The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration (MFAI) advises that the Cook Islands Immigration Amendment Regulations 2026 has been approved and is now in force. The amendments make changes to visitor, worker and dependent visa and permit arrangements under the Cook Islands Immigration Regulations 2023.
A key change extends the visitor permit arrangements previously only available to New Zealand citizens to include Australian citizens. Australian citizens travelling on an Australian passport are now eligible for a visitor permit on arrival, allowing a stay of up to 90 days.
The amendments also reduce the cost of extending a visitor visa and permit for New Zealand and Australian citizens. The application fee for a New Zealand & Australian visitor visa and permit, is reduced from $470 to $235. For visitors of all other nationalities, the fee for a 31-day extension is reduced from $470 to $115.
For workers and families, Government and International Worker visas and permits may now be issued for one, two or three years. The validity of Special Spouse and International Child visas and permits will also align with that of the principal visa and permit holder.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, Hon. Tingika Elikana said, “These changes make it simpler and more affordable to visit, work and stay in the Cook Islands. Bringing Australia in line with New Zealand visitors recognises the importance of both markets to our tourism sector, while giving flexible permit options to employers and workers.”
Changes at a glance
- Australian citizens will receive a 90 day stay upon arrival.
- The fee for a NZ & AU visa and permit (90 Days) is reduced from $470 to $235.
- The fee for an International visitor visa and permit (31 Days) is reduced from $470 to $115.
- Government Worker and International Worker visa and permits are formally available for one, two or three years.
These amendments support a more flexible and responsive immigration framework that facilitates tourism, supports employers, and maintains the integrity of the Cook Islands immigration system.
Employers, sponsors, workers, visitors and families are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the changes. Updated information and fee schedules are available on the MFAI website mfai.gov.ck/immigration/.