This is an independent guide, not an official government website. Visa rules change often; always confirm the latest requirements on the official website before you apply or book.
New Zealand visa for Indian passport holders
Visa required
- Stay allowed
- 9 Months
- Fee
- ₹14,000NZD 246 · Fees may change. Additional costs can apply for biometrics, document handling, or other services where applicable.
- Processing
- 2–4 weeks
- Validity
- Single or multiple entry, as granted by INZ
Last verified .
Indians need a visa for New Zealand, applied for in advance through the embassy or its official visa centre; processing usually takes 2–4 weeks.
One thing worth noting is that Indian passport bearers require a visitor visa before travelling to New Zealand. This analysis shows that It’s important to understand that there is visa on arrival and no NZeTA for Indians. This is actually simple: the visa allows you to stay for Up To 9 Months, New Zealand immigration (INZ) decides the exact decides. The fee is approximately NZD 441 per person (NZD 341 visa fee plus NZD 100 tourism levy) which is roughly ₹22,000. One entity worth noting is that the tax is not refundable, your visa is refused. To break this down, the processing usually lasts 2 weeks or more during the December Vacation Season.February, At Least 6 weeks before your trip.
Looking at this, the application is simple and fully online. Create a RealMe account INZ website, fill in the Visitor Visa form exactly as your passport shows, upload your documents and pay by card. Keep your recommendation (valid 3 Months or more after your departure), bank statements for The Last 6 Months, travelling plan, flight and hotel bookings, and proof of links to India as a letter of employment, facilitating the process of better execution. To clarify, You’ll notice that you should show on NZD 1000 Per Month stop, or NZD 400 per month if your stay is prepaid. After approval, fill in the free NZ Traveller Declaration within 24 hours before you fly. Fees and rules can change, so always check immigration.govt.nz before you apply.
How to apply for a New Zealand visa from India
- Check you need a Visitor Visa: Indian passport holders must get one before travelling.
- Create a RealMe account at immigration.govt.nz (this is your login).
- Start a Visitor Visa application in INZ's online system.
- Fill in every section. Type your name and passport details exactly as in your passport.
- Scan and upload your documents (clear, colour copies).
- Pay the visa fee and tourism levy (IVL) online by card.
- Give biometrics at a VFS centre only if INZ asks you to.
- Wait for a decision. Check your email and the online account for any request for more documents.
- Once approved, download the visa letter and keep a printout.
- Complete the NZ Traveller Declaration (NZTD) online within 24 hours before you fly.
Entry requirements for New Zealand
- Valid Visitor Visa approved before you travel
- Passport valid for at least 3 months after you plan to leave New Zealand
- Enough money: about NZD 1,000 per month of stay, or NZD 400 per month if accommodation is prepaid
- Onward or return ticket, or proof you can buy one
- Proof you will return to India (job, business, family, property)
- Good health and good character (INZ may ask for a medical or police certificate)
- NZ Traveller Declaration completed online before arrival
New Zealand visa document checklist
Choose your profile to see exactly what to carry. Tick items as you collect them, then print or save as PDF.
Embassies can ask for more documents. Always match this list with the official checklist before you apply.
Frequently asked questions
Do Indians need a visa for New Zealand?
Indians need a visa for New Zealand, applied for in advance through the embassy or its official visa centre; processing usually takes 2–4 weeks.
How much is the New Zealand visa fee for Indians?
The total cost is about ₹14,000 per person (official fee NZD 246). Fees may change. Additional costs can apply for biometrics, document handling, or other services where applicable..
How long does a New Zealand visa take for Indians?
Processing usually takes 2–4 weeks. Apply well before your travel date, especially in peak season.
How long can Indians stay in New Zealand?
Up to 9 Months (Single or multiple entry, as granted by INZ).
Is travel insurance mandatory for New Zealand?
It is not listed as mandatory, but medical cover for the whole trip is strongly recommended.
Where do Indians apply for a New Zealand visa?
Apply only on the official website (Immigration New Zealand (INZ)). Avoid unofficial sites that charge extra fees.
Can Indians get a visa on arrival for New Zealand?
No. You must get a Visitor Visa before you travel.
Can I get an NZeTA instead?
No. The NZeTA is only for visa-waiver countries, and India is not one of them.
Do I need to go to a visa centre?
No. You apply online. A VFS centre is used only if INZ asks for biometrics.
Is the levy refunded if my visa is refused?
No. Both the visa fee and the NZD 100 levy are non-refundable.
Do I need a medical test?
Not always. INZ asks if you plan a long stay or have health concerns.
Is the NZ Traveller Declaration the same as a visa?
No. It is a separate online form to fill in within 24 hours before you fly.
Can I work in NZ on a Visitor Visa?
No. Visitors may do limited remote work for an overseas employer, but cannot take local jobs.
When should I apply?
At least 6–8 weeks before travel, and earlier for December–February.
Recent changes
- Page created. Fee set to NZD 441 (visa NZD 341 + levy NZD 100).