Planning a trip to New Zealand and confused about the NZeTA cost? The total amount can include the NZeTA government fee, the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL), and, when using a private application service, an additional service fee.
This nzeta cost breakdown explains what you may pay in 2026, what the IVL covers, and which extra charges you should check before submitting your application.
NZeTA Cost Breakdown in 2026
The official NZeTA charge depends on how you apply. Immigration New Zealand currently lists:
- NZD $17 when requesting an NZeTA through the official mobile app
- NZD $23 when requesting an NZeTA through the official website
- NZD $100 IVL for most international visitors entering New Zealand
The NZeTA fee and IVL are normally paid together when you request your NZeTA.
This means a typical traveller who applies directly through the official channels may pay:
| Application method | NZeTA fee | IVL | Government charges |
| Official mobile app | NZD $17 | NZD $100 | NZD $117 |
| Official website | NZD $23 | NZD $100 | NZD $123 |
The exact amount can vary depending on whether the traveller is required to pay the IVL.
What Is the NZeTA Government Fee?
The NZeTA is a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority for eligible travellers who do not normally need to apply for a visitor visa before travelling.
For most eligible travellers, the official NZeTA costs NZD $17 through the mobile app or NZD $23 through the website. Immigration New Zealand advises travellers to allow up to 72 hours for processing.
The NZeTA is generally valid for two years for travellers and allows multiple trips during its validity period, subject to New Zealand's entry and stay requirements.
Example: A traveller from the USA
Suppose a US citizen is visiting New Zealand for a holiday and is eligible for an NZeTA.
If they apply directly using the official app:
- NZeTA: NZD $17
- IVL: NZD $100
- Total: NZD $117
If they use the official website instead:
- NZeTA: NZD $23
- IVL: NZD $100
- Total: NZD $123
The difference comes from the official application channel, not from a different type of NZeTA.
What Is the NZD $100 IVL?
The International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy, commonly called the IVL, is an additional charge paid by many international visitors travelling to New Zealand.
The current IVL is NZD $100. Immigration New Zealand says it helps fund tourism infrastructure and supports conservation and environmental protection.
For travellers who need both an NZeTA and the IVL, the levy is paid during the NZeTA request.
Is the IVL paid by everyone?
No. The IVL depends on factors such as your passport, travel purpose and immigration status.
For example, Australian permanent residents are generally exempt from the IVL when requesting an NZeTA, although they may still need an NZeTA.
Therefore, you should check your individual circumstances before assuming that every traveller will pay the NZD $100 levy.
Are There Hidden NZeTA Charges?
The official NZeTA charges are relatively straightforward, but travellers can see a higher total if they use a private application service.
A private service may charge a service or processing fee for application assistance, document review, customer support or submission help. That fee is separate from the New Zealand Government's NZeTA charge and IVL.
For example, NZeTA-Visa.org states that it is a private, independent online service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Immigration New Zealand or the New Zealand Government. Its terms explain that its service fee is additional to applicable government charges and the IVL.
This distinction is important when comparing prices online.
What should you check before paying?
Before submitting your application, check whether the displayed price includes:
- Official NZeTA government fee
- NZD $100 IVL, if applicable
- Private service or processing fee
- Any selected expedited processing fee
- Payment-related charges, if applicable
- Refund and cancellation conditions
A low advertised starting price may not represent the final amount you pay at checkout.
NZeTA Standard, Emergency and Rush Processing
Some private application services offer different processing options.
For example, NZeTA-Visa.org currently lists Standard, Emergency and Rush options and states that its displayed prices include the government charge, IVL where applicable, and its service fee.
However, travellers should understand that a private service cannot change Immigration New Zealand's official processing decision.
Immigration New Zealand says NZeTA requests should generally be allowed up to 72 hours for processing.
So, if you see a private service advertising faster processing, check exactly what the faster service covers and whether it is a private handling timeframe rather than an official government guarantee.
NZeTA Cost vs New Zealand Visitor Visa Cost
An NZeTA is not the same as a New Zealand Visitor Visa.
If your nationality, travel plans or circumstances mean you need a Visitor Visa instead, you should follow the applicable visa process rather than applying for an NZeTA.
You can learn more about the NZeTA process through the online NZeTA application page or review the New Zealand tourist visa information before deciding which travel authorisation applies to you.
The correct option depends on factors such as your passport, purpose of travel and how you are entering New Zealand. Immigration New Zealand confirms that NZeTA eligibility depends on nationality, travel method and travel circumstances.
Are NZeTA Fees Refundable?
Generally, you should treat the NZeTA fee and IVL as non-refundable.
Immigration New Zealand states that the NZeTA fee and IVL are normally not refunded if an NZeTA request is refused, the traveller decides not to travel, or incorrect information means a new request is needed.
This makes it especially important to check your passport information before payment.
Pay close attention to:
- Full name
- Passport number
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Passport expiry date
- Travel details
Incorrect passport information can cause problems when you travel.
How to Avoid Unexpected NZeTA Costs
Use this simple checklist before paying:
- Check the official government fee: Know whether you are applying through the app or website.
- Check the IVL: Confirm whether the NZD $100 levy applies to you.
- Review private service charges: If using an application service, understand what its fee covers.
- Check processing options: Do not select expedited service unless you actually need it.
- Review the final checkout price: Make sure you understand the complete amount before payment.
- Check refund terms: Government and service-provider refund rules can differ.
- Verify your details: Errors can result in another application and additional costs.
NZeTA Cost Breakdown: Quick Summary
For most eligible visitors who apply directly, the current government charges are easy to understand:
Official app: NZD $17 NZeTA + NZD $100 IVL = NZD $117
Official website: NZD $23 NZeTA + NZD $100 IVL = NZD $123
However, your total may be higher when you choose a private application service because a separate service fee may apply. Always check the final price and what is included before payment.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does an NZeTA cost in 2026?
The official NZeTA costs NZD $17 through the mobile app or NZD $23 through the official website. Most eligible visitors must also pay the NZD $100 IVL.
2. Is the IVL included in the NZeTA fee?
No. The IVL is a separate levy, although it is normally paid during the same transaction as the NZeTA request. The current IVL is NZD $100 for most visitors who are required to pay it.
3. Can I pay more than the official NZeTA price?
Yes. If you use a private application service, you may pay an additional service or processing fee. Check whether the advertised price includes government charges, IVL and service fees.
4. Is the NZeTA fee refundable?
Generally, no. Immigration New Zealand states that NZeTA fees and the IVL are normally non-refundable, including in several situations where an application is refused or travel plans change.
Apply for Your NZeTA
Ready to prepare your New Zealand travel authorisation? Review the total charges, check your passport details carefully, and choose the application option that suits your travel plans.
Apply now through the NZeTA application service and review the complete price before submitting your application.
