New Zealand visa charges increasing: Effective October 1 2024

Contents: 

• New Visa Charges
• Key details
  

The New Zealand Government has revealed that from 1 October 2024, most visa charges will increase. Many of these increases are significant.

Immigration NZ says this update aims to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of the immigration system, making it self-funding and more beneficial for users.

We understand that this change may come as a shock to many, and we want to assure our customers that we’re here to support you as you navigate visa and immigration changes.

New visa charges

From 1 October, most visa charges will increase.

Why are these changes necessary?

The new visa charges will be set at levels that cover the costs of processing visas, but it’s more than that. Immigration minister Erica Stanford explains:

"The new charges reflect the costs associated with visa processing, assessing and managing more high-risk applications, and increased compliance costs as we deal with higher levels of migrant exploitation, managing more asylum claims, and maintaining and upgrading Immigration New Zealand's ICT systems."

The government also says this is a move towards creating a sustainable immigration system, which ensures that those using and benefitting from the immigration system contribute more to the cost of running it.

Key details

New visa charges overview

Detailed information on the new visa charges will be available in INZ’s Immigration Fee and Levy Table, set to take effect from 1 October 2024.

Here’s a summary of the changes:

*except where not available 

For more details, visit Immigration NZ

Support for Pacific Nations 

In line with New Zealand's commitment to its Pacific neighbours, the new policy will maintain subsidised fees for visa applicants from Pacific countries, ensuring continued support for these communities. Some will still see fee increases, but these are not as significant as the rest of the world.

Recognised Seasonal Employer, Pacific Access Category, and Samoan Quota visas will not see increased charges.

Funding for ESOL programmes

Individuals utilising the immigration system will now be responsible for funding 80% of the costs associated with English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) programs in schools, while the Government will continue to fund the remaining 20%. This change aims to support better integration of immigrants into New Zealand society.

Immigration is still very important in New Zealand

Immigration plays a crucial role in New Zealand’s economy and communities. It facilitates the reunification of families, provides essential skills and capital for employers, and fulfils New Zealand’s international and humanitarian commitments.  

The changes are being made to balance the costs of visa and immigration processing. However, we understand that the changes are significant and many may find them restrictive. 

Individuals and families seeking to navigate the immigration process should stay informed about these changes and plan accordingly.

For further information on the new visa costs and related policies, please refer to the official announcement on the NZ Immigration site.

For expert immigration or visa advice and guidance, please contact us directly.