A Limited Visa is a special type of visa granted for a specific and short-term purpose, such as attending a family event, funeral, graduation, medical treatment, or short training program. Unlike other visas, it’s designed to let you enter and leave New Zealand within a set time — and not to stay longer, switch visa types, or apply for residence.

If you need to visit New Zealand for a genuine, time-sensitive reason, this visa may be your best option.

Who Should Consider a Limited Visa?

You might apply for a Limited Visa if you're:

  • Attending a funeral, wedding, or family gathering
  • Receiving urgent medical treatment
  • Participating in a short course or training
  • Visiting due to an emergency situation
  • Attending a graduation ceremony or school event

This visa is not for tourism, job seeking, or long-term study.

Important Notes About a Limited Visa

  • The visa is strictly for the purpose stated in your application.
  • You cannot apply for another type of visa once you are in New Zealand.
  • You must leave the country by the expiry date.
  • Immigration New Zealand will not assess your application under humanitarian grounds or consider appeals.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for a Limited Visa

Step 1: Define Your Reason for Travel

Make sure your reason is specific, genuine, and time-sensitive. You’ll need to back this up with documents like:

  • Invitations
  • Medical appointments
  • Funeral notices
  • Graduation letters
  • Travel bookings

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

Gather supporting documents to prove:

  • Your reason for visiting
  • That you’ll return home after the event
  • That you have sufficient funds or a sponsor
  • Your identity, health, and good character

Step 3: Apply for the Visa

You can apply online or via a paper application form. In your application:

  • Select “Limited Visa” as the type of visa.
  • Clearly explain your reason and include supporting evidence.
  • Choose a valid visa length based on your reason — usually up to 3 months.

Step 4: Wait for a Decision

Immigration New Zealand will process your visa based on the evidence provided. If approved, you’ll receive an eVisa with the exact date you must leave the country.

Conditions of a Limited Visa

  • Further Limited Visa only granted if more time is needed for original purpose.
  • You cannot change your visa status once you’re in New Zealand.
  • You must exit New Zealand before the visa expires.
  • If you stay longer or break visa rules, you could face a ban from returning.

Why Immigration May Grant a Limited Visa

INZ typically issues a Limited Visa when they:

  • Have doubts about your long-term intentions
  • Want to provide a controlled, one-time entry for a compelling reason
  • Need to limit your stay due to concerns about previous visa history

In some cases, Immigration NZ will issue a Limited Visa instead of the visa you originally applied for — especially if they are not convinced about your ability to meet standard visitor visa rules.

When to Seek Expert Help

You should talk to a licensed immigration adviser if:

  • You’ve been offered a Limited Visa instead of a Visitor Visa
  • You’re unsure if your purpose qualifies
  • Your visa application was declined or delayed
  • You have a complex travel history or immigration concerns

Final Words

A Limited Visa is a strict, purpose-driven visa. If your plan is to come to New Zealand briefly and for a very specific reason — and you can prove it — this visa could be suitable for you. But don’t risk applying without advice. There are no second chances or appeals if something goes wrong.

Need Support With a Limited Visa?

At JD Immigration, we help people prepare strong Limited Visa applications and avoid costly mistakes. Whether it’s for a family emergency, medical reason, or short-term visit — we’ll help you get it right the first time.

Contact our Licensed Immigration Adviser today
Make your visit smooth, legal, and stress-free.