From glowworm caves and Māori culture to Auckland’s harbours, Wellington’s arts scene and Queenstown’s mountains, New Zealand is worth the admin. South African passport holders need a visa before travelling, but most Visitor Visa applications can be completed online. This guide explains how to apply for a New Zealand visa, which documents you may need and what to check before you travel.
Important: Visa rules, costs and processing times can change. Always confirm the latest requirements with Immigration New Zealand before applying or booking non-refundable travel.
Do South Africans need a visa for New Zealand?
Yes. South African passport holders must obtain the appropriate visa before travelling to New Zealand. For holidays, visiting family or other short stays, this will usually be a Visitor Visa.
A Visitor Visa may allow you to:
- holiday in New Zealand
- visit friends or family
- study for up to three months
- include your partner and dependent children aged 19 or younger in your application
You cannot take up employment in New Zealand on a Visitor Visa. Different conditions may apply to remote work performed for an overseas employer or client, so check the latest remote-working rules before travelling.
Travelling for meetings, negotiations or a conference? Check whether you need a Business Visitor Visa instead.
How long can you stay in New Zealand on a Visitor Visa?
The permitted stay depends on the visa Immigration New Zealand grants you.
- A multiple-entry Visitor Visa may allow stays totalling up to six months in a 12-month period.
- A single-entry Visitor Visa may allow one stay of up to nine months in an 18-month period.
Your eVisa will show your exact travel conditions, entry permissions and expiry date. Leaving New Zealand may cause a single-entry visa to expire, even if time remains on it.
New Zealand Visitor Visa requirements
Immigration New Zealand assesses every application individually. You will generally need to show that:
- you are a genuine visitor
- you are in good health and of good character
- you have enough money for your stay or an acceptable sponsor
- you can leave New Zealand at the end of your visit
- your reason for travelling matches the visa you selected
Documents you may need
Prepare clear digital copies of the documents relevant to your application. These may include:
- your valid passport
- an acceptable visa photograph
- recent bank or credit card statements
- proof of prepaid accommodation, where applicable
- your travel plans or itinerary
- proof of a return or onward flight, or enough money to purchase one
- evidence of employment, studies, family responsibilities or other ties to South Africa
- accommodation details or an invitation from your host
- a completed sponsorship form and supporting evidence, if someone is sponsoring you
- marriage or birth certificates if your partner or dependent children are included
- English translations of documents issued in another language
Your passport should remain valid for at least three months after the date you intend to leave New Zealand.
Immigration New Zealand may also request a medical examination, chest X-ray or police certificate, depending on your age, intended length of stay, health history and personal circumstances. Do not arrange these unnecessarily. Follow the instructions provided during or after your application.
How much money do you need for a New Zealand Visitor Visa?
If you are paying for your own trip, Immigration New Zealand currently requires evidence of at least:
- NZ$1,000 per month, or
- NZ$400 per month if your accommodation has already been paid for.
You must also have a ticket out of New Zealand or enough additional money to buy one. A qualifying sponsor may cover your accommodation, living expenses and onward travel instead.
These amounts may change, so confirm them on the official Visitor Visa page.
How to apply for a New Zealand Visitor Visa online
Step 1: Confirm the correct visa
Use Immigration New Zealand’s visa finder to check which visa matches your passport, travel purpose and intended stay.
Step 2: Gather your supporting documents
Collect your passport copy, photograph, financial evidence, itinerary and any documents that support your reason for visiting and intention to return home.
Your name, passport number and other personal details must match your passport exactly. Incorrect information can delay the application or result in it being declined.
Step 3: Create an online account
Follow the Apply online link on the official Visitor Visa page. Create an account, complete the form and upload the requested documents.
Step 4: Pay the application cost
Pay the visa fee and any applicable levies through the official application system. Costs depend on factors such as where you apply and can change without notice. Check the amount displayed by Immigration New Zealand when you apply rather than relying on converted rand estimates from third-party websites.
Step 5: Submit and track your application
Review every answer and attachment before submitting. Immigration New Zealand will contact you if more information is required. You can sign in to your account to check your application status.
