The ongoing situation in the Middle East continues to disrupt international travel, including flight cancellations and delays through key transit hubs.
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) understands this is a stressful situation for people whose travel plans have been affected. INZ services continue to operate, and we are taking a pragmatic and empathetic approach where people are affected by circumstances beyond their control.
This information is for people who hold a temporary New Zealand visa, including visitor, work, student and other temporary visas, whether they are currently in New Zealand or outside New Zealand.
If you hold a New Zealand visa
If you hold a New Zealand visa and are planning to travel, you must continue to meet all visa conditions, including checking:
The current situation in Iran and surrounding regions may disrupt flights at short notice. You should ensure your travel plans are confirmed before departing.
Holding a valid visa does not guarantee access to flights, as international air services may be affected by the closure of international airspace.
Your temporary visa is about to expire
What you need to do depends on where you are and your visa status.
If you are in New Zealand
If you need to stay past the expiry date of your current temporary visa, you cannot extend your visa. You must apply for another temporary visa before your current visa expires.
If you apply before expiry and a decision has not been made, you may be issued an Interim Visa, allowing you to remain in New Zealand lawfully while your application is processed.
INZ understands that, in crisis situations, it may not be possible to obtain all usual documentation. Applications will be assessed based on the information people can reasonably access, and individual circumstances will be taken into account.
If you are outside New Zealand
If your visa expires while you are offshore, you will not be able to return on that visa and must apply for a new visa before travelling to New Zealand.
Some visas issued offshore include first entry travel dates. If the current Middle East situation has delayed your travel, you should check whether your visa’s travel validity still applies before making plans.
INZ understands that in crisis situations it may not be possible to obtain all usual documentation. Applications will be assessed based on the information people can reasonably access, and individual circumstances will be taken into account.
What type of visa should you apply for
The visa you should apply for depends on your current visa and your reason for staying.
You must apply before your current visa expires to remain eligible for an Interim Visa.