For many UAE residents, travelling to New Zealand is a dream come true. With stunning mountains to beautiful beaches, New Zealand is a fantastic place to visit. You must however apply for the right visa before packing your bags. Read on as this blog guides you on how you can apply for a visa to New Zealand from the UAE. Know about the documents you’ll need, the fee you need to pay and the time it takes to get a visa.
Do UAE Residents Need a Visa for New Zealand?
Yes, before travelling to New Zealand, UAE passport holders must apply for New Zealand visa from Dubai. A visa might also be needed for UAE residents who hold passports from other countries. While some nationalities are exempted from having to secure a visa, they must still get an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before travelling. Confirm whether you need an NZeTA or a visa on the official New Zealand Immigration website before applying.
Types of New Zealand Visas
For UAE residents visiting New Zealand, the most common visa is the Visitor Visa. With a visitor visa, you can visit New Zealand as a tourist or to visit family and friends or for short business trips.
You must apply for a suitable visa, such as a Student Visa or a Work Visa if you plan to study, work or stay for a longer time. There are separate requirements and fees for each type of visa.
Applying for a Visitor Visa
Many from the UAE travelling to New Zealand apply for the visitor visa that allows a holder to stay there for up to nine months within a period of eighteen months. While you can study for up to three months with this visa, you aren’t allowed to work with it.
How to Apply for a New Zealand Visa from UAE
There are two ways to apply for a visa to New Zealand–by paper or online. For most applicants, the online option is much faster and also more convenient. Here are the steps involved:
Create an Account
Create an account after visiting the official New Zealand Immigration website. Use your email address to register on the site.
Fill Out the Application Form
Choose the visa you want after logging into your account. Be careful when you fill up the online application form making sure you make no mistakes. There are questions on your health, travel plans, finances and character that you’ll have to answer honestly.
Gather Your Documents
Upload scanned copies of the documents needed. See to it that the scanned copies you submit are complete and completely clear. Take the help of visa agents offering international visa services if needed. You usually have to submit the following common documents:
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A passport that doesn’t expire in at least three months from the day you plan to leave New Zealand.
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A passport size photograph taken recently.
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Proof that you have enough funds to support your stay.
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Proof of further travel like a return ticket.
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Travel insurance.
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A cover letter with an explanation of why you are visiting.
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Accommodation details like an invitation letter if staying with family or friends or hotel bookings.
Sometimes you may also have to submit extra documents like police clearance or medical certificates depending on how long you’ll stay and your travel history.
Pay the Visa Fee
You must pay the visa fee with a credit or debit card after submitting your application. Always check the official site for the latest fee since it may change from time to time. The fee is around NZD 211, which is about AED 465 for most visitor visas. Depending on the visa centre and the exchange rate, the visa fee may vary.
Submit Biometrics (if Required)
Some of those applying may have to provide their biometric information. An email may be sent to you asking you to give your fingerprints and a photo after visiting a Visa Application Centre (VAC). You’ll find VACs in Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the UAE.
Wait for Processing
The New Zealand Immigration Office will review your application and documents after you submit them. You may be asked to appear in an interview or provide more information. Keep checking your email to see if you have received any updates.
Receive Your Visa
After a thorough scrutiny, the New Zealand visa authorities shall issue your visa only if everything’s in order. You’ll receive it on your email address. Take a printout and keep it handy when you’re in New Zealand.
Processing Time for a New Zealand Visa from UAE
While the processing times can vary, a Visitor Visa takes about 20 to 25 working days to process in general if you have applied online. You may receive it earlier also and during busy seasons, there’s a possibility of it taking longer. Apply at least a month in advance to stay prepared for any unforeseen delay.
Visa Fees and Extra Costs
You might have to pay extra charges, apart from the visa fee. For example, if you apply through a Visa Application Centre, you may have to pay a service fee. You may also have to pay a separate fee when submitting your biometrics. You’ll find the exact charges at your nearest VAC.
Don’t forget about other costs either like medical tests (if needed), travel insurance and courier fees if you want your passport delivered.
What If Your Visa Is Refused?
Applications are refused at times. If you do not meet health or character requirements, if the immigration officer doubts your travel plans or if you fail to show enough funds, this could happen to you as well. You’ll get a letter explaining the reasons for rejection if your application is rejected at all. While you can’t appeal all decisions, you can apply again or ask for a review in some cases.
Final Thoughts
You must plan well to secure a visa to beautiful New Zealand. If you follow the steps and give complete information, applying for a visa from the UAE is simple. You may still seek help from a reputable travel agency in Dubai. Apply early, check your documents before submitting them and stay updated by checking the official immigration website. Here’s wishing you good luck. Travel safe and explore the wonderful land of the Kiwis.
