How Immigration Fees and Levies Support New Zealand’s Economy and Communities

Immigration plays a big role in helping New Zealand’s economy, workforce, and communities thrive. Most of the funding for New Zealand’s immigration system comes from visa charges. These charges are made up of a fee and a levy.

How Are Visa Charges Set?

Visa charges are set by the New Zealand Government and cover the current costs of running the immigration system. The most recent rates were updated on 1 October 2024.

What Do Visa Charges Cover?

Visa charges are divided into two parts: a fee and a levy.

- The Fee: This covers the costs of assessing and processing each specific type of visa application.

- The Levy: This funds the broader costs of managing the entire immigration system. It supports system maintenance, risk management, and compliance. It also helps with attracting new migrants and assisting them in settling into New Zealand.

The immigration levy also contributes to English language programs for students from migrant backgrounds. In fact, it covers about 80% of the costs for English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) programs in schools. The New Zealand Government funds the remaining 20%.

Special Visa Charges for Applicants from Pacific Countries

Visa fees for applicants from Pacific nations are usually lower than fees for applicants from other countries. This reflects the Government’s commitment to supporting stability and growth in the Pacific region. Additionally, three key visas for Pacific applicants are subsidized:

1. Recognised Seasonal Employer Limited Visa

2. Pacific Access Category Resident Visa

3. Samoan Quota Resident Visa

Not All Visitors to New Zealand Pay Visa Fees

Visa fees aren’t the only consideration for people choosing to come to New Zealand. Many international visitors don’t need a Visitor Visa if they come from a visa-waiver country. However, they still need to get a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA).

The International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)

Most international visitors who apply for a visa or an NZeTA must also pay a non-refundable International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZD$100. This levy helps support New Zealand’s tourism infrastructure and conservation efforts.

The IVL applies to most:

- Visitor visas (except partner and dependent visas)

- NZeTAs

- Student visas (except for dependent children)

- Working Holiday and Work Exchange programs

- Student and Trainee Work visas

- Specific Purpose Work visas

New Zealand’s visa fees and levies are part of a well-rounded approach to supporting the immigration system, the economy, and the community, ensuring that everyone benefits from the country’s vibrant, multicultural environment.

Source: Immigration New Zealand