New Zealand Visa DIY: Step-by-Step Guide for Stress-Free Application

The entire application was completed within just 2 days: it took only 1 hour to fill out the online form, and a full day to prepare the English materials. Preparing these documents is a bit more intricate compared to the Australian visa process, as translation is required. For Australia, you can use the original Chinese documents directly.

Despite the initial effort, it took 1.5 weeks to receive the visa. The good news is that it’s a five-year multiple entry visa, making the effort well worth it. I wish everyone a smooth and successful visa application process!

### 1️⃣ How to Apply (Step-by-Step Process):
—> Visit the New Zealand Immigration website.
—> Create a RealMe account and log in (QQ email is acceptable).
—> Navigate to [My Visas] and then click on [APPLY FOR A VISA]. Fill in your personal information.
—> After completing the form, click [PAY & SUBMIT APPLICATION] to submit.
—> You can check the status of your application at each step on the official website.

### 2️⃣ Required Materials:
Here’s a detailed checklist for the New Zealand visa application:

1. **Passport**: Ensure it is valid for more than five years to qualify for a 5-year visa.
2. **ID Card**: Scan both sides of your ID card. You will need a Naati-certified translation and stamp. You can find Naati stamps on Taobao. Combine the translation and copy into one PDF.
3. **Household Registration Book**: Scan the entire book, and get a Naati-certified translation and stamp.

Again, combine the translation and copy into one PDF.
4. **Photos**: Provide two 2-inch photos with a light background. I used the same photos from my Schengen application, and they were accepted.
5. **Retirement/Student/Employment Certificate + Business License**: I used a template from my Schengen application for the employment certificate, which included my monthly income and start date of employment.

6. **Bank Statements**: Provide statements for the last 6 months, with a balance of at least 50,000 RMB. I read on Xiaohongshu that this amount is necessary for a five-year visa. I went to the bank to print the English version of the bank statement and also got an English asset certificate, which includes funds and wealth management.

Each certificate costs 20 RMB.
7. **English Writing Part**:
— **Cover Letter**: Explain that your trip to New Zealand is solely for tourism. Mention that you have a stable job, a strong attachment to Shanghai, and a firm intention to return to China.
— **Explanation Letter**: I wrote a two-page document combining insights from Xiaohongshu and Deepseek, explaining the reasons for applying for a five-year multiple entry visa.

8. **Travel Itinerary**: Prepare a detailed itinerary in English. Ensure it is logical and realistic.
9. **Additional Documents (Optional)**: You can provide proof of property, savings, and investments. I included stock asset proof and a bank wealth management asset certificate.

### Summary:
1. Ensure all materials are uploaded in PDF format.
2. All Chinese documents must be translated into English. I used certified translations from NATTI or NZSTI for the ID card and household registration book. For bank statements, to avoid high translation costs, I obtained them directly in English from the bank.

3. The bank statement should show a balance of at least 50,000 RMB.
4. In the cover letter, include as many asset proof documents as possible. Additionally, highlight any past study abroad experiences, entry and exit records, Australian visa history, and visas from other countries. This comprehensive approach will strengthen your application.