In an accepting action for foreign travelers, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has declared a significant modification to its visitor visa guideline. From 26 May 2025, candidates will no longer need to present certified translations of their non-English accompanying documents.
This update is formed to facilitate the visa request procedure, making it quicker, inexpensive, and less stressful, primarily for travelers from non-English speaking nations.
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What Is Modifying In Translation Requirements
Beginning on 26 May 2025, New Zealand will no longer need certified translations for accompanying documents in visitor visa requests. This update aligns with Australia’s more comfortable visa translation policy and intends to ease the procedure for travelers.
Below is what you are required to understand:
- Verified translations are no longer needed for visitor visa requests.
- You are required to still present translations for all non-English documents.
- Translations are needed to consist of the following:
- Translator’s name
- Their academic certifications or skill
- A statement verifying they are not the candidate, a relative, or an immigration adviser.
- This modification does not apply to resident visa requests; certified translations are still compulsory.
Old Versus New Visa Translation Prerequisites
| Requirement | Before 26th May 2025 | From 26th May 2025 |
| Is certified translation required? | Yes | No |
| Who could translate? | Only eligible, verified translators | Any eligible translator (no qualification) |
| Evidence needed? | Qualification of accuracy | Name of the translator, certifications, and statement only. |
What You Still Require To Offer
Although certification is no longer relevant, translations are required to still consist of the following information:
- Translator’s name
- Their certifications or necessary skill
- A statement that the translator is not the candidate, a relative, or an immigration adviser
Note: This modification applies only to visitor visa requests. Applicants for resident visas are still required to offer certified translations.
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Why This Is The Best News For Travelers
This update brings New Zealand’s visa procedure together with Australia’s more adjustable measures. For candidates, this implies:
- Decreased expenses: Certified translation services can be costly. By taking out this condition, candidates will save huge funds.
- Quicker processing: Getting certified translations can usually delay the visa request procedure. This modification will help hasten the process, permitting travelers to plan their travels more easily.
- Level playing field: Candidates from nations where verified translation services are not preparedly obtainable or are overly bureaucratic will no longer be at a disadvantage.
It is mainly helpful for travelers getting ready for:
- Reunions and family visits
- Short-term study courses or language programs
- Tourism and last-minute trips
- Business travels and conferences
Who Gains The Most?
This modification is mainly assisting with the following:
- First-time guests to New Zealand
- Students going for short study visits
- Usual travelers traveling between Australia and New Zealand
- Families going to see loved ones or going to events
- Nationals of nations where English is not the primary language
This candidate-friendly effort by Immigration New Zealand makes the journey to experience all that New Zealand has to provide more accessible than before.
