Increase to visa charges comes into effect from 1 October

9 August 2024

The Government announced today that increases to visa charges, made up of fees and levies, are being introduced on 1 October 2024.

What is changing?

From 1 October, new visa charges will be set at an appropriate level to recover the costs of processing a visa and reflect the benefits received by people using immigration services.

Immigration makes a vital contribution to New Zealand’s economy, workforce and community.

It reunites friends and families, provides employers with access to key skills and capital, contributes to New Zealand’s international and humanitarian commitments, and supports the security and integrity of our border. It is appropriate that those using and benefiting from

the immigration system cover the costs of running it.

Pacific visas

New Zealand’s ongoing commitment to supporting its Pacific neighbours will see the continuation of subsidised fees for visa applicants from Pacific countries.

ESOL programmes

People using the immigration system will now fund 80 percent of costs for English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) programmes in schools. The Government will continue to fund the remaining 20 percent.