Unless you are an Australian citizen you will need to obtain a visa to enter New Zealand. There are two main types of visa available for backpackers and travellers. Once one you choose will depend on how long you will be staying in New Zealand and if you want to work.

Visitor Visa
The visitor visa allows you to travel in New Zealand initially for 3-6 months although this can be extended. For the majority of nationalities the visitor visa lasts for three months. For many European/Asian countries and the Americas you will be automatically given a visitor visa on arrival. All other nationalities must apply in advance within their home country to a New Zealand embassy. British citizens will be issued with a six month visitor visa on arrival. For more details please see www.immigration.govt.nz. With the visitor visa you are not able to undertake any paid employment. If you wish to work whilst travelling in New Zealand you will need a Working Holiday Visa. Lucky Australians however don't need a visa to enter, live or work in New Zealand.

Working Holiday Visa
This visa allows you to work and travel in New Zealand for up to two years. However it is only available to certain countries. To read more on this visa please read our dedicated Working Holiday Visa Guide which can be found in the work and jobs section of the site.

Internship Visa - If you are currently at University and wish to undertake a work placement or internship in New Zealand you can apply for an Internship Visa. For more details on this visa and relate companies please see our Internship Guide

Student Visa - If you wish to come and study at an educational institution or Language School in New Zealand for longer than three months then you will need to obtain a Student Visa. You will have to meet requirements such as an offer of a place from your institution, funds to paid course fees and have accommodation provided. For more details on this visa please see the NZ Immigration Study Guide.