Inshorts: Key Points for NZ–India Stopovers
Transit visas may be required depending on your layover duration, airport, and the documents required for your journey.
Transit passengers who remain within the designated transit area and do not cross immigration controls do not need a transit visa.
If you need to exit the transit area and go through customs or require immigration clearance, you will require a transit visa.
For transit passengers, most Indian airports allow transit without a visa for short layovers under certain conditions, provided you stay within the transit area and do not cross immigration controls.
A transit visa allows a stay in India for up to 72 hours for each entry and is valid for 15 days from the arrival date or date of issue.
Indian citizens, New Zealand passport holders, and students must check specific requirements, including personal particulars and any medical treatment needs.
Unaccompanied minors have extra documentation for transit.
Transit visas can be applied for through an online application or at airport visa counters, using the official e visa facility.
Knowing the stopover rules, including visa fee payment processes and the need for a valid ticket, saves time, hassle, and last‑minute stress.
Transit Visa Rules for Common NZ–India Stopovers
Traveling from New Zealand to India often involves layovers in major international airports. While booking flights is easy, knowing the India stopover visa rules is important. If you plan to visit India or stay longer than a short layover, you should apply for the appropriate visa, such as a regular visa, instead of a transit visa. Understanding these rules can help families, students, and working professionals avoid delays, denied boarding, or confusion at the airport.
For the most up-to-date visa information, always consult the official India website and ensure your application form is complete before submission.
Do I Need a Transit Visa for India?
Many travelers are unsure if they need a visa during a short stopover. The answer depends on your nationality, airport, layover duration, and the destination country. Here’s what you should know:
Indian citizens holding an Indian passport do not need a transit visa if returning home.
New Zealand passport holders may require a transit visa for India layovers longer than 24 hours.
If you plan to leave the airport or change terminals, a transit visa might be mandatory. International transit passengers who remain within the transit area and do not cross immigration controls do not need a transit visa.
Short layovers under 24 hours within the same terminal usually do not require a visa. However, if you need to change from the International Terminal to the Domestic Terminal or spend the night in a hotel before your onward journey or connecting flight, you will need a transit visa.
Check Auckland airport transit visa rules if flying via India or if you are an Australian citizen transiting through India.
Ensure you have a valid passport or new passport with at least six months’ validity from the arrival date.
Make sure your passport details and personal particulars are accurate on the application online.
Keep in mind the expiry date of your passport and visa to avoid issues with immigration officers.
Transit Visa Requirements India & Visa Application for Transit Passengers
Before you travel, knowing the transit visa requirements India can save time and stress at the airport. Proper documentation is key to smooth travel and understanding visa requirements for Kiwi travellers to India is essential.
Required documents for a transit visa application include a valid passport (with at least two blank pages and six months’ validity), confirmed travel ticket, proof of sufficient funds such as a bank statement, passport details, recent professional photos against a white background, and any necessary invitation letter or objection certificate.
Submit a completed and signed application form online through the official e visa portal, uploading all required documents and paying the visa fee.
The visa fee payment is generally USD 80, payable online during application.
Biometric enrolment is mandatory for transit visas and remains valid for 5 years.
Provide proof of funds and, if applicable, invitation letters or objection certificates.
Processing time for New Zealand passport holders is 4–6 working days; applications go to the Indian Mission (High Commission or Consulate General in Auckland).
Use only the official Government of India website and e visa portal; keep your application ID for tracking and communication via e mail.
Ensure compliance with specific requirements if you have a new or separate passport, foreign passport, dual nationality, or are an international travel document holder.
Business or employment visa applicants must meet Indian tax compliance regulations.
New Zealand passport holders can apply for the transit visa online.
Stopover Visa India Guide for New Zealand Travelers
If you are flying from New Zealand, understanding the stopover visa India guide is key for a smooth trip. New Zealand citizens can apply online for a New Zealand visa, including the e-Tourist Visa (eTV) which allows a stay of up to 30 days and is valid for 1 year. Apply for eTV at least 4 days before arrival and carry the printed Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) received via email for entry at designated airports or ports.
Key points to know:
Major airports like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore have transit counters.
If connecting flights are within 12–24 hours, visas are often waived.
Travelers from eligible countries, including New Zealand, can apply for a visa waiver or visitor visa.
The maximum period of stay allowed under each visa type varies, so always check the specific visa conditions to ensure compliance.
Unaccompanied minors traveling from New Zealand to India require letters of consent and travel insurance.
Ensure your airline is informed of your transit visa status to avoid boarding issues.
Familiarize yourself with the New Zealand traveller declaration and Zealand traveller declaration requirements before departure.
Practical Tips for Transit Visa Layovers
Layovers can be tiring, but planning ahead makes them comfortable and safe. Here are some practical tips to follow during your stopover.
If you are transiting through an Indian airport or Indian port and do not leave the transit area, you do not need a visa for direct transit.
If your onward journey involves a connecting flight and you need to leave the airport or spend the night in a hotel near the airport before your next flight, you will need a transit visa.
A transit visa is only valid for direct transit and cannot be used for any other purpose. The maximum stay allowed is 72 hours.
Participation in a short term yoga programme or similar activities during your layover may require a different visa type, such as a tourist or student visa.
Avoid leaving the airport unless necessary and check if India airport transit rules 2026 allow it.
Carry snacks, water, and essentials for long layovers.
Plan in advance to take advantage of last‑minute flight offers from NZ to India.
Check visa validity and updates for transit visa NZ Indians 2026.
Keep airline and airport contact info handy in case of sudden changes.
Always select arrival date carefully when submitting your application to avoid errors.
FAQs: NZ–India Transit Visa
Do I need a transit visa for India on short layovers?
Usually not needed for stays under 24 hours within the same terminal. A transit visa is required if entering India or layover exceeds 24 hours, allowing up to 72 hours stay. A new visa is needed if transit exceeds its validity.
How to get a transit visa for India on NZ flights?
Apply online or through Indian consulates before departure. You must submit an online visa application form, a valid passport (with at least six months’ validity and two blank pages), and proof of onward travel. Processing time for an India transit visa is usually 2-5 working days.
Do NZ passport holders need a stopover visa in India?
Only for layovers over 24 hours or when leaving the airport. A valid visa and valid passport are required to enter India.
What documents are required for India airport transit?
Passport, onward ticket, confirmed NZ to India flights, and transit visa if applicable. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of travel and that you have a valid visa.
What do I need to visit India for tourism, business, or if I am of Indian origin?
To visit India for tourism, business, or other purposes, you must have a valid visa and a valid passport. Travelers of Indian origin may be eligible for special visa categories, such as Entry Visa, which have fewer restrictions.
Can I study Indian systems like yoga or Vedic culture in India?
Yes, but you may need a specific visa for studying Indian systems such as yoga, Vedic culture, music, dance, or Buddhist studies. Check the requirements for the appropriate visa category before you travel.
