Visa Guide

Questions about the visa process for New Zealand? Check our guide to help you out.

Say Hi to NZ with Visa Hacks & Kiwi Facts -- Let's Go!

Visa Vibes

First things first: apply for that visa 2-3 months in advance.

No one likes waiting, but with a little early prep, you’ll be all set! Expect up to 8 weeks for approval, so plan ahead and don’t leave it to the last minute.

Pro tip: apply as soon as your country’s spots open up. The faster you apply, the better!

Before You Apply

Check Your Eligibility

Age Range: typically 18–30 years old; up to 35 for some countries.

Passport: must be from a country with a Working Holiday Scheme agreement with New Zealand.

Health & Character: may require medical or police certificates.

The Application Process

Online Application

Website: immigration.govt.nz

Account Setup: create a RealMe login.

Application: complete the form accurately and upload required documents.

Payment: pay visa fee and IVL online.

Processing: wait for approval (up to 8 weeks)

Timing Is Everything

Apply Early: 2–3 months before your planned departure.

Processing Time: up to 8 weeks.

Quota Openings: some countries have limited spots; apply as soon as applications open.

International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)

Amount: NZD $100

Purpose: supports tourism infrastructure and conservation efforts.

Payment: paid during visa application; non-refundable.

Show Me The Money!

As part of being eligible for a holiday working visa, you will be required to show proof of funds of a minimum of $4,200.

You’ll need a bank statement in your name from the previous month.

Travel Insurance

Don’t skip this one! Get yourself some solid travel insurance that covers you for everything from epic adventures to the unexpected.

Trust us, you’ll be glad you did.

Additional Potential Costs

Medical Examination: NZD $100–$500 (if required, subject to visa being more than 1 year)

Police Certificate: NZD $10–$100 (if required).

Passport-style Photo: NZD $10–$30.

Visa Costs

Varies by Country, for example:

United Kingdom: NZD $840

Canada: NZD $770

Germany: NZD $770

Argentina: NZD $455

Payment: Visa or MasterCard only

Fees are non-refundable.

Helpful links: New Zealand, Immigration New Zealand

✈️ After Approval – Preparation Checklist

Print and save a digital copy of your visa

Bring your home country's tax identification number (Social Security Number, National Insurance Number).

Keep travel insurance details accessible.

Prepare emergency contact information.

Have your flight details ready.

Have a printout of your boarding passes to stay on the safe side.

⚠ What Could Possibly Go Wrong? ⚠ 

Late application → miss your travel window.

Insufficient funds → visa may be declined at the border.

No insurance → you may be denied entry.

Not checking country-specific rules → each country has different caps/conditions.

Biosecurity Reminder: Declare or Risk Fines!

New Zealand has very strict border rules.

Before you land, you must fill out a Passenger Arrival Card which includes Disclosure of Goods.

If you're bringing these items into New Zealand you must declare them - even if you're not sure.

• Food or snacks (yes, even sealed ones)
• Hiking boots or camping gear
• Natural products (wood, seeds, shells, animal items)

Failure to do so can result in hefty fines ($400 NZD+ on the spot) or worse.

Click here to complete your form and find the deets on all things declaration!