If your job involves traveling, chances are you’ll find yourself visiting some of the most attractive destinations in the world such as New Zealand. While these trips are amazing, there’s a technical side of it that needs to be deal with. This includes acquiring a visa for your stay in another country. With most countries having their own rules and regulations, it’s important to know what you need to do to obtain a visa for the country you’re visiting. With that said, let’s take a look at how to obtain a business visitor visa for your short-term trip to New Zealand.

Applying for a business visitor visa

If you’re traveling to New Zealand from a non-visa waiver country, the first step you need to take is to apply for a business visitor visa. It’s critical to apply for a visa and obtain it before your trip takes place. You can send an application for yourself only or for yourself and your family members who’re traveling with you. When traveling alone, you can submit your application online. However, when traveling with a partner and/or children, a physical (paper) application is required. Check the personal information you’ll be asked to input and prepare any documentation needed on time.

How long is the business visa valid?

A business visa has an expiration date and it’s critical to be aware of it when entering the country. The last thing you want to happen is to have your visa expire while still in the country. A business visitor visa for New Zealand can be issued for up to 3 months with some exceptions. For example, a business visitor visa British citizens can apply for can be issued for up to 6 months. Also, depending on what kind of work you do, you might be entering and leaving the country on a regular basis. In that case, what you need to apply for is a multiple entry business visitor visa. This will allow you to travel without having to obtain a visa every time before entering New Zealand. Also, unless your visa doesn’t say 'Return/onward travel not required' you need to possess one of two things – a travel ticket to another country or a sponsor who can pay for one.

Funds you need in New Zealand

Another thing you need when entering New Zealand is a proof that you have enough funds for your stay in the country. Most often, a visitor is asked to demonstrate that they have enough funds when entering the country. This doesn’t necessarily apply for visitors from visa waiver countries. However, it’s a good idea to keep such proof with you every time when entering the country. Check the amount of money you should have with you when entering the country when applying for your visa.

Get ready for your trip

Once you obtain a business visitor visa for your trip to New Zealand, it’s time to prepare for your journey. It’s a good idea to become familiar with local rules and regulations, just in case. That way, you’ll know exactly what documentation to have on you when traveling to New Zealand. Another smart thing to do is to read a New Zealand travel guide to make sure your stay in the country goes as planned. You can use any free time you have to visit some of the most exciting spots in the country such as Kapiti Island and Wairarapa.

Not to be confused with a work visa

It’s also important to keep in mind that a business visitor visa isn’t the same thing as a work visa. If you plan to visit New Zealand in order to find a job, what you need is a work visa. However, when visiting New Zealand in order to attend a business meeting or carry out business for your company, what you need is a business visitor visa. The application process for a work visa is something completely different and the two are not to be confused.

Don’t forget about your visa

Although there are so many breathtaking places to visit once all your work is done, make sure you don’t forget about your visa’s expiration date. As mentioned above, you can stay in the country with a business visitor visa for up to three months or six months if you’re from the United Kingdom. Keep the expiration date of your visa in mind and make sure you get all of your work done before it.

Acquiring a business visitor visa for New Zealand isn’t as tough as some may think. However, the process can drag out, and it’s important to apply for your visa on time. Also, make sure you input all your information as accurately as possible to avoid complications. Enjoy your stay in the country and make sure you enjoy some of the most beautiful spots before leaving.