In an effort to streamline visa application processes and enhance efficiency, New Zealand has announced a new requirement effective June 17, 2024. As per reports from SchengenNews, applicants must furnish certified English translations for any documents originally presented in a foreign language.
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) clarified that it does not undertake document translations on behalf of visa applicants. Hence, applicants are responsible for ensuring that all relevant documents are provided in English or accompanied by certified translations from reputable private or official translation entities. Community members recognized for their accurate translations are also acceptable providers.
The move aims to expedite processing times, as applications previously submitted with non-English documents or lacking translations necessitated additional processing efforts.
Outlined in a recent statement by INZ, the following categories of documents require translation during the visa application process:
Proof of financial means, such as bank statements and salary records
Flight itineraries, including return tickets
Evidence of employment
Leave documentation
Identity documents other than passports, such as Hukou for Chinese nationals
Moreover, it’s reiterated that English translations of medical and police certificates, if originally in a foreign language, are already mandatory for visitor visa applicants.
Applicants have the option of obtaining certified translations from recognized private or official translation services. Alternatively, translations from community members renowned for their accuracy are acceptable, with the exception of the applicant, family members, or their immigration advisor.
It’s emphasized that INZ will not entertain applications submitted without translated documents. Any translations undertaken by the applicant, family members, or an immigration advisor will be disregarded.
Additionally, INZ specified instances where original documents or certified copies are unnecessary:
If uncertified copies are requested in INZ forms or guidelines
If legible scans of original documents are provided in the online application
If legible copies of original documents are submitted for temporary entry visa applications
On a related note, New Zealand’s passport currently holds the 29th position in the VisaGuide Passport Index, affording its citizens visa-free travel to 148 countries worldwide. However, for entry into countries not covered by visa exemption agreements, New Zealand passport holders are required to apply for visas in advance.
