New Zealand will require applications for selected visitor visas and the Transit Visa to be submitted through its enhanced Immigration Online system from 1 October 2026. Paper submissions will remain possible only in exceptional circumstances.
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) announced the change on 4 September. Paper applications submitted before the deadline will continue through normal processing, with no action required from those applicants.
Who Is Affected?
The change covers the standard Visitor Visa, business visitors, group visitors including Approved Destination Status groups, and numerous specialist categories. Examples include parents and grandparents, medical patients, academics and sports visitors. Some categories remain outside the change:
| Visitor visa category | Position |
| Partners and children of students, workers, New Zealanders and military personnel | Existing application channels continue |
| Temporary Retirement Visitor Visa | Existing channels continue |
| Refugee Claimant Visitor Visa | Existing channels continue |
| Trafficking Child Victim Visitor Visa | Existing channels continue |
INZ may change these arrangements later. Applicants should check the complete affected list in the official notice.
Paper Exceptions
Anyone who needs a paper form should contact INZ to discuss their circumstances. The announcement does not provide a detailed eligibility test for an exception.
Applying Online
For someone used to printed forms, preparation starts with an online account. INZ says applicants need a RealMe account, which provides secure access to the application service.
Applicants can complete their form, upload supporting documents and photographs, and pay online. INZ also provides guidance on acceptable file formats, passport scans and common upload problems. Reading those instructions before preparing files can help avoid unnecessary work.
For a standard Visitor Visa, gather evidence of your travel plans, available money or sponsorship, and your ability to leave New Zealand. Documents that are not in English need English translations, alongside copies of the originals. Enter your identity details exactly as they appear in your passport.
After submission, you can check your application status through your account. INZ will contact you if further information is needed and email you when it makes a decision.
Transit Travellers
Passengers changing flights should check whether they need a Transit Visa or qualify for an NZeTA.
A Transit Visa allows a stay of up to 24 hours in Auckland International Airport’s transit area. It does not allow entry into New Zealand or transit through another New Zealand airport. Applicants should prepare their flight details, full itinerary and evidence of onward travel before completing the form.
Before Booking
Submitting an application does not mean permission to travel has been granted. INZ advises Visitor Visa applicants to wait for approval before booking non-refundable travel.
Visitors must still satisfy the visa’s requirements, including having a genuine reason for their visit, sufficient funds or an acceptable sponsor, and plans to leave. For families preparing a holiday or reunion, getting this evidence ready deserves as much attention as completing the online form.