IMMINZ · IMMIGRATION GUIDE
Permanent residence: check your dates and conditions
On this page
What to check first
- Check at least two continuous years holding residence and your current visa status.
- Review any conditions attached to the Resident Visa.
- Identify how you meet one of INZ’s five commitment-to-New-Zealand options.
Prepare for a useful first conversation
Have your residence grant and first-entry dates, travel history, current eVisa and any conditions ready. Mention upcoming international travel before choosing an application date.
A common question
Can I apply early and complete two years while waiting?
INZ warns that applications made before all requirements are met may be declined. Check eligibility at the date you apply.
Prepare your application file
- Residence history: grant date, first arrival as a resident if applicable, and any conditions attached to the original category.
- Travel history: actual entry and exit dates, rather than an estimate of time spent in New Zealand.
- Commitment evidence: identify which permitted route demonstrates your commitment to New Zealand and prepare its evidence.
A point worth checking early
Reaching two years does not by itself guarantee permanent residence. Your original residence category may have longer requirements or outstanding conditions; check travel conditions before leaving NZ.
Our published service fee
$500 + $100/applicant
This is the fee displayed on our service page. Confirm the scope and applicable costs before engaging us. Government charges, where applicable, are separate. Official processing estimates can change and are not guaranteed completion dates.
Discuss the support you need
Ask us to review your residence dates, conditions and evidence before selecting the application date.
We will confirm the work included and the applicable fees before you engage us. The checklist is a starting point; the documents required depend on your circumstances.
Related guides
Explore relevant options; moving between visas is not automatic. Each route has its own requirements.