New Zealand to shift Group, Tour Escort visitor visa applications to enhanced online system from August 24

New Zealand will move Group Visitor Visa and Tour Escort Visitor Visa applications to its enhanced Immigration Online system from August 24, 2026, as part of its ongoing effort to modernise visa processing, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) announced on Monday.

The transition, originally planned for an earlier date, has been postponed to allow additional testing before the new system goes live. Until August 24, applicants can continue submitting applications through the current online system without affecting their travel plans.

The change will cover Group Visitor Visas, including Approved Destination Status (ADS) applications, and Tour Escort Visitor Visas, including General Visitor Visas for ADS Free and Independent Travellers (FIT).


According to Immigration New Zealand, the additional time will help ensure the system is stable and fully functional before applications begin moving to the enhanced platform.

Why the change is being made

The move is part of Immigration New Zealand's Our Future Services programme, which aims to modernise the country's immigration system through a more sustainable digital service model.

The immigration authority said it plans to use smart technologies, automation and data-driven risk management to improve efficiency while providing a better experience for both applicants and staff.

Immigration New Zealand said the redesigned application process is intended to make visa applications simpler and easier to understand, reduce waiting times, provide clearer updates on application status and increase self-service options for users.

The department also said it has worked with visa processing staff, immigration professionals and the international tourism sector, including ADS agents, to design the new application and processing system.

A new feature under development will allow applicants to share their Group Visitor Visa application with other people involved in the application, including fellow group members and tour agency staff.

From August 24, all new Group Visitor Visa and Tour Escort Visitor Visa applications will automatically be directed through the enhanced Immigration Online platform. Immigration New Zealand said it will publish further guidance on its website before the transition takes effect.

The online platform was first introduced in 2021. Immigration New Zealand has already shifted several visa categories to the system, including international student visas, visitor visas, Accredited Employer Work Visas and permanent resident visas. The department said all remaining visa products will move to the enhanced platform in phases under the Our Future Services programme.