Last Updated: 16 September 2026
South Africans need a New Zealand visitor visa before travelling. Applications are made online to Immigration New Zealand (INZ).
South Africans cannot use the NZeTA, which is only for visa-waiver nationalities.
Tell us your travel dates, purpose and number of applicants for a New Zealand visa.
Get Visa AssistanceDo South Africans Need a Visa for New Zealand?
Yes. South African passport holders need a visitor visa for tourism, family visits and business visits to New Zealand.
New Zealand Visa Requirements for South Africans
Requirements vary according to visa type and applicant circumstances. INZ generally assesses whether you are a genuine visitor with enough money for the trip and an onward or return ticket, and whether you meet health and character rules.
Confirm the latest requirements before submitting your application.
Types of New Zealand Visas
| Visa or permission | Typically used for |
|---|---|
| Visitor visa | Tourism, family visits, business visits |
| Group visitor visa | Groups travelling together on the same itinerary |
| Transit visa | Some transit itineraries |
| Work and student visas | Longer stays - separate applications |
New Zealand Tourist Visa
Holidays use the standard visitor visa. Apply well before travel because INZ assesses applications in order of receipt and priority.
New Zealand Business Visa
Short business visits such as meetings and conferences are generally covered by the visitor visa. Work needs a work visa.
How to Apply for a New Zealand Visa from South Africa
- Create an Immigration New Zealand online account.
- Complete the visitor visa application.
- Upload passport, photo and supporting documents.
- Pay the application fee, immigration levy and International Visitor Levy.
- Respond to any INZ requests.
- Receive an eVisa by email.
New Zealand Visa Cost in South Africa
INZ quotes the visitor visa as a total that includes the application fee, an immigration levy and the NZD 100 International Visitor Levy.
| Cost item | Amount | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Visitor visa total (most nationalities, outside NZ) | NZD 441 (approx. R4,230) | Official INZ fee, immigration levy and NZD 100 IVL |
| Medical or police certificates | Only if requested | Third-party cost |
| Visa assistance (online application, file review) | R1,500 - R4,000 per applicant | Optional assistance fee |
Fees may change and should be confirmed with the relevant government, embassy, consulate or authorised visa application provider before applying. Rand amounts are approximate conversions and assistance fees are indicative market ranges, not quotations.
Get the assistance fee for your actual New Zealand application rather than a range.
Compare Visa Assistance QuotesNew Zealand Visa Processing Time
INZ publishes decision times by visa type. Check the official fees and decision times tool before booking travel.
Processing times are estimates and can change.
Where to Apply in South Africa
Applications are made online to Immigration New Zealand. There is no need to visit an office unless INZ asks for something specific.
Documents Needed
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Passport | Valid for at least 3 months beyond departure from New Zealand |
| Photo | INZ photo specification |
| Proof of funds | Bank statements or sponsorship |
| Return or onward travel | Booking or itinerary |
| Employment proof | Leave approval |
| Invitation | Family or business host details |
Common Reasons Visa Applications Are Delayed
- Photos rejected by the online system.
- Missing evidence of funds.
- Requests for police or medical certificates.
- Applying close to the travel date.
Visa Application Assistance
Providers can prepare the online application and supporting evidence. See visa application assistance and police clearance certificates if requested.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do South Africans need a visa for New Zealand?
Yes. South Africans need a visitor visa and cannot use the NZeTA.
How much is a New Zealand visitor visa for South Africans?
INZ quotes NZD 441 in total for most nationalities applying outside New Zealand, including the NZD 100 International Visitor Levy.
Is the New Zealand visa issued electronically?
Yes, visitor visas are issued as eVisas linked to your passport.
Can I apply as a group?
A group visitor visa exists for groups on the same itinerary. See group visa services.
Compare assistance quotes for your New Zealand application through Visa Application - free and with no obligation.
Related Pages
Visa approval is solely at the discretion of the relevant immigration authority. Visa Application is not a government department, embassy, consulate or visa application centre, and no provider can guarantee approval, appointment availability or processing time.
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