New Zealand Visitor Visa For Indian Nationals

New Zealand, known for its stunning natural landscapes, is one of the world's most unspoiled countries. Coupled with a modern lifestyle and advanced technology, it stands out as a unique travel destination. Annually, it attracts around 3 million tourists, highlighting its appeal. To explore the myriad attractions of New Zealand, Indian travelers need to secure a tourist visa.

Top Tourist Spots in New Zealand

New Zealand offers a plethora of activities for travelers, from whale watching and skydiving to sailing and diving. Despite its modest size, it is renowned as a premier destination for adventure sports. Below are some of the must-visit places in New Zealand:

• Fiordland National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site perfect for exploring New Zealand's wild beauty
• Queenstown: Known globally for adventure sports, it is a magnet for thrill-seekers
• Rotorua: Offers a glimpse into Maori culture, featuring hot springs, geysers, and mud pools
• Hawke's Bay: A paradise for wine lovers, famous for its wine tours
• Rakiura: Ideal for birdwatchers, this island is largely covered by a national park

Besides these, New Zealand boasts numerous attractions catering to diverse interests

Tourist Visa Fees For New Zealand

The cost of a New Zealand tourist visa varies based on the applicant's country of origin. Travelers are categorized into three bands:

• Band A: Applicants within New Zealand
• Band B: Applicants from the Pacific region
• Band C: Applicants from other countries

Below is a table summarizing the fees:

Visa Type	Band A (NZ$)	Band B (NZ$)	Band C (NZ$)	Immigration Charge (NZ$)
Hard Copy Application	170	135	170	14
Online Application	151	116	151	14
Temporary Retirement Visa (Visitors)	3,340	3,340	3,340	14
Approved Destination Status Group Visa - China (Offshore)	NA	NA	50 per person	10
Group Visa (Others)	85	85	85 per person	10

Visa fees are waived for nationals of over 30 countries due to diplomatic agreements. However, Indian nationals must pay the visa fees as specified.

Requirements for Obtaining a New Zealand Tourist Visa

To qualify for a New Zealand tourist visa, applicants must meet several criteria:

• Possess valid travel documents, with passports valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended stay.
• Demonstrate sufficient funds to cover travel and living expenses.
• Have no criminal record.
• Prove genuine tourist intent with plans to leave New Zealand upon visa expiry.
• Hold a return ticket or show enough funds to purchase one.

Purposes of a New Zealand Tourist Visa

A New Zealand tourist visa can be used for:

• Visiting family or friends
• Participating in adventure activities or amateur sports
• Exploring the country as a tourist
• Studying for up to 3 months
• Getting married

Application Process for a New Zealand Visitor Visa

Indian travelers can apply for a New Zealand tourist visa either online or through a manual process.

Online Application

Submit your application through the official immigration website: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/

Offline Application

Download Form INZ 1017, fill it out, and submit it to the nearest New Zealand Visa Application Centre along with the required documents:

• Completed and signed application form
• Fee payment receipt
• Two recent passport-sized photographs
• Original passport
• Medical certificate
• Proof of financial stability
• Return air tickets

Checking Visa Application Status

Applicants can track their visa application status through the official immigration department website. Registration is required to access this service. Once registered, use your login credentials to monitor your application status.

FAQs on New Zealand Tourist Visa:

1. How long can I stay in New Zealand on a tourist visa?
   The maximum stay on a tourist visa is 9 months, depending on the visit's purpose
2. Can I work in New Zealand on this visa?
   No, working is not permitted on a tourist visa. A work visa is required for employment.
3. Do frequent visitors need a new visa each time?
   No, frequent visitors can apply for a multiple-entry visa, allowing multiple visits within a specified period.
4. Can I participate in a sports tournament on a tourist visa?
   Only if the tournament lasts less than 3 months. Longer participation requires a work visa.
5. I have a connecting flight from New Zealand. Should I have a tourist visa in order to catch it?
   If you are travelling from New Zealand on a connecting aircraft, you are not need to hold a tourist visa as long as your stay does not exceed 24 hours. Additionally, during this time you are not permitted to leave the airport. In such cases, a transit visa will be issued. A tourist or visiting visa is necessary if you plan to travel outside of the transit zone or stay in the nation for longer than 24 hours/li>
6. Is the New Zealand tourist visa available for Indians?
   The borders of New Zealand are now completely open to travellers from all around the world, including India. All visitors must, however, meet specific standards, be in good health, and submit the traveller declaration form
7. How much does New Zealand tourist visa cost for an Indian?
   New Zealand tourist visa of 90 days costs around Rs.14, 999 for an Indian.