New Zealand to Require Online Filing for Selected Visitor and Transit Visa Applications

• New Zealand will stop accepting paper applications for several visitor and transit visa categories beginning Oct. 1, 2026, requiring applicants to use the Immigration Online platform. 

Online Filing for Selected Visitor and Transit Visa Applications

Immigration New Zealand announced that selected visitor and transit visa applications must be submitted through its enhanced online application system starting Oct. 1, 2026.  

The update is expected to streamline visa processing and reduce administrative requirements through expanded use of New Zealand’s online immigration platform. 

Affected Visa Categories 

The change applies to: 

• Transit Visas 
• Visitor Visas 
• Business Visitor Visas 
• Group Visitor Visas 
• Academic Visitor Visas 
• Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visas 
• Medical Treatment Visitor Visas 
• Various other visitor visa subclasses  

Important Considerations 

• Paper applications submitted before Oct. 1, 2026, will continue to be processed normally. 
• Paper applications will generally only be accepted in exceptional circumstances after the implementation date. 
• Certain visitor visa categories are not currently included in this transition. 

Don’t Miss an Update

At Envoy Global, we combine smart, friendly legal teams with smart, friendly technology to facilitate immigration for companies and the global talent they depend on. Our holistic, proactive immigration services are built for accuracy and efficiency, always putting people first.

Reach out today to learn how we can support your company’s immigration needs.