INZ Updates Visitor Visa Duration Guidelines

Kia ora everyone,

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has recently provided important clarification regarding visitor visa durations. As your trusted immigration advisors at Surani Associates, we want to share this update and explain what it means for those planning to visit Aotearoa New Zealand.

Key Points of the Update:

1. Maximum Duration Guidelines: INZ has reminded its staff about Immigration Instruction V2.15, which outlines the maximum durations for multiple entry visitor visas.

2. Recommended Stay Duration: For lower-risk offshore general visitor visa applications, INZ now recommends a three-month stay duration as a starting point. This applies to applicants who haven't spent more than 9 months in New Zealand over the past 18 months.

3. Alignment with Visa Waiver Countries: The three-month recommendation aligns with the visa duration granted to visitors from most visa waiver countries.

4. Immigration Officer Discretion: Immigration officers have the flexibility to adjust these durations based on each applicant's individual circumstances.

5. Requesting Longer Stays: If you need a longer stay, it's crucial to clearly explain your reasons in your visa application. INZ will consider these requests during the assessment process.

What This Means for Visitors:

1. Standard Duration: If you're a low-risk applicant applying from overseas, you can generally expect a three-month stay to be considered.

2. Longer Stays: If you need more than three months, be sure to provide detailed reasons in your application. This could include things like extended family visits, longer holiday plans, or specific events you wish to attend.

3. Individual Assessment: Remember, each application is assessed on its own merits. Your personal circumstances, travel history, and the purpose of your visit will all be taken into account.

4. Be Prepared: When applying, provide as much relevant information as possible to support your requested stay duration.

At Surani Associates, we're here to help you navigate the visitor visa application process. If you're planning to visit New Zealand and have questions about visa durations or need assistance with your application, don't hesitate to reach out to us.

We can help you:

• Understand the new guidelines and how they apply to your situation

• Prepare a strong application that clearly explains your travel plans and duration requirements

• Ensure you provide all necessary documentation to support your requested stay

Remember, clear communication in your application is key to getting the visa duration you need. Let's work together to make your visit to New Zealand a smooth and enjoyable experience.