Visa & Permit Factsheet

Information for Visa and Permit Holders

Effective from 1 August 2024

What is a Visa?

A visa is an official document issued to individuals who do not have continuing rights in the Cook Islands (e.g., non-Cook Islanders or those without Cook Islands Permanent Residency). A visa allows them to travel to and enter the Cook Islands.

What is a Permit?

A permit allows the visa holder to stay in the Cook Islands for a specific duration, as approved in their visa.

Key Changes to Visa and Permit Process

Previous Process (pre-April 2023):

Approved permit holders received an Authority to Travel letter (ATT) for their initial arrival.
Once the permit was endorsed in the passport, travellers could re-enter the Cook Islands without presenting the ATT again.

Current Process (effective April 2023):

All individuals without continuing rights must hold both a valid visa and permit for travel, entry, and stay in the Cook Islands.
Applicants are notified via email upon approval and must present their visa when requested by airline or immigration officials.
The visa specifies whether unlimited or single travel is permitted.

Why Do I Need to Show My Visa?

Verification of Approval: A visa demonstrates that you have been granted approval to travel to and enter the Cook Islands.
Essential Details Provided by the Visa: Includes passport details, visa type, expiry date, and travel permissions.
Information Provided by the Permit: Includes permit number, expiry date, employment status, and approved duration of stay.
Why a Permit Alone Is Insufficient: A permit does not provide comprehensive travel authorisation details, which is why both documents are required.

Implementation and Enforcement

The new visa and permit process has been in effect since May 2023. Applicants, or authorised representatives, have been informed of these requirements through email and verbal communication. Following a 12-month grace period, the requirement to present a valid visa for travel and entry is now enforced.