By mid-September, the Cook Islands will launch an online electronic visa and permit application system in a bid to simplify its travel formalities.
In a strategic move that reflects both a desire to modernise and an ambition to boost its tourism economy, the Cook Islands is set to take a crucial step forward with the upcoming introduction of an online visa and permit application system.
The small Pacific nation, renowned for its white-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons and unspoilt paradise atmosphere, will be equipped by mid-September 2024 with a tool that could transform the way long-stay travelers access its natural gems.
The Cook Islands’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently announced that the new online visa and permit application system is an “initiative to modernise immigration services and customers will see a gradual shift from the current manual process to online applications”.
According to officials, the change will significantly reduce the need for stakeholders and customers to request an in-office appointment with an immigration officer.
An e-Visa in the Cook Islands to “enhance the user experience”
“The inevitable shift to an online platform will enhance the user experience and convenience for submitting both sponsorship and visa applications,” said Principal Immigration Officer, Chere Arthur.
“In addition to the streamlined application process, there is a user-friendly dashboard where applicants can monitor their pending applications, download visa approvals, receipts, and invoices,” the immigration chief added.
The Cook Islands Immigration Service is currently carrying out internal tests with its agents, giving them an overall presentation of the new system and gathering their feedback and suggestions to contribute to the final improvement of the system.
The Cook Islands, a visa-free destination for short-stay tourists
One of the attractive features of the Cook Islands is its visa-free policy.
Visitors from all over the world do not need a visa to enter the Cook Islands for tourist stays of up to 31 days.
This exemption makes the destination particularly accessible and simplifies travel arrangements. Upon arrival, visitors are granted a one-month free entry permit, allowing them to explore the archipelago freely during this period.
For visitors who wish to extend their stay beyond 31 days, the Cook Islands authorities allow visa extensions. An extension of stay can be requested by submitting an application to the archipelago’s immigration department. Each extension is generally granted for an additional period of 31 days, with a maximum limit of 6 months for non-resident visitors.
It is advisable to start this process before the expiry of the first month’s authorization, to avoid complications or penalties. The extension request requires the payment of a fee of NZ$470.00 and the provision of certain documents, such as a form, a valid exit ticket and proof of sufficient funds for the extended duration of stay.
