Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has announced that people applying for a Transit Visa will no longer have to submit paper applications through Visa Application Centres, providing a more streamlined and efficient experience and removing fees associated with submitting through a Visa Application Centre.
Applying online makes the application process easier and provides applicants more visibility over their application, allowing them to check their application progress in real-time.
Chinese Group Transit Visa applications
Applicants applying for Group Transit Visas for Chinese Nationals must continue using the paper application process. INZ will be working on an online solution for this category soon.
Changes to transit requirements for Fijian nationals
Fiji will be added to the Transit Visa waiver list from September 4, 2024. This allows Fijian nationals to apply for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) instead of a Transit Visa, simplifying the application process. From this date, Fiji nationals can apply for an NZeTA to transit through New Zealand. If an individual already has an approved Transit Visa, it will remain valid until its expiry date even after the waiver takes effect.
- The fee for an NZeTA is NZD 23 for online applications or NZD 17 if using the free app. Most NZeTA requests are processed within 72 hours and are valid for two years.
- Fijian nationals who intend to visit, study, or work in New Zealand will still need to apply for the appropriate visa before traveling.
- Fijian nationals travelling from or to Fiji through Wellington or Christchurch on Fiji Airways will still need to apply for a Visitor Visa, as there are no transit facilities at Wellington or Christchurch airports.
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.