What is the difference between a visa and a permit?

If you are making an application from overseas, you are applying for a visa. If you are already in New Zealand when making an application, you are applying for a permit. A visa allows you to travel to New Zealand or return to New Zealand. If you have a single entry visa, you may use it to enter New Zealand only once, while if you have a multiple entry visa, you may enter New Zealand an unlimited number of times during the validity of your visa. A permit gives you permission to be in New Zealand either temporarily as a visitor, student, or worker, or on a permanent basis as a resident. All types of permits expire automatically as soon as you depart New Zealand. If you then wish to return to New Zealand, you must hold some type of a valid visa.

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