Already Applied New Zealand

New Zealand Visa Instructions

Before you Apply

  • The visa type you are applying for is a USA Working Holiday  
  • You will apply for this visa electronically and will not need to physically send your passport anywhere 
  • The New Zealand Student Visa fee is waived for US passport holders. However, there is a NZD$35 required International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy. 
  • As a reminder, the Working Holiday Visa (WHV) is a once in a lifetime visa

Please note: Be aware that Immigration New Zealand can always make updates or changes to the application process and/or fees. If you notice anything different to the information provided here, please alert your Program Manager before continuing your visa application. 

What you will need

  • A copy of your valid passport, valid for at least 15 months after you first arrive in New Zealand. 
  • Evidence of sufficient funds (a screenshot of a bank statement from you or a parent/guardian). At this time, the New Zealand government is requesting proof of approximately NZD$4,200 (approximately USD $2,800-$3,000) but this is subject to change. 
  • Proof of onward travel. You must have a ticket to leave New Zealand or enough money to buy one; you may be asked for this proof once you arrive in the country. 
  • Full medical insurance for length of stay (letter from TEAN) 
  • You will need to notify your bank prior to paying for your visa (if applicable), as it might get flagged as an unauthorized international purchase 

In our experience, the visa approval process typically takes approximately two weeks but this cannot be guaranteed. You should apply as soon as possible to avoid any issues closer to departure.  

Once you receive your visa approval, please upload it to the “Upload Final Proof of Visa” section of your TEAN application. 

Please complete your visa application using the following instructions. Failure to answer questions correctly may delay your visa and therefore your entry date into New Zealand. The following notes are applicable to the majority of students but ultimately it is your responsibility to read the application and ensure that you are answering all questions truthfully. If you are unsure how you should respond to a question, please check with your Program Manager. 

Starting your Application

Starting your Application

  • Visit the Immigration New Zealand page for Working Holiday Visas here.  
  • Under New Users, click the Create an Account link 
  • Complete the registration for your account.  
  • Once that’s complete you will be taken to a page with information about the Working Holiday Visa. Review the information and then select the United States of America option.  
  • From there, click the Apply Now button to get started on your Working Holiday Visa Application.  

Visa Questions - Helpful Tips

Helpful Application Tips

Section 1: Personal  

Personal Details 

  • Complete this with information as it pertains to you 
  • Make sure the information matches what is on your passport 

 Address 

  • Complete this with information as it pertains to you 

Contact Details 

  • Complete this with information as it pertains to you 
  • Are you represented by an immigration adviser? – Select No since you are completing your application on your own 

 Identification 

  • Passport Details – Add your passport information  
  • Second Form of Identification – Add second form of identification like a driver’s license or birth certificate 

 Occupation Details 

  • Industry – Search for the industry that most closely matches your job. If you aren’t working, please select Not Stated 
  • Occupation – Student 
 Section 2: Health 

Health 

  • Answer these questions as they pertain to you 
 Section 3: Character 

Character 

  • Answer these as they pertain to you 
 Section 4: WHS Specific 

Working Holiday Specific 

  • Answer these questions as they pertain to you 
  • Do you have sufficient funds available for your Working Holiday in New Zealand? – Answer as it pertains to you. Remember you need to have at least NZD $4,200 and you may be asked to show proof of these funds. 
  • Please enter the date you intend to travel to New Zealand – List your arrival date into New Zealand for this question 

 Once you have completed all sections of the application, you will submit the application. You may be asked to provide documents like your flight itinerary, copy of your passport, proof of funds, insurance confirmation, etc. If you have any questions about any documents you may be asked for, please contact your Program Manager.  

After Applying

After Applying

  • Application processing and approval takes approximately 2 weeks 
  • Check your email and SPAM folders for any correspondence from Immigration New Zealand 
  • If you are asked by Immigration New Zealand to provide a tuition fee receipt, please contact your Program Manager 
  • Check your Immigration New Zealand account regularly for updates/visa confirmation  
  • Upload your visa approval confirmation to your TEAN Application under ‘Upload Final Proof of Visa