After the visa: your first 30 days in New Zealand

Five first steps with the official page behind each one. Check each page before you act: rules change.

Checked on 2026-10-01

1. Get your IRD number
Applying for an IRD number as a 'new arrival' saves you from sending the same identification documents to us.
Official source: Inland Revenue (IRD)
Open the page
2. Open a bank account
Some banks allow you to open a bank account from your home country, although this may depend on your visa and when you will arrive. Check with your preferred bank.
You may need an Inland Revenue (IRD) number to open an account.
Official source: Immigration New Zealand
Open the page
3. Choose a phone plan
Mobile phone plans fall into 2 main categories: monthly account and pre-paid plans.
Independent source (not a government page): Consumer NZ
Open the page
4. Keep your insurance proof
You must have full medical insurance for the length of your stay.
Official source: Immigration New Zealand
Open the page
Insurance rule for your passport
5. Find short-term work
If you have a working holiday visa, you can work in short-term, seasonal jobs, in a variety of industries, while travelling around New Zealand.
Official source: Immigration New Zealand
Open the page

These are quotations from the cited pages, not advice. Your situation may differ.

1. Get your IRD number