Step 6: Check your eVisa
If approved, you will normally receive an eVisa by email. Check that your name, passport number and visa conditions are correct. Carry a copy when travelling and ensure you use the same passport linked to the visa.
How long does a New Zealand Visitor Visa take?
Processing times change throughout the year and may be longer during busy travel periods. Incomplete applications or requests for additional information can also cause delays.
Check the live processing estimate on the official Visitor Visa page and apply well before your intended departure. Immigration New Zealand recommends avoiding non-refundable travel bookings until your visa has been approved.
Before travelling to New Zealand
An approved visa does not automatically guarantee entry. Border officials may ask for evidence that you meet the conditions of your visa.
Before departure, make sure you have:
- the passport connected to your eVisa
- your return or onward ticket, or proof that you can afford one
- proof of sufficient funds for your stay
- your accommodation details
- suitable travel and medical insurance
- a completed New Zealand Traveller Declaration
New Zealand has strict biosecurity rules. Declare food, plants, animal products and outdoor equipment when required. If you are unsure, declare it.
Frequently asked questions
Can South Africans apply for a New Zealand visa online?
Yes. Most South African travellers can complete their Visitor Visa application online through Immigration New Zealand.
Do I need to submit my original passport?
Online applicants generally upload a clear copy of their passport. Immigration New Zealand may request the original passport or additional identity evidence after submission if needed.
Should I buy flights before applying for the visa?
You must show that you can leave New Zealand, but this may be proven with a travel booking or sufficient funds to purchase an onward ticket. Immigration New Zealand recommends that you do not book non-refundable travel before your visa is approved.
Can I include my family in my application?
You may be able to include your partner and dependent children aged 19 or younger. You will need evidence of your relationship and identity documents for each person. Family members may also apply separately.
Do I need a medical examination or police clearance certificate?
Not everyone does. The requirements depend on your health, character, age, intended stay and travel history. Immigration New Zealand will tell you what is required for your application.
Do South Africans need an NZeTA?
A New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority is not a replacement for the Visitor Visa required when travelling on a South African passport. If you hold another passport or have unusual travel circumstances, use Immigration New Zealand’s official checker.
Do I need a Transit Visa for New Zealand?
Transit requirements depend on your passport, route and whether you qualify for an exemption. South African passport holders should check the official Transit Visa requirements before booking a journey through a New Zealand airport.
Can a New Zealand Visitor Visa be extended?
You cannot simply extend the expiry date on an existing visa. If you are already in New Zealand and need to stay longer, you generally need to apply for a new Visitor Visa before your current visa expires. Maximum-stay rules still apply.
Ready for New Zealand?
Once the paperwork is sorted, the fun part begins. Compare flights to New Zealand and start planning everything from Waitomo’s glowworm caves and Christchurch’s gardens to Queenstown’s mountain adventures.
*Disclaimer!
All information on this blog page was correct at the time of publishing and may change at any time without prior notice. Travelstart is not affiliated with immigration authorities or their application centres and will not be liable for loss or inconvenience arising from the use of this volatile information.
Can you please tell me if I need a transit visa with a South African passport. Flying Fiji to JHB with stop in Auckland for a few hours. Thanks
Hi Dawn,
I’ve gone onto Travel Info to see if they have provided any info on transit visa’s however I am not able to find anything.
The best would be is to contact the Embassy or official visa handling agency direct. They will be able to answer any visa queries you might have.
Hi. Do I first apply for the visitor visa or first buy a flight ticket and then apply for the visa?
HI Nicole,
On our blog: A Step-by-Step Guide to the New Zealand Visa Application we do mention what documents would be required when applying for a visa. This is mentioned under: “New Zealand Visa Requirements”
However this information could change at anytime and we do recommend you contact the Embassy of official visa handling agency to get the most up to date information.
Hi
Im traveling to new zealand on the 22nd of September how long in advance can I apply for the Visa?
What is the best way to apply and do you know any companies who assist with this?
