Afghanistan passport → New Zealand

New Zealand visa for citizens of Afghanistan

Embassy / VFSVisitor Visa (General)

Citizens of Afghanistan need a visa for New Zealand and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Visitor Visa (General)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	15–30 days
Government fee	NZ$211
Passport validity	At least 3 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Evidence of sufficient funds for the duration of stay (e.g., bank statements, pay slips, