while in New Zealand, provide commercial sexual services; act as an operator of a New Zealand business of prostitution; or invest in a New Zealand business of prostitution; and [E7.40]
• a temporary entry class visa holder may become liable for deportation if the holder does any of the things listed above. [E7.40]

E7.40 applies to all visas and permits held and all requirements and conditions imposed under the Immigration Act 1987 or the Immigration Act 2009, whether granted or imposed before or after the commencement of the 2009 Act. [E7.40]

Transfer of temporary visas

E3.11 provides for the transfer of a temporary visa to a new passport or certificate of identity when the original visa was granted for a shorter period due to passport expiry, and for the endorsement of a temporary visa in a passport or certificate of identity more generally. [E3.11]

Transfer of balance after passport expiry

Where a temporary visa is granted for a shorter currency because the applicant's passport is due to expire, the applicant must be informed in writing of the date the visa would have expired had the passport remained valid. [E3.11] The same applies to a dependent child whose parent's passport is due to expire, and to a partner whose partner's passport is due to expire. [E3.11]

Once a new passport has been obtained, the visa holder (and any affected partner or dependent child) should apply to have the visa transferred to the new passport and varied so the expiry date matches the original intended currency, unless the visa can be transferred without varying the expiry date (see E3.10(b)). [E3.11]

When making the application, the applicant must supply:

• a completed approved online or paper form for an Application for Transfer or Confirmation of a Visa, including a copy of the INZ letter confirming the visa balance (if available); [E3.11]
• their current passport or certificate of identity (or a certified copy if using a paper form, or a scanned copy if applying online); [E3.11]
• the expired passport or certificate of identity (or a certified copy if using a paper form, or a scanned copy if applying online), if available; and [E3.11]
• the appropriate fee (if any). [E3.11]

Immigration New Zealand may require the applicant to provide the original passport or certificate of identity if needed for a label endorsement or to confirm the applicant's identity. [E3.11]

Endorsement of a temporary visa in a passport or certificate of identity

Applicants applying to have their temporary visa endorsed in their passport or certificate of identity (to confirm immigration status or to transfer a visa to a new passport) must use the approved online or paper form for an Application for Transfer or Confirmation of a Visa and pay the appropriate fee (if any). [E3.11]

If using a paper form, the applicant must provide their current original passport or certificate of identity and their previous passport or certificate of identity (or a certified copy), if available. [E3.11] If using an online form, the applicant must provide a scanned copy of the current passport or certificate of identity, a scanned copy of the previous passport or certificate of identity (if available), and must send the original current passport or certificate of identity to Immigration New Zealand after form submission. [E3.11] Where the previous document was lost, stolen or damaged, the applicant should provide evidence that it has been reported to the New Zealand Police (if lost or stolen) and/or their embassy or high commission, if available. [E3.11]

eVisa transfer

An applicant applying to transfer a visa to a new passport or certificate of identity may request an eVisa instead of a physical label. [E3.11] If an eVisa is granted, a visa approval letter is issued with the appropriate visa details. [E3.11]

The documentary requirements are the same as for endorsement, except that the applicant may provide a certified copy of the passport (paper form) or a scanned copy (online form) instead of the original. [E3.11] Immigration New Zealand may still require the original passport if needed to confirm the applicant's identity. [E3.11] No immigration fee or levy applies to replace a physical visa label with an eVisa or to transfer an eVisa from one passport or certificate of identity to another. [E3.11]

Confirming or transferring a residence class visa

Holders of a residence class visa whose passport has been lost, stolen, defaced, destroyed, or has expired, or who wish to have their visa confirmed in a new name, may apply for confirmation or transfer of the visa. [R7]

An application must be made on the approved form "Application for Transfer or Confirmation of a Visa" and must include:

• evidence of the applicant's identity (current passport or certificate of identity, or if unavailable, a full birth certificate or other identity document); [R7]
• the previous passport or certificate of identity containing the visa, if available; [R7]
• a police report if the passport was lost or stolen; [R7]
• the appropriate fee. [R7]

If an immigration officer is satisfied that the person is the holder of the residence class visa and that the visa remains valid, the officer will confirm the visa in the new name or transfer it to the new passport. The confirmation or transfer does not alter the visa's conditions, travel conditions, or expiry date; those remain as originally granted. [R7]

Australian citizens and Australian permanent residence visa holders (including resident return visa holders) who previously held a New Zealand residence class visa may apply for confirmation at a port of entry using the automated electronic system, provided they present their passport. [R7]

If the application for confirmation or transfer is refused (for example, because identity cannot be verified or the person no longer meets the requirements for the visa due to a supervening event), the holder must submit a fresh application for a residence class visa if they still wish to hold residence status. [R7]

A residence class visa originally granted under the Immigration Act 1987 is deemed to be a residence class visa granted under the Immigration Act 2009 for the purposes of confirmation or transfer. [R7]

When confirmation is required

People in New Zealand who hold, or are deemed to hold, a residence class visa may need to confirm their residence class visa in certain situations. [R7.1] These include:

• the applicant has lost their original passport and wishes to have a residence class visa label placed in the new one; [R7.1]
• the applicant is applying to the Department of Internal Affairs for New Zealand citizenship; [R7.1]
• the applicant never obtained a visa or permit on arrival; [R7.1]
• the applicant holds a permit granted under the Immigration Act 1964 or the Immigration Act 1987. [R7.1]

Applicants who arrived before 2 April 1974

Applicants who arrived lawfully before 2 April 1974 for the purpose of permanent residence and did not receive residence permits may need to satisfy an immigration officer that they are deemed to hold a resident visa under section 415 of the Immigration Act 2009. [R7.1] Their resident visa may be confirmed if they meet all of the following:

1. they were not issued a permit or entry authority under the Immigration Act 1964 or any earlier corresponding Act; [R7.1]
2. they have been in New Zealand continuously from 2 April 1974 until at least 31 October 1987, apart from any period or periods spent in: [R7.1]
   • the Cook Islands, Niue or Tokelau; or [R7.1]
   • Australia (if during any such period they were Commonwealth citizens or citizens of the Republic of Ireland, and were able to live in either New Zealand or Australia without restriction); [R7.1]
3. they were in New Zealand at midnight on 31 October 1987; and [R7.1]
4. they were not exempt under the Immigration Act 1987 from having to hold a residence permit. [R7.1]

When transfer is required

People who hold, or are deemed to hold, a residence class visa may need to transfer their visa if the passport containing their visa is nearing or past the expiry date and they require evidence of their immigration status and/or right to re-enter New Zealand in a new passport. [R7.5]

Procedure for confirmation or transfer

To apply for endorsement of residence status in a passport or certificate of identity (confirmation or transfer), the applicant must follow the steps in R7.10. [R7.10.1] For eVisa transfers and confirmation by letter, see the separate sub‑sections below.

Applying for endorsement in passport or certificate of identity (R7.10.1)

1. Applications must be made using the approved online or paper form Application for Transfer or Confirmation of a Visa, and include required evidence that they hold or are deemed to hold a residence class visa and the appropriate fee (if any). [R7.10.1]
2. If using a paper form, the applicant must also provide:
   • their current (original) passport or certificate of identity; and [R7.10.1]
   • their previous passport or certificate of identity (or a certified copy), if available. [R7.10.1]
3. If using an online form, the applicant must provide:
   • a scanned copy of their current passport or certificate of identity when submitting the form; [R7.10.1]
   • a scanned copy of their previous passport or certificate of identity, if available; and [R7.10.1]
   • their current (original) passport or certificate of identity, which must be sent to Immigration New Zealand after form submission. [R7.10.1]
4. Where their previous passport was lost, stolen or damaged, applicants should provide evidence that it has been reported to the New Zealand Police (if lost or stolen) and/or their embassy or high commission, if available. [R7.10.1]
5. If applicants cannot provide proof of lawful residence, immigration officers must establish whether there is a file for the applicant in INZ records, and if so, they must check the file. [R7.10.1]

eVisa transfer (R7.10.5)

Applicants applying to transfer their visa to a new passport or certificate of identity may request an eVisa instead of a physical label. An eVisa is a visa issued without a physical visa label in a passport or certificate of identity; if granted, a visa approval letter is issued with the appropriate visa details. [R7.10.5]

For eVisa transfer:

• The applicant must provide the same documents as for endorsement (R7.10.1), except they may provide:
  • a certified copy of their current passport or certificate of identity (instead of the original) if using a paper form; or
  • a scanned copy of their passport or certificate of identity (instead of the original) if using an online form. [R7.10.5]
• Immigration New Zealand may still require the original passport or certificate of identity if needed to confirm the applicant's identity. [R7.10.5]
• No immigration fee or levy applies to replace a physical visa label with an eVisa or when transferring an eVisa from one passport or certificate of identity to another. [R7.10.5]

Confirmation of residence status by letter (R7.10.10)

Applicants who wish to have confirmation of the date their residence was originally granted in the form of a letter may make a written request to the appropriate INZ receiving office. [R7.10.10] The letter confirming the date must:

• be on letterhead;
• give the applicant's full name, date of birth and the date residence was granted; and
• be legibly signed and dated by an immigration officer. [R7.10.10]

No immigration fee or levy applies for this confirmation by letter. [R7.10.10]

Evidence for confirmation or transfer

Acceptable evidence for a confirmation of residence class visa may include [R7.15]:

• any previous or expired passport or certificate of identity containing a residence class visa,
• the passport containing the original residence class visa, permit or other entry authority applying at the time of entry, or
• for the purpose of confirming residence status where confirmation is required under R7.1.1, documents showing continued residence since before 2 April 1974, which may include but are not limited to:
  • rates demands,
  • driver's licenses,
  • receipted power bills,
  • income tax returns,
  • school records,
  • employment references,
  • any other evidence requested by INZ.

Cancellation of visas on triggering events

A visa is automatically cancelled by operation of law when certain events occur. These triggering events are set out in E3.40 and apply regardless of the visa class or type. The cancellation is automatic — no separate decision or notice from Immigration New Zealand is required. [E3.40]

Triggering events

A visa is cancelled in the following circumstances: [E3.40]

1. Deportation — on the deportation of the holder from New Zealand. [E3.40]
2. Deportation order date — on the day after the first date on which a deportation order may be served on the person under section 175A of the Immigration Act 2009. [E3.40]
3. Refusal of entry permission — on the refusal of entry permission to the holder. This aligns with the rule under A3.5 that the grant of a visa does not itself entitle the holder to entry permission. [E3.40] [A3.5]
4. Revocation of entry permission — on entry permission granted to the holder being revoked. [E3.40]
5. Departure from immigration control area without clearance — if the holder arrived at an immigration control area, on the holder leaving that area without presenting to an immigration officer, or on the holder failing to comply with an immigration officer's instruction to remain in the area. [E3.40]
6. Failure to present after non-standard arrival — if the holder arrived at a place other than an immigration control area, on failing to present in the prescribed manner and within the prescribed time under section 103(1)(b) of the Immigration Act 2009. [E3.40]
7. Grant of a further visa — on the start date of a further visa granted to the holder. [E3.40]
8. Grant of New Zealand citizenship — on the grant of New Zealand citizenship to the holder. [E3.40]
9. Registration of citizenship by descent — on the registration of New Zealand citizenship by descent under section 7(2) of the Citizenship Act 1977 by the holder. [E3.40]
10. Evidentiary certificate confirming citizenship — on the issue of an evidentiary certificate under section 21 of the Citizenship Act 1977 that confirms the holder is a New Zealand citizen. [E3.40]

Important exception: residence class visa holders

Despite the rule that a further visa cancels the previous visa (trigger 7 above), the grant of a temporary entry class visa to the holder of a residence class visa does not cancel the residence class visa. This means a residence class visa holder who is granted a further temporary visa (for example, a work visa) retains their residence status. [E3.40]

The exception does not apply if the temporary entry class visa was granted under section 68 of the Immigration Act 2009, which deals with visas granted in error. [E3.40]

Deportation liability unaffected by new visa

If a person's visa is cancelled because the day has passed on which a deportation order could first be served (trigger 2 above), the subsequent grant of a new visa to that person does not cancel the person's liability for deportation. The liability survives the grant of the new visa. [E3.40]

Visa cancellation for administrative error

An immigration officer may cancel a visa that the officer believes on reasonable grounds was granted as a result of an administrative error if any of the following apply: [E3.45]

1. The visa was granted to a person in a designated place where entry permission may be granted under section 383 of the Immigration Act 2009, and the person is still in the designated place or has not left the arrival hall of the airport or port at which they arrived. [E3.45]
2. The visa was granted to a person in an immigration control area or an office of the Department in New Zealand, and the person is still in the control area or office. [E3.45]
3. Advice of the grant of the visa has not been sent or given to the person concerned, in any other case. [E3.45]

A visa is considered granted as a result of an administrative error if: [E3.45]

• it was granted to a New Zealand citizen (unless the person is a New Zealand citizen entering New Zealand in the circumstances described in section 13(4)(b) of the Immigration Act 2009); or [E3.45]
• it was granted to an excluded person (unless section 17 of the Immigration Act 2009 making an exception to the non-eligibility for a visa criteria applies) (see A5.40); or [E3.45]
• the person granting it intended to grant a visa of a type other than the one actually granted; or [E3.45]
• it was granted for a period exceeding the period specified in immigration instructions for visas of that type (see E3.10), unless the Minister or an immigration officer deliberately and properly granted it as an exception to the immigration instructions; or [E3.45]
• it was granted on the basis of the person holding a visa that was itself granted as a result of an administrative error; or [E3.45]
• it was granted in contravention of a special direction, immigration instructions (unless the Minister or an immigration officer deliberately and properly granted it as an exception), or an instruction of a kind referred to in section 378(7) of the Immigration Act 2009 that limits or affects the powers of the Minister to give all such instructions as the Minister thinks fit in the ordinary course of immigration portfolio administration. [E3.45]

Entry permission is granted as a result of an administrative error under analogous grounds (see E3.45(5)). [E3.45]

This cancellation is a corrective measure and does not of itself give rise to deportation liability; however, failure to cancel an erroneously granted visa may result in deportation liability under the relevant D2 instructions (see Liability for Deportation). [E3.45]

Effective 29 November 2010. [E3.45]

Grant of further visa where visa granted in error (E3.50)

If the Minister or an immigration officer determines that a visa was granted as a result of an administrative error but the visa was not cancelled in accordance with the Immigration Act 2009, they may, in their absolute discretion:

• offer the holder a visa of such class and type, and subject to such conditions, as they consider appropriate; and
• if the holder agrees, grant such a visa. [E3.50]

If the holder does not agree, they remain liable for deportation (see Liability for Deportation). [E3.50]

This provision allows the erroneous visa to be replaced by a proper visa, resolving the immigration status without deportation, but only with the holder's consent. It is used when cancellation under E3.45 is not available (for example, because the person has already left the relevant area or advice of the grant has been given). [E3.50]

Discretionary cancellation of temporary entry class or transit visas (E3.55)

Under E3.55, the Minister or an immigration officer may cancel:

• a temporary entry class visa at any time when its holder is outside New Zealand; [E3.55]
• a temporary entry class visa that has been extended based on the commencement of an epidemic management notice (section 78 of the Immigration Act 2009), at any time; [E3.55]
• a transit visa at any time. [E3.55]

If a visa is cancelled under this section and the visa holder is outside New Zealand, the Minister or immigration officer must notify the person in writing. [E3.55]

This power is separate from automatic cancellation on triggering events (E3.40) and cancellation for administrative error (E3.45). It provides a residual discretion to cancel temporary entry class visas or transit visas where the holder is offshore, or where an epidemic-related extension has been granted, without requiring any triggering event or administrative error. [E3.55]

Interpretation & edge cases

• The visa system distinguishes between temporary entry, residence, and transit visas, each with its own policy framework. [A3]
• Instructions may contain transitional provisions for applications lodged under previous policy regimes; these must be applied strictly as written.
• When a new visa category is introduced or an existing one amended, transitional instructions often determine which applicants are affected.
• The Operational Manual is updated periodically; decision-makers must use the version current at the date of application.
• Special directions are an exceptional mechanism; they do not form part of the regular instructions, and the Minister's absolute discretion is not reviewable. [E2.20]
• When a visa is granted for a shorter period because of passport expiry, the entitlement to the full intended currency is preserved through the transfer process, as long as the holder applies with the new passport and meets the documentary requirements. [E3.11]
• The eVisa transfer option is fee‑free and reduces the need for a physical label, but INZ retains discretion to call for the original passport. [E3.11]
• When a further visa is granted, the previous visa is cancelled by operation of law under E3.40(1)(vii). However, a residence class visa holder who is granted a temporary entry class visa retains their residence class visa unless the temporary visa was granted in error under section 68 of the Immigration Act 2009. This preserves the holder's residence status while allowing temporary travel or work privileges. [E3.40]
• Cancellation of a visa under the deportation-order trigger (E3.40(1)(ii)) does not extinguish deportation liability; even if a new visa is later granted, the liability survives. Advisers should not assume that a fresh visa resolves the deportation risk. [E3.40]
• Administrative error cancellation under E3.45 is only available where the officer believes on reasonable grounds that the error occurred, and must be exercised while the person is still physically in the designated place, control area, or before advice of the grant has been sent. Once the person has left those areas or advice has been given, cancellation cannot occur under E3.45; instead, the erroneous visa may need to be addressed through deportation liability processes. [E3.45]
• Under E3.55, a temporary entry class visa may be cancelled at any time while the holder is outside New Zealand, including where there has been no breach of conditions. The Minister or immigration officer must give written notice if the visa holder is outside New Zealand. This power also extends to transit visas and to temporary visas extended by epidemic management notices. [E3.55]
• The Prostitution Reform Act 2003 restricts the grant of both temporary and residence class visas where a person would be granted a visa on the basis of providing commercial sexual services, operating a business of prostitution, or investing in such a business. The Act also imposes conditions on visa holders and affects deportation liability. [R5.18][E7.40]
• Unlike the transfer of temporary visas under E3.11, the confirmation or transfer of a residence class visa does not extend the visa's validity or alter its conditions; it merely re-documents the same visa. If the identity or ongoing eligibility of the holder cannot be confirmed, refusal results and a fresh residence application is required. [R7]
• Name changes must be supported by evidence (e.g., marriage certificate, deed poll) and the visa will be confirmed in the new name without changing its substantive effect. [R7]
• Australian citizens and permanent residents who held a residence class visa can use the automated port system for confirmation, simplifying re-entry formalities. [R7]
• Confirmation may also be required where a person never obtained a visa or permit on arrival, or holds a permit under the 1964 or 1987 Acts. [R7.1]
• For pre‑2 April 1974 arrivals, the deemed residence visa under s 415 of the Immigration Act 2009 can be confirmed only if strict continuous residence and non-exemption conditions are met, including being in New Zealand at midnight on 31 October 1987. [R7.1]

