New Zealand Business Visa: A Complete Guide
If you're planning a short business trip to New Zealand—such as meetings, negotiations, contract signings, or exploring opportunities—you'll likely need a Business Visitor Visa specifically for business purposes. Here's everything you need to know.
Who Needs It
A Business Visitor Visa is for stays up to 3 months, intended for purposes like:
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Official trade missions
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Buying/selling goods or services
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Business negotiations or meetings
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Exploring business setup opportunities
You don’t need this visa if you're eligible for visa-free entry (e.g., you hold an NZeTA), or if you're staying less than 3 months and meet waiver eligibility
Documents You’ll Need
As per Immigration NZ:
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Valid passport (with at least 3 months post‑departure validity)
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Passport-size photo(s)
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Letter from home/employer + host company explaining the business purpose
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Proof of sufficient funds:
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NZD 1,000/month/person or NZD 400 if accommodations are prepaid Proof of onward travel (return ticket or sufficient funds)
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Certified English translations for any non‑English documents
Police or medical certificates may be requested depending on duration of stay
Fees & Processing Time
According to credible third-party info:
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Online application:
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Application fee: NZD 120–210
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Passport handling: NZD 40–58
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Courier: NZD 48–100
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Paper application:
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Application fee: NZD 220–330
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Passport fee: NZD 47–83
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Courier: NZD 13–100
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Visa processing usually completes within 11–19 days, though delays may occur if more documents are requested
Eligibility & Limitations
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Stays are limited to up to 3 months in any 12‑month period
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You cannot take up paid employment in NZ with this visa—but you can do studies up to 3 months
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If your business activities require extended stays, consider NZ’s Specific Purpose Work Visa
Other Relevant Visa Options
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Entrepreneur Work Visa: Set up or purchase a business (min. NZD 100k investment)
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Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV): For long-term skilled employment via accredited NZ employers
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Global Impact / Investor Visas: For high-net-worth individuals (NZD 5m+)
Zooming Out
New Zealand’s Business Visitor Visa is ideal for short-term, non-paid business activities like trade discussions and meetings. It's relatively quick to process and straightforward when you have confirmed invitations and documented intent.
Pro Tips
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Apply online for better rates and faster processing.
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Ensure your cover letter clearly outlines business purpose.
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Always bring proof of onward travel and adequate funds.
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Consider other visa types if your trip exceeds 3 months or involves paid work.
If you'd like help preparing application forms, business invitation letters, or organizing documents, BTW Visa Services India Pvt Ltd is ready to assist you with smooth, end-to-end processing for your New Zealand business trip.
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