Visitor Visa
For people who want to visit New Zealand for tourism, to see family or friends, or for short business trips.
The Visitor Visa is a New Zealand visitor & short stay visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~NZ$441 online plus NZ$100 International Visitor Levy) and processing time (~3-8 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Visitor Visa is for
For people who want to visit New Zealand for tourism, to see family or friends, or for short business trips.
No direct path to residence; visitors may later apply for work, study or family visas.
Visitor Visa - eligibility criteria
- Hold a passport valid for at least 3 months beyond departure
- Show genuine intention to visit temporarily
- Have enough funds (about NZ$1,000 per month, or NZ$400 with paid accommodation)
- Hold an onward or return ticket or funds to buy one
- Meet health and character requirements
Visitor Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Visitor Visa (New Zealand) is ~NZ$441 online plus NZ$100 International Visitor Levy, with an indicative processing time of ~3-8 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Immigration New Zealand.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online, from outside or inside New Zealand |
| Length of stay | Up to 9 months in an 18-month period |
| Work rights | No work allowed (limited business activities only) |
| Study rights | Study up to 3 months allowed |
| Government fee | ~NZ$441 online plus NZ$100 International Visitor Levy |
| Processing time | ~3-8 weeks |
| Route to PR | No direct path to residence; visitors may later apply for work, study or family visas. |
Pathway & next steps
No direct path to residence; visitors may later apply for work, study or family visas.
Many applicants also compare NZeTA · New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA), Working Holiday · Working Holiday Visa, PGV · Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa. Run a free VisaChief check to see which New Zealand route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Visitor Visa pitfalls we fix
Visitor Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Visitor Visa cost?
The Visitor Visa government fee is ~NZ$441 online plus NZ$100 International Visitor Levy. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Immigration New Zealand before applying.
How long does the Visitor Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~3-8 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Visitor Visa lead to permanent residence?
No direct path to residence; visitors may later apply for work, study or family visas.
Can I work on the Visitor Visa?
Work rights: No work allowed (limited business activities only).
Who can apply for the Visitor Visa?
For people who want to visit New Zealand for tourism, to see family or friends, or for short business trips.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official New Zealand government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Immigration New Zealand - official New Zealand immigration authority