How Indian passport holders get a visa for New Zealand: visa type, government fee, processing time, maximum stay, the documents required and where to apply. Government-sourced — always verify on the official site before you travel.
Quick facts
- Visa type: Visitor visa — apply online (NZeTA is NOT for Indians)
- Government fee: NZD 341 (~₹17,000) Visitor Visa fee + NZD 100 (~₹5,000) International Visitor Levy (IVL). Total NZD 441 (~₹22,000), non-refundable.
- Processing time: Aim for ~20 working days from a complete application; many decisions in 3 weeks. 80% of applications cleared within 3 weeks. Apply 4–6 weeks before travel.
- Maximum stay: Up to 9 months per entry within an 18-month period; multi-entry visitor visas can be valid up to 3 years for repeat travellers.
- Interview: Not required
- Ease for Indian travellers: 50/100
Documents you'll need
- Passport 3+ months beyond intended departure date
- Recent digital photograph
- Proof of funds (NZD 1,000/month or NZD 400/month if accommodation is pre-paid)
- Confirmed return/onward ticket
- Travel itinerary and hotel bookings
- Employer NOC / business proof
- Sponsor letter if visiting family
How & where to apply
Apply online via the Immigration New Zealand portal (RealMe account). No NZeTA option for Indian nationals — that is only for visa-waiver country citizens. Immigration NZ — Visitor visa (official)
Transit & connections
Indians need a Transit Visa (free) for transiting through Auckland (AKL) or Christchurch (CHC) even airside, unless the trip qualifies under specific airline exemptions.
Good to know
NZeTA is NOT available to Indian nationals — Indians must apply for the full Visitor visa. The IVL (NZD 100) is bundled into the application. Once granted, the visa often allows multiple entries over 3 years (case-officer discretion). Visa rules change often — confirm on the official government source: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/process-to-apply/applying-for-a-visa/fees-processing-times-and-refunds/fees-decision-times-and-where-to-apply/
Frequently asked questions
Do Indians need a visa for New Zealand?
Visitor visa — apply online (NZeTA is NOT for Indians). NZeTA is NOT available to Indian nationals — Indians must apply for the full Visitor visa. The IVL (NZD 100) is bundled into the application. Once granted, the visa often allows multiple entries over 3 years (case-officer discretion).
What documents do Indians need for a New Zealand visa?
Passport 3+ months beyond intended departure date; Recent digital photograph; Proof of funds (NZD 1,000/month or NZD 400/month if accommodation is pre-paid); Confirmed return/onward ticket; Travel itinerary and hotel bookings; Employer NOC / business proof; Sponsor letter if visiting family
How long does a New Zealand visa take and what does it cost?
Processing: Aim for ~20 working days from a complete application; many decisions in 3 weeks. 80% of applications cleared within 3 weeks. Apply 4–6 weeks before travel.. Government fee: NZD 341 (~₹17,000) Visitor Visa fee + NZD 100 (~₹5,000) International Visitor Levy (IVL). Total NZD 441 (~₹22,000), non-refundable.. Maximum stay: Up to 9 months per entry within an 18-month period; multi-entry visitor visas can be valid up to 3 years for repeat travellers..
How do Indians apply for a New Zealand visa?
Apply online via the Immigration New Zealand portal (RealMe account). No NZeTA option for Indian nationals — that is only for visa-waiver country citizens. Official source: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/process-to-apply/applying-for-a-visa/fees-processing-times-and-refunds/fees-decision-times-and-where-to-apply/