Citations

• A3 — Visa system
• A3.1 — Definition and effect of a visa
• A3.5 — Meaning and effect of entry permission
• E1.1 — Types of temporary entry class visa
• E2.5 — Who needs a temporary entry class visa to travel to and be in New Zealand
• E2.10 — Who may apply for a temporary visa
• E2.15 — Who may not apply for a temporary visa to be in New Zealand
• E2.20 — Special directions
• E2.25 — Immigration officers to act in accordance with special direction
• E2.35 — Who must be granted a temporary entry class visa
• E2.50 — Restrictions on the grant of temporary entry class visas for students holding a New Zealand scholarship administered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Education New Zealand, and their dependants
• E2.60 — Restrictions on the grant of a visa to certain groups as designated by the United Nations Security Council
• E2.95 — Temporary entry class visas deemed to be held
• E2.100 — Ban on the grant of visas to leading members of the Syrian regime
• E2.105 — Ban on the grant of visas to individuals associated with the Ukraine crisis
• E2.110 — Ban on the grant of visas with work rights to DPRK nationals
• E2.115 — Ban on the grant of visas to Russian individuals expelled from certain countries for activities incompatible with their diplomatic status
• E2.120 — Ban on the grant of visas to certain Saudi Arabian individuals
• E2.140 — Ban on the grant of visas to certain individuals undermining stability and security in the West Bank
• E3.1 — Grant of visa generally a matter of discretion
• E3.5 — Grant of visitor visa to travel to and be in New Zealand may be subject to payment of bond
• E3.10 — Currency of visas
• E3.11 — Transfer of temporary visas
• E3.15 — Conditions to which holders of temporary entry class visas are subject
• E3.20 — Conditions of student visa, limited visa and interim visa for study purposes
• E3.21 — Further travel conditions
• E3.25 — Conditions of temporary entry class visas may be imposed, varied or waived
• E3.26 — Varying the conditions of temporary entry class visas
• E3.30 — Changing a temporary visa
• E3.35 — Further temporary visas
• E3.40 — Cancellation of visas on triggering event
• E3.45 — Cancellation of visa for administrative error
• E3.50 — Grant of further visa where visa granted in error
• E3.55 — Cancellation of temporary entry class or transit visas
• E5 — Requirement to be a 'bona fide applicant' intending a temporary stay in New Zealand
• E7.25 — Procedure for granting a temporary entry class visa for a period longer than provided for in immigration instructions
• E7.40 — Effect of provisions of the Prostitution Reform Act 2003
• E9 — Trade commitments
• E10 — International obligations
• H2 — Diplomatic, Consular, and Official staff, and accompanying dependants
• R5.18 — Effect of provisions of the Prostitution Reform Act 2003
• R7 — Confirming or transferring a residence class visa
• R7.1 — When confirmation is required
• R7.5 — When transfer is required
• R7.10.1 — Endorsement of residence status in passport or certificate of identity
• R7.10.5 — eVisa transfer
• R7.10.10 — Confirmation of residence status by letter
• R7.15 — Evidence
• RA1.1 — Currency and nature of a resident visa
• RA1.5 — Currency and nature of a permanent resident visa
• RA8 — Resident visas with conditions
• S3.25 — Temporary entry class visas
• W1 — Objective
• W2.1 — Who does not need to apply for a work visa
• Y3.1 — Definition and meaning of entry permission