Thank you
Hi Taariq,
Thanks for getting in touch.
I’ve checked on Travelinfo and see this information is not provided. I can see the processing time takes 25 days or longer.
I suggest contacting the Embassy or official visa handling agency direct to see how far in advance you are able to apply for a visa. The sooner the better 🙂
i making enquiries into returning back to New Zealand i meet my Now husband when i was in England in Nov 16 and visited him June the 21st 2018 i applied for residency status i the august due to crossed wires i was told by an agent i was to be grated 12 to 18 months on receiving my papers, i went to an immigration lawyer and sort advice on my forms only to be told it was the xmas period and come back the 31st of jan , which i did i spoke to a lawyer who filled in a section 61 my husband and myself gathered all the information to support our relationship ad that we were happily living together and were due to get married, i received a call from the lawyer in April stating my application had a 90% chance of failure, so i came back to England on my own accord fearing deportation, I am ow desperate to get back to my Husband and would really appreciate some help i have been told different things my husband foned NZ immigration who said i had to apply for a Temp Visitors Visa and gather as much Information as possible ,
I look forward to your reply
Mrs Kelly Hapeta
Hi Kelly,
I’m afriad we do not specialise in this area.
You would need to contact the Embassy of the country you are trying to get residence status.
They will point you in the right direction and will be able to advise on correct procedures to follow, what documents you would need and the cost involved.
We hope you come right.
My wife already has her return tickets from South Africa to New Zealand and departing in November 2018, she will be visiting her children there until January 2019, we currently reside in Richards Bay, what is the way forward on obtaining a Visiting Visa?
Hi Jackie,
Great to hear from you.
You welcome to read through our blog: Step by Step Guide to the New Zealand Visa Application.
Under “Where to Apply” this info is provided.
The contact details of the official visa handling agency you apply through are also on the blog however have place before:
You welcome to contact them direct for any further information.
New Zealand Visa Application Centre – VFS Global
Address: Cherry Lane Office Park
1st Floor, 114 Fehrsen Street
Nieuw Muckleneuk
Brooklyn
Pretoria
Contact Number: 27-12-425-3004
Email: info.nzza@vfshelpline.com
Hi, do you offer help in assistance with visitor’s visas to New Zealand?
Hi Jenny,
I’m afraid we don’t specialise in visa’s or visa related queries. If you need assistance with your tourist or business visas you welcome to click on the link below and complete the form to get a quick and free assessment and quote from our expert partners at Visa Box!
https://goo.gl/NGey18
My kids are visiting their father in NZ. Do they need visas and by whom an how must it be applied for. They will travel with their grandmother. They are 15 and 9
Hi Mary,
Thanks for contacting us.
You welcome to read our blog: “A Step-by-Step Guide to the New Zealand Visa Application” We do recommend you contact the Embassy or official visa handling agency direct as visa information could change at anytime and they would be able to provide you with the most up to date information.
Please contact the airline your kids will be travelling on as they will advise what documents they would require for unaccompanied minors.
Good Morning! If you apply for your childs visa on your visa application do they get a separate visa stamped in their passport and do they have to fly on the same dates as you or can they return on a separate date?
Hi Elmarie,
You would need to do two separate visa applications. Each person will receive their own visa in their passport.
We do recommend you contact the Embassy or official visa Embassy direct as they will be able to provide you with the most up to date information on the what procedures to follow when applying, documents required and cost.
VFS Global Centre – Pretoria
Telephone No : 012 425 3004
Street Address : Cherry Lane Office Park, 1st Floor, 114 Fehrsen Street, Nieuw Muckleneuk, Brooklyn, Pretoria, 0181
Email Address : info.nzza@vfshelpline.com
Website Address : http://www.vfsglobal.com/newzealand/southafrica
Hi there
If we are travelling as a family to New Zealand on a visitors visa, would we travel on one visa or would we need individual visas.
It would be my fiance and myself And my 3 children ages 18, 14 and 10.
Regards
Bronwyn
Hi Bronwyn,
Thanks for getting in touch.
