If you’re in New Zealand and your visa is about to expire while you’re applying for a visa renewal or a new visa, the “Interim Visa” helps you stay legally during the processing period. This visa is automatically issued to those who apply for a new visa before their current one expires, and it’s valid for up to six months. In this blog post, we will cover the details of New Zealand’s Interim Visa.

What is an Interim Visa?

An Interim Visa is granted automatically to people currently living in New Zealand who have applied for a new visa but whose current visa will expire before the new one is issued. There is no need to apply separately for this visa.

How long is an Interim Visa valid?

An Interim Visa is valid for up to six months or until your new visa is processed. Once your new visa is approved, the Interim Visa automatically expires, and the conditions of the new visa apply.

What are the conditions of an Interim Visa?

The conditions of an Interim Visa often mirror those of the previous visa. For instance, if you held a student visa and applied for another student visa, you can continue your studies during the Interim Visa period under the same conditions. However, if you apply for a different type of visa (e.g., a work visa), the conditions of the Interim Visa might change.

The table below outlines the types and conditions of interim visas that may be issued based on the current visa held and the new visa being applied for.

Travel Restrictions (Important!)

An Interim Visa does not grant you the right to leave and re-enter New Zealand. If you leave New Zealand while on an Interim Visa, it will automatically expire, and you will not be able to re-enter until you receive your new visa. Therefore, it is crucial not to leave New Zealand while waiting for your visa application to be processed.

When does an Interim Visa expire?

An Interim Visa will expire in the following cases:

• When the new visa is approved
• If the new visa application is declined
• If the visa application is withdrawn

If your visa application is declined during the six months that the Interim Visa is valid, the Interim Visa will expire 21 days after the rejection date, requiring you to leave New Zealand within those 21 days.

Similarly, if you withdraw your visa application, the Interim Visa will expire 21 days after the withdrawal date, meaning you must leave New Zealand within that time.

You cannot apply for another visa while on an Interim Visa. For example, if you applied for a work visa and were issued an Interim Visa, you cannot switch to a student or visitor visa after withdrawing your work visa application.

Tips for Using an Interim Visa

The Interim Visa is essential for staying legally in New Zealand while waiting for a visa decision. It’s crucial to apply for a new visa before your current one expires, and ensure that all required documents and procedures are in order. Understanding and following the conditions of the Interim Visa during the processing period is also vital.

The New Zealand Interim Visa is an important system that allows you to remain in the country legally during any gaps between visa renewals or new visa applications.

I hope this post has helped you understand the concept, conditions, and important points regarding the Interim Visa.

– Jane Joo