Gather and carry your key documents

Why it matters

• Immigration New Zealand lists documents that are useful to have when you arrive, because they make it easier to register for services.

Steps

1. Open Immigration New Zealand's planning page and read its section on bringing your documents with you.
2. For each document, try to have the original or a certified copy.
3. If your driver licence isn't in English, get an accurate English translation or an international driving permit, and carry it with your current overseas licence.
4. If your visa application includes documents that aren't in English, check Immigration New Zealand's rules on certified translations.

Documents you'll need

• Medical and dental records and vaccination certificates
• Birth and marriage certificates
• Your academic qualifications
• References from previous employers and landlords, your CV and credit references
• Your driver licence or international driving permit

Common mistakes

• Bringing only an international driving permit. You can't convert to a New Zealand licence with the permit alone; you need your physical overseas licence.

Watch out for

• NZ Transport Agency's rule: if your last arrival in New Zealand is on or after 1 November 2026, you can drive on your overseas car licence for 12 months from that arrival; if it was before, 18 months. Leaving and coming back starts the period again.
• A certified translation for Immigration New Zealand can't be done by you, your family or your immigration adviser.
• Tax across two countries can be complex. Inland Revenue says you may want to talk to a tax professional if you're unsure about your situation.

When to get advice

• Immigration New Zealand says you can ask your employer or a registered immigration adviser for help with your visa application, and there may be a cost.

Sources