To my knowledge everyone applies for their own visa which is then stamped into their passport.
You can contact VFS the official visa handling agency for more information
VFS Global Centre – Pretoria
Telephone No : 012 425 3004
Street Address : Cherry Lane Office Park, 1st Floor, 114 Fehrsen Street, Nieuw Muckleneuk, Brooklyn, Pretoria, 0181
Email Address : info.nzza@vfshelpline.com
Website Address : http://www.vfsglobal.com/newzealand/southafrica
Good Day,
I need to find out the validation period of a visitors visa, say our family is planning to visit NZ in Feb? When do we apply for the visa? Also from what date does the 3month period start? The day you leave SA or the day your visa is issued?
Also we are a family of 5, do we each apply for a visa or do we only apply for 1 visa?
Hi there,
Thanks for getting in touch.
The visa is usually valid from date of departure (however please check with the official visa handling agency or Embassy direct for the most up to date information)
And each person will need to apply for their own visa.
Good Day. I live in one province in South Africa. My grand daughter lives with her mother in another province in South Africa, far from us. My son, (my grand daughter’s father lives in New Zealand). It is easiest for me to do the Visa applications. I am finding it very frustrating not knowing which documents to get ready to attach. Any website that mention all the documents required?
We plan to visit him next year. We have bought our return air tickets. I am busy with my Visa Application. As I have my grand daughter’s passport in my possession and she will be travelling with us can I apply for her Visa on her behalf together with mine? (she is 11 years old). Where do I find a list of all documents that must accompany my online visa application and that of my grand daughters. Do I need any letters from both her mother (who has given permission for her to travel with us) and her father giving permission for her to travel with us to visit her father in New Zealand.
Hi Kathy,
Thanks for getting in touch.
You welcome to read our Blog: A Step-by-Step Guide to the New Zealand Visa Application
Here we provide the the relevant information including what documents are required.
I have provided the link to the blog: https://goo.gl/8s9kSq
However as visa rules and process can change at anytime and we are not the ones processing the visa’s we recommend you contact the official Visa Handling Agency direct for the most up to date information. They will also be able to advise if you would be able to apply for a visa on behalf of your grand daughter.
Their contact details are:
VFS Global Centre – Pretoria
Telephone No : 012 425 3004
hi, i cancelled my flight to New Zealand due to circumstances, i want to rebook, must i submit a new application, or can i just upload the new airline ticket?
Hi Ryno,
Thanks for getting in touch.
This depends if you cancelled your flight or suspended the ticket.
You would need to contact the agent direct or airline to see. If you suspended the ticket they will then need to see if the ticket is still valid and if so what the cost would be to re-book.
Do you have any advice for someone who needs to apply but cannot send original passport? is this an option?
I live in Tanzania in the Serengeti and want to apply in Pretoria but I will only be in SA for a few days so obviously cannot hand over my original passport as I will need to travel with it.
Is there an agent or someone who can advise me on the process?
Hi Penny,
Thanks for reaching out.
For this I would suggest contacting the Embassy direct as they are the ones granting the visa’s. They will be able to advise if they could assist of have any suggestions with regards to your query.
Best of luck. Hope they manage to assist.
Hi there, I have a silly love/friendship story. Im still waiting for my passport and it should arrive early next week. Is there any way to speed up the visa process. I need to still book the tickets but if i cant leave before or on 24 March buying a ticket is useless. Is there any way to speed up the process? Or at least be sure if I buy the tickets that my visa will be ready?? I guess i just cant wait any longer to see him….
Kind Regards
Monia
Hi Monica,
For this you will need to contact the Embassy or official visa handling agency direct to see if this is a service they offer at an additional cost.
They will be able to advise accordingly.
Good day. Can you plz tell me all the documents I need to sort out that is needed for an application. I seem to cant find a lost of this .
Thank you
Hi there,
Thanks for getting in touch. You welcome to go through our blog: A Step-by-Step Guide to the New Zealand Visa Application
Here we advise what documents are required when applying, the correct procedures to follow as well as the cost.
