If you are planning to visit, study, or work in New Zealand in 2026, understanding New Zealand Visa Fees is very important. Many people delay their travel plans because they are unsure about visa costs. Some even apply without full knowledge and later face unexpected expenses. This article is written to help you clearly understand New Zealand Visa Fees, so you can plan your budget with confidence.
In this guide, we will explain visitor visa fees, student visa fees, work visa fees, and NZeTA costs. We will also cover extra charges that many applicants do not expect. Everything is explained in simple English so that anyone can understand it easily.
New Zealand Visa Fees are the official charges paid to the New Zealand immigration department for processing your visa application. These fees help cover background checks, document verification, and application processing.
The amount of New Zealand Visa Fees depends on:
Most New Zealand Visa Fees are non-refundable. This means if your visa is rejected, the fee will not be returned. That is why it is very important to apply carefully.
A visitor visa is for tourism, visiting family or friends, or attending short business meetings. This is the most common visa type.
In 2026, New Zealand Visa Fees for a visitor visa usually range between NZD 211 and NZD 246. This amount generally includes:
The IVL is used to protect New Zealand’s natural environment and tourist infrastructure. It is compulsory and included in most New Zealand Visa Fees.
If you are from a visa-waiver country, you may not need a visitor visa. Instead, you can Submit NZeTA Online, which is a faster option. However, many nationalities, including Indian citizens, must apply for a visitor visa and pay full New Zealand Visa Fees.
The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) is required for travelers from visa-waiver countries. It is not a visa, but permission to travel.
When you Submit NZeTA Online, you must pay:
The total cost usually ranges between NZD 23 and NZD 52, depending on whether you apply through the mobile app or website.
Compared to regular New Zealand Visa Fees, NZeTA fees are lower and processing is much faster. If you are eligible, it is always better to Submit NZeTA Online.
If you plan to study in New Zealand for more than three months, you need a student visa. This visa also allows limited part-time work.
In 2026, New Zealand Visa Fees for a student visa are around NZD 430. This fee covers application assessment and processing.
Apart from official New Zealand Visa Fees, students may also need to pay for:
These costs are not part of New Zealand Visa Fees, but they are required for visa approval.
A work visa allows you to work legally in New Zealand. There are many types of work visas, such as employer-sponsored visas and open work visas.
The New Zealand Visa Fees for work visas usually start from NZD 540 and can increase depending on the visa category. Work visa fees are higher because the process includes employer checks and skill verification.
When calculating total New Zealand Visa Fees, applicants should also consider:
If you plan to live in New Zealand permanently, you will need a resident visa. These visas have higher New Zealand Visa Fees due to detailed background checks.
Resident visa New Zealand Visa Fees can range from NZD 3,000 to NZD 5,000 or more. These fees are usually paid in stages.
Many applicants think New Zealand Visa Fees are the only cost, but that is not true. You may also need to pay for:
These are not official New Zealand Visa Fees, but they affect your total budget.
All New Zealand Visa Fees must be paid online using:
When you Submit NZeTA Online, payment is made at the final step. Always keep a copy of your payment receipt for future reference.
Never pay New Zealand Visa Fees through unofficial websites, as this can lead to fraud.
To avoid wasting your New Zealand Visa Fees:
Mistakes can lead to rejection, and New Zealand Visa Fees are not refunded.
Understanding New Zealand Visa Fees helps you plan your journey without stress. Whether you are applying for a visitor visa, student visa, work visa, or planning to Submit NZeTA Online, knowing the correct fees saves time and money.
Always check the latest updates before applying, prepare documents carefully, and apply with confidence. With proper planning, your New Zealand dream can become a smooth reality.