New Zealand Immigration (NZ) has announced that the transit visa application process will move online from August 12, aiming to simplify the procedure for all applicants. This change allows applicants to apply for a Transit Visa through the Enhanced Immigration Online system, eliminating the need for paper applications through Visa Application Centres and associated fees. However, group Transit Visa applications for Chinese citizens will still require paper submissions, though efforts are underway to bring this category online as well.
Additionally, New Zealand will expand its Transit Visa Waiver list to include Fiji starting September 4, 2024. Fijian nationals can then apply for an NZeTA Transit instead of a transit visa when passing through Auckland International Airport. The NZeTA Transit application process is expected to be efficient, with most claims processed within 72 hours and valid for up to two years. Current Transit Visas will remain valid until their expiry dates.
Fijian nationals traveling to New Zealand for visits, studies, or work will still need the appropriate visas. Moreover, those transiting via Wellington or Christchurch on Fiji Airways will need a visitor visa due to the lack of transit facilities at these airports.
This policy shift comes after a meeting between New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, aiming to boost bilateral trade to $2 billion by 2030 from the current $1.4 billion. The abolishment of the transit visa for Fijians is a step towards easing immigration conditions that have been in place since the 2006 coup.