Chinese Visa Policy and Requirements for Citizens of New Zealand

1. Visa-Exempt Pilot Program (2024–2025)

 

  • Eligibility:
    • New Zealand citizens with ordinary passports can enter mainland China visa-free for up to 15 days (July 1, 2024, to December 31, 2025).
    • Permitted Activities: Tourism, business, Visiting relatives and friends.，or transit.
    • Restrictions:
      • No extension of stay; overstaying may lead to fines or deportation.
      • Not applicable to work (Z visa), study (X visa), or residency.

2. Visa Requirements for Non-Exempt Cases

 

  • When a Visa Is Needed:
    • Stays exceeding 15 days.
    • Purposes like work, study, or long-term residency.
  • Common Visa Types:
    • Tourist Visa (L): 30–90 days stay (single/multiple entry).
    • Business Visa (M): For trade/meetings (up to 90 days).
    • Work Visa (Z): Requires sponsorship and employment license.
    • Student Visa (X): For study ≥6 months (pre-approval from Chinese institution).
  • Required Documents (General):
    • Passport: Valid for ≥6 months, with 2 blank pages.
    • Photos: Two 48mm × 33mm color photos (white background).
    • Online Application (COVA): Complete the China Online Visa Application form.
    • Travel Itinerary: Round-trip flight bookings and hotel reservations.
    • Proof of Purpose:
      • Tourist: No invitation needed (for visa-free period, skip this).
      • Business: Invitation letter from a Chinese entity.
      • Work/Study: Official invitation/sponsorship documents.
    • Financial Proof: Bank statements (last 6 months) or employment certificate.

3. Visa Application Process

 

  1. Online Submission: Use the COVA portal to apply and schedule an appointment.
  2. In-Person Submission: Visit the Chinese Embassy/Consulate in New Zealand (Wellington, Auckland, or Christchurch) with documents.
  3. Biometrics: Fingerprinting required for applicants aged 14–70 (unless exempt).
  4. Processing Time: 4–7 business days (standard).

4. Transit Visa-Free Policy

 

  • 24-Hour Transit: No visa needed for transit through most Chinese airports.
  • 72/144-Hour Transit: Available in major cities (e.g., Beijing, Shanghai) with confirmed onward tickets (valid for certain nationalities; check eligibility).

5. Special Policies for Hong Kong/Macau SAR

 

  • Hong Kong: 90 days visa-free.
  • Macau: 30 days visa-free.

6. Key Notes

 

  • COVID-19: No pre-departure tests or quarantine required (check updates).
  • Customs: Declare cash over NZ$10,000 (or equivalent). Tobacco/alcohol limits apply (16+ years: 400 cigarettes, 1.5L alcohol).
  • Electronic Devices: Customs may inspect devices for Prohibited Content (cooperation required).

7. Embassy Contact

 

  • Chinese Embassy in New Zealand (Wellington):
  • Consulates-General: Auckland and Christchurch (check website for details).