Link New Zealand Visa to New Passport:How do I link my New Zealand visa to my new passport?
Q: How do I link my New Zealand visa to my new passport?
A: To link your New Zealand visa to a new passport, you need to update your visa record with Immigration New Zealand (INZ). If you are offshore or your old passport is still valid, you can apply online through your Immigration New Zealand account by submitting a 'Visa Transfer' request. You will need to provide your old passport details, your new passport details, and your visa reference number. Alternatively, if you are already in New Zealand and your old passport has expired or been cancelled, you must complete the 'Application for Transfer of a Visa to a New Passport' form (INZ 1023) and submit it along with your new passport, a certified copy of your old passport, and the applicable fee. INZ will then electronically link your existing visa to your new passport. Once processed, you will receive an updated eVisa or a visa label, depending on your preference. It is important to do this before travelling, as your visa is only valid when presented with the passport it is linked to.
Q: What documents are required to transfer a New Zealand visa to a new passport?
A: To transfer your New Zealand visa to a new passport, you typically need to provide several documents. First, a completed 'Application for Transfer of a Visa to a New Passport' form (INZ 1023) if applying by paper. Second, your new passport, which must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure from New Zealand. Third, a certified copy of your old passport, including the personal details page and the page showing your current visa. If your old passport has been lost or stolen, you must provide a police report or a statutory declaration explaining the circumstances. Additionally, you may need to provide evidence of your current immigration status, such as a copy of your eVisa or visa label. If you are applying online, you will need to upload digital copies of these documents. In some cases, INZ may request further information, such as a recent passport-sized photo or proof of name change if your name differs between passports. The fee for a visa transfer is NZD $135 as of 2024, and processing times can vary.
Q: Can I travel while my New Zealand visa transfer is being processed?
A: It is generally not advisable to travel while your New Zealand visa transfer is being processed. Your current visa is only valid when presented with the passport it is linked to. If you travel on your new passport without having transferred your visa, you may be denied boarding or entry into New Zealand because the airline and border officials will not see a valid visa linked to your new passport. However, if you must travel urgently, you can request a 'Visa Transfer' to be processed as a priority, but this is not guaranteed. Alternatively, you could carry both your old and new passports if your old passport is still valid and has the visa label, but this is only acceptable if the old passport has not been cancelled. Once your visa transfer is approved, you will receive an updated eVisa or a new visa label in your new passport. Always check with Immigration New Zealand or your airline before travelling to avoid any issues. Processing times for visa transfers can take up to two weeks or longer, so plan accordingly.
Words of experience
Common scenarios of "Link New Zealand Visa to New Passport"
【User】 Hi, I need to link my New Zealand visa to my new passport. Can you help me with that?
【Immigration Officer】 Yes, I can help you with that. First, may I have your full name and date of birth?
【User】 My name is John Smith, and my date of birth is 15th March 1985.
【Immigration Officer】 Thank you, Mr. Smith. Do you have your old passport and new passport with you?
【User】 Yes, I have both. The old one is cancelled, and the new one was issued last month.
【Immigration Officer】 Great. Could you please provide the passport numbers for both?
【User】 The old passport number is AB1234567, and the new one is CD7654321.
【Immigration Officer】 Thank you. What type of visa do you currently hold?
【User】 I have a work visa, specifically an Essential Skills Visa.
【Immigration Officer】 I see. To update your visa with the new passport, we need to verify your identity. Do you have a copy of your new passport's biodata page?
【User】 Yes, I have a photocopy here. Should I send it to you?
【Immigration Officer】 You can upload it through our online system or bring it to our office. Which would you prefer?
【User】 I'd prefer to upload it online. Can you guide me through the process?
【Immigration Officer】 Certainly. Go to the Immigration New Zealand website and log into your account. Then select 'Update Passport Details' and follow the prompts.
【User】 Okay, I'm logged in. I see the option. Should I enter the new passport number?
【Immigration Officer】 Yes, enter the new passport number and upload a clear scan of the biodata page. Then submit the request.
【User】 Done. How long will it take to process?
【Immigration Officer】 Usually within 5-10 working days. You'll receive a confirmation email once it's updated.
【User】 Will I get a new visa label or is it electronic?
【Immigration Officer】 It's electronic. You'll be able to view and print your updated visa online. No physical label is needed.
【User】 That's convenient. Thank you for your help!
【Immigration Officer】 You're welcome. If you have any issues, feel free to contact us. Have a great day!
