Visas — New Zealand
Up-to-date visa requirements and information for travelling to New Zealand.
Visitor Visa
New Zealand Visitor Visa for Russian citizens and CIS countries Citizens of Russia and most CIS countries need a Visitor Visa for a tourist trip to New Zealand. Requirements may vary depending on citizenship and passport type, so it is recommended to check current conditions on the official Immigration New Zealand (INZ) website before traveling. Visitor Visa allows you to visit New Zealand for tourism purposes, visit relatives and friends, as well as study on short-term courses lasting up to 3 months. For some categories of Visitor Visa, stays of up to 9 months within an 18-month period are possible. The specific length of stay is determined by the conditions of the issued visa. You can apply online through Immigration New Zealand. Visitor Visa cost: from NZ$441. Most foreign visitors are also charged the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) - NZ$100. Application processing times may vary. According to current Immigration New Zealand statistics, approximately 80% of Visitor Visa applications are processed within 2 weeks. It is recommended to check current processing times on the INZ website before submitting your application. You will need: - a valid passport that must be valid for at least 3 months after the date you plan to leave New Zealand; - proof of sufficient financial means, usually at least NZ$1,000 per person per month; - if accommodation is already paid for - NZ$400 per person per month is sufficient; - a ticket out of New Zealand or proof of funds to purchase one; - documents confirming the purpose and circumstances of your trip; - if necessary - proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, and other documents confirming your intentions as a tourist. Travel medical insurance is not a mandatory requirement for a standard Visitor Visa in all cases; however, Immigration New Zealand recommends having comprehensive medical insurance for the duration of your stay. Important: the applicant must convince Immigration New Zealand that they are genuinely coming as a tourist and intend to leave New Zealand after the permitted stay expires.
Working Holiday Visa
New Zealand offers a Working Holiday Visa for citizens of eligible countries. The visa is valid for 12 months and allows the holder to work and travel freely. Applicants must be aged 18-30 (or 18-35 for some nationalities), hold a valid passport, and have sufficient funds (approx. NZD 4,200). Applications are submitted online and are subject to annual quotas. Check the INZ website for the current list of participating countries and availability.
Student Visa
If you wish to study in New Zealand for longer than 3 months, you need a Student Visa. You must have an offer of place from an NZQA-accredited institution. The visa fee is NZD 375. You will need proof of tuition fee payment, financial evidence, travel insurance, and a medical certificate if required. Student visa holders may work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays.
NZeTA (Electronic Travel Authority)
Citizens of visa-waiver countries (USA, UK, EU and others) do not need a full visa but must obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before arrival. It is linked to your passport and costs NZD 17 via the app or NZD 23 online. Valid for 2 years or until your passport expires. Important: Russian and most CIS citizens are NOT eligible for NZeTA and must apply for a Visitor Visa instead.
International Visitor Levy (IVL)
All visitors to New Zealand (except Australian citizens and permanent residents) must pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZD 35. It is paid at the time of applying for a visa or NZeTA. The IVL funds conservation projects and tourism infrastructure across New Zealand.
Official Resources
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