Hi, I am currently travelling on a South African passport in Thailand and would like to apply for a New Zealand tourist visa. Can I do this from Thailand as I am not scheduled to return to South Africa for a while?
Thank you
Hi Sam,
Thanks for contacting us.
For this you would need to contact the New Zealand Embassy in Thailand direct. As they are the ones who would be granting the visa’s they will be able to advise if you can apply for a visa in Thailand or not.
Hy. I live in Nairobi-kenya and just wanted to ask, when VFSGLOBAL asks for my passport how long will they keep it for before returning it back to me?
Hi Simran,
Thanks for getting in touch.
For this you would need to ask the official visa handling agency direct. They could have delay on their side, and only they will be able to give you a time estimate from their side.
hi i need some help and info for visa application to New Zeeland;
do i need a police clearance certificate for a visitors visa application.We want to visit my son.
Hi Eugene,
Thanks for reaching out.
Please contact VFS the official visa handling agency. This is the company you need to apply through. They will be able to provide you with the most up to date information if this is required or not.
VFS Global Centre – Pretoria
Telephone No : 012 425 3004
Street Address : Cherry Lane Office Park, 1st Floor, 114 Fehrsen Street, Nieuw Muckleneuk, Brooklyn, Pretoria, 0181
Email Address : info.nzza@vfshelpline.com
Good day
I’m a first time traveller to New Zealand and need to find out about visa. I already made my online application and my visa application and passport is currently with immigration New Zealand in Pretoria, how long does this take. Once it is approved does it mean I can travel as soon as possible or is there something else that I need to do?
Hi Avi,
Thanks for getting in touch.
You welcome to read through our blog: A Step-by-Step Guide to the New Zealand Visa Application
Here we provide all the information including the processing time. For any other information please contact the official visa handling agency where you would need to apply through. They will be able to provide you with the most up to date information.
Good day,
I am going to Visit family in New Zealand, and as a secondary activity I might try for some job interviews.
If I apply for a Visitor Visa then am I allowed to attend job interviews while there?
Thank you.
Hello,
I am Efe and i have a resident permit here in France,How do i apply for a tourist Visa to vist canada for about 1 week.
Regards
Hi there,
Thanks for getting in touch.
Please contact the Canadian Embassy direct. They will be able to provide you with the most up to date information on correct procedures to follow when applying for a visa, what documents would be required and cost.
We need visa forms Johannesburg to new zealand
Hi there,
Thanks for getting in touch.
You welcome to read through our blog: A Step-by-Step Guide to the New Zealand Visa Application
Link: https://travelstartstg.wpenginepowered.com/step-step-guide-new-zealand-visa-application/
This blog was written in 2017 so info could have since changed as per our disclaimer.
You welcome to contact the Embassy or official visa handling agency VFS Global Tel: 012 425 3004 for the most up to date information and forms:
I am enquiring how to apply for a visitor visa for New Zealand. There is only one application centre in Pretoria on site. Is there agencies that can be used to assist with visa application if one resides in Durban?
Hi Samantha,
Thanks for getting in touch.
Best to contact VFS Global, the official visa handling agency – 27-12-425-3004.
They will be able to advise if they have a branch in Durban and if so what their contact details are and address.
Good morning
I already booked my flight ticket to New Zealand. To make my first trip stress free, when can I apply for my visitor visa from South Africa to New Zealand. Kind regards
Ronel
Hi Ronel,
Thanks for getting in touch. Please contact VFS Global. All visa applications can be made at the New Zealand Visa Application Centre (VAC) at VFS Global Tel: 012 425 3004
They will be able to provide you with the most up to date information and correct procedures to follow when applying. And how far in advance you can apply before you travel.
My daughter is 17 and wants to go live with her dad in New Zealand who is a permanent resident. What do we need to do step by step and what is the costs?
Hi Amanda,
Thanks for reaching out.
For immigration visa’s you would need to contact the Embassy or official visa handling agency direct.
They will advise on the correct procedures to follow, what documents are required and the cost.
Moving to New Zealand is so exciting! Have a great time! Greets.