From June 17, 2024, all supporting documents submitted with visitor visa applications to Immigration New Zealand (INZ) must be provided in English. Applicants must provide a certified English translation of any documents in a foreign language. Applications without translated documents are likely to be declined.
Previously, applications including documents provided in a foreign language and with no translations could take longer to process.
What documents need translation?
All supporting documents submitted with visitor visa applications must be provided in English or include an English translation. Examples of documents that require translation can include:
- proof of funds — such as bank statements, pay records
- flight itineraries including return tickets
- proof of employment in your home country
- leave of absence documentation
- identity documents other than passports — for example, Hukou for Chinese nationals.
It is already a requirement for visitor visa applicants to provide English translations of medical and police certificates that are in a foreign language.
Who can complete a certified translation?
Applicants can provide certified translations completed by:
- reputable private or official translation businesses
- community members known for their accurate translations, excluding the applicant, family members, or their immigration adviser.
INZ will also accept translations from a licensed immigration adviser (LIA) who is:
- a trustworthy person within the community
- known to translate documents accurately
- not an adviser on the application.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.