New Zealand will raise visa fees for most categories starting in October 2024.

The New Zealand government has announced a substantial increase in visa fees across nearly all categories, effective October 1, 2024. Immigration Minister Erica Stanford stated that the revised fees are intended to better align with the actual costs of processing visas and the benefits provided by immigration services.

"Until now, taxpayers have heavily subsidized our immigration system," Minister Stanford said. "The new fee structure shifts the cost to those who benefit from the system, making it self-funding and more efficient."

The government anticipates that the increased visa charges, which include both fees and levies, will generate over NZD 563 million for the Crown over the next four years. This adjustment aims to cover the expenses associated with visa processing, evaluating and managing higher-risk applications, and addressing heightened compliance demands, such as tackling migrant exploitation and handling asylum claims.

“The new charges reflect the costs associated with visa processing, managing high-risk applications, and meeting increased compliance requirements, including handling migrant exploitation and asylum claims, as well as maintaining and upgrading Immigration New Zealand’s ICT systems,” explained Minister Stanford.

Despite the fee hikes, subsidized fees will remain for applicants from Pacific countries, continuing New Zealand’s support for its Pacific neighbors.

Minister Stanford also noted that the new fees remain competitive compared to similar charges in countries like Australia and the United Kingdom. “We are confident that New Zealand will continue to be an attractive destination for living, working, studying, and visiting,” she added.

The government also expects that future improvements in immigration systems will lead to lower operational costs and enhanced efficiencies.

“This move is part of our broader effort to restore fiscal discipline and rebuild the economy,” Minister Stanford concluded.

The updated visa fee structure will take effect on October 1, 2024, marking a significant change in the funding and operation of New Zealand’s immigration system.