Visiting New Zealand can be intimidating because of the sheer paperwork often associated with travel abroad. While it’s true that the “Godzone” has lax requirements for people visiting from some countries for some reasons, this lack of formality can actually make travel to New Zealand more confusing instead of less. Use this step-by-step guide to confirm that you have all of your document ducks in a row.
Step One: Confirm that you are from a Visa-Waiver country.
If you are from the United States, Canada or the United Kingdom, you can visit for pleasure for up to three months (six if from the UK) without a visa. This doesn’t mean no paperwork – just that a visa isn’t part of the paperwork required.
Check this link for a list of other countries that have visa-waiver agreements with New Zealand.
Exceptions: Travel to New Zealand for medical treatment or business purposes may require a visa. Both of these types of trips are much more complex, and you should contact the New Zealand Embassy or Consulate to work out details.
Step Two: Check Your Passport
Not needing a visa doesn’t mean you won’t need your standard travel documents. As soon as you know you’re going to New Zealand, check your passports to make sure they won’t expire before your return. It’s possible to replace or renew a passport on short notice, but it gets exponentially more expensive the faster you have to do it.
Step Three: Prove That You’re Leaving
New Zealand is wonderful by all reports – so wonderful that the New Zealand authorities are afraid visitors won’t want to leave. Before they let you into the country, New Zealand customs inspectors will want to see the ticket stubs that prove you have an exit strategy. This is trivial to arrange, but have them printed and available when you pack for your trip.
Step Four: Prove That You Can Afford It
The authorities also want evidence that you can support yourself during your stay. As of November, 2012, they require proof of funds to the tune of $1000 per month per person. This can be in the form of cash on hand, current bank statements, or an indication of a credit card with enough available balance.
If you are staying with friends or family, they can complete the Sponsorship for Temporary Entry (INZ 1025). Which basically says a resident of New Zealand will take responsibility for your financial upkeep while you’re in the country.
If you are using a vacation rental, you can qualify for a partial waiver of this requirement. If your lodging is already paid for in full, you only have to prove funds of $400 per month per person. Print your receipt from the vacation rental transaction and keep it among your other proof of funds paperwork.
Step Five: Enjoy Your Trip
Between the unique culture, gentle beaches and rolling landscape, New Zealand is one of the best vacation destinations in the world. Rest easy knowing your paperwork is in order, and explore all the country has to offer.
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