New Zealand: Estimated Visa Processing Times and Delays 

Last Updated on February 23, 2023

Key Points 

  • The government of New Zealand published information on the estimated processing times and delays for visa applications for 2022  

Overview 

The government of New Zealand released information on processing times and processing delays for visa applications. The government estimates the following processing times as of August 2022: 

  • Visitor visas: 20 days or more 
  • Work visa types: 19 to 39 days 
  • Permanent Resident visas: 77 days to five months 
  • Skilled Migrant visas: 36 months to 44 months  

The government stated that delays are expected due to the increased volume of applications submitted after the country reopened borders following adjustments to COVID-19 restrictions. 

What are the Changes?  

The government of New Zealand introduced new time estimates for the processing of immigration documents and visas. According to the government announcement, these processing times may be adjusted due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and increased processing demands of Permanent Resident Visas and the issuance of new passports. 

Looking Ahead  

Continue to check the government of New Zealand’s website and Envoy’s website for the latest updates and information. 


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Content in this publication is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an attorney at one of the two U.S. Law Firms working with the Envoy Platform or another qualified professional. On non-U.S. immigration issues, consult an Envoy global immigration service provider or another qualified representative.