Pacific Access Category Resident Visa processing time
As at 22 July 2026, 50% of recent Pacific Access Category Resident Visa applications were processed within 16 months and 80% within 18 months, per Immigration New Zealand's published figures.
16 months
50% processed within
18 months
80% processed within
Trend
Daily captures of INZ's published figures, in calendar days.
About this visa
If you are from Fiji, Kiribati, Tonga or Tuvalu you can register for this ballot to come to New Zealand. If we select and accept your registration, we invite you to apply for the Pacific Access Category Resident Visa.
Frequently asked questions
- How long does the Pacific Access Category Resident Visa take to process?
- As at 22 July 2026, Immigration New Zealand reports that 50% of recent Pacific Access Category Resident Visa applications were completed within 16 months and 80% within 18 months. Individual applications can take longer, particularly if INZ requests further information.
- Why is my Pacific Access Category Resident Visa application taking longer than the published time?
- The published figures are percentiles of recently decided applications, not a promise. Applications that are incomplete, need verification, or raise health, character or genuineness questions routinely exceed them. If your application is far outside the 80% figure, you can contact INZ or engage a licensed adviser or lawyer to follow up.
Application stuck or complicated?
A licensed adviser or lawyer can review where it is at. Send one enquiry and we will connect you with a licensed professional.
Other residence visas
- Dependent Child Resident Visa
- Global Impact Permanent Residence Visa
- Parent Resident Visa
- Parent Retirement Resident Visa
- Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa
- Permanent Resident Visa
Source: Immigration New Zealand's published processing-time figures. General information, not immigration advice.