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Which documents do I need?
Documents for visa applications
When applying for most New Zealand visas, you will need to provide evidence that you meet the criteria of the visa you are applying for. Some of the documents required as evidence can take time to collect so ensure you allow enough time before you want to submit your application. Some evidence only remains valid for a period of time such as within 6 months.
The criteria are listed on the visa records on the Immigration New Zealand website.
Check the criteria of the visa you are applying for
Each visa has different criteria so it is important to check the requirements before you submit your application. You can find the criteria and the required documents to be used as evidence on the specific visa record on the Immigration New Zealand website.
Examples of evidence you may need to provide are:
- Job offer: evidence of your job offer, usually an employment agreement that includes the employer, the position, hours of work and remuneration
- Good health: medical certificate as evidence you are in good health
- Good character: police certificate(s) as evidence you are of good character
- Genuine and stable relationship: evidence of a genuine and stable relationship if applying for a visa based on your relationship with your partner.
- Qualification: evidence that your qualification is comparable to a New Zealand qualification.
- English language requirements: evidence that you meet the English language requirements.
Useful documents to bring to New Zealand
To help when setting yourself up in New Zealand, it is useful to have some documents from your home country. This will make registering for services in New Zealand much easier. Documents that may be useful include:
- birth certificates
- marriage certificate
- academic qualifications
- medical records such as doctor's or dental records and vaccination certificates
- references from previous landlords
- credit references.
If possible, it is best to have the original or a certified copy of these documents.