Welcoming more than 3.8 million visitors a year from all over the world, including around 10,000 expatriates, New Zealand’s natural beauty and openness to the world make it an attractive destination. For certain types of visa, health insurance is compulsory for New Zealand. This will enable you to enjoy your stay with complete peace of mind.
Can I travel to New Zealand without a visa?
Visa requirements for New Zealand vary according to each traveler’s nationality. If you are planning to travel to New Zealand, check the entry requirements applicable to your country.
For tourist trips of less than 3 months, certain nationals of selected countries are exempt from visa requirements for travel to New Zealand. This means that you can travel to New Zealand without having to obtain a visa in advance if you hold a valid passport from one of the countries benefiting from this exemption.
However, check the entry conditions for other types of travel such as study stays, business trips or long-term trips. In these cases, you should probably obtain a visa before departure.
Whether you need a visa or not, international medical cover is essential, whether for administrative purposes or for your own safety.
How do I obtain a visa?
The complete list of existing visas for a trip to New Zealand can be consulted on the New Zealand Immigration website. If you’re not sure which visa to choose, the site can also help you find the one that’s right for you. To do so, you’ll need to enter a number of criteria on the “Explore visa options” page. You’ll then be asked to choose up to 3 options from those proposed by the site. Then you can compare them, and select the type of visa that best suits your profile. Check that you meet all the requirements for the visa you’ve chosen, and apply online.
Once you’ve applied, you’ll receive an e-mail containing a list of the documents required for your visa application, and explaining the rest of the process. If you are slow to receive this e-mail, check the “junk/spam” folder in your mailbox.
What documents do I need to apply for a visa to New Zealand?
In addition to your passport, certain documents are regularly required to obtain a visa for New Zealand:
– Proof of available funds. For most visas, you’ll need to prove that you’ll be able to support yourself at the start of your stay. The amount generally required is NZ$4,200, or about €2,500. You will probably be asked to provide proof of a monthly income of up to NZ$1,000 (€600) for the duration of your stay.
– A medical certificate less than 3 months old.
– Proof of health insurance. certificate of healthliability and repatriation insurance. In the event of an unforeseen incident during your stay, the authorities want to be sure that your expenses are covered by private insurance. Mondassur offers a range of international insurance packages to suit the length of your stay and your criteria.
– A return ticket. This ticket is proof that you won’t overstay your visa, and will be required on arrival. If you can’t book your return ticket yet, you’ll need to add the cost of purchasing the ticket to the funds available to justify it.
How much does a visa for New Zealand cost?
Visa prices vary according to type. A visitor visa, valid for 9 months, will cost you $211NZ (around €130). Long-term visas, such as work visas, generally cost $495NZ (around €300).
What are the formalities on arrival in New Zealand?
When you arrive in New Zealand, you’ll need to fill in a Passenger Arrival Card and hand it in to customs. Your entry into New Zealand can be recorded either by customs staff, or directly at automated kiosks. If you use the kiosks, your date of entry will be recorded but not stamped on your passport. In this case, we recommend that you keep your ticket stub as proof of entry. Your insurer may ask you for it later, to justify your medical expenses in this country.
What kind of visa do I need to work in New Zealand?
If you want to work in New Zealand, you’ll need a work visa. Here are some of the most commonly used work visas:
– Temporary Work Visa: This visa allows you to work in New Zealand for a specific period of time. There are different types of temporary work visa, depending on your situation, your country of origin and the length of your stay.
– Seasonal Worker Visa: if you wish to work in agriculture, hospitality or tourism in New Zealand for a short period, this visa may be a good option. It is available to nationals of certain countries and has a maximum duration of six months.
– Highly Skilled Worker Visa: if you have specific skills in a field in demand in New Zealand, you may be eligible for a Highly Skilled Worker Visa. This visa is for people who have a job offer in the country and who have particular skills or qualifications in their field.
– Self-Employed Visa: if you wish to establish your own business in New Zealand, you may be eligible for a Self-Employed Visa. This visa is for people who intend to set up a business and can demonstrate that they have the skills and resources to do so.
In any case, if you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, don’t forget to take out insurance! In just a few clicks, get a personalized medical insurance quote for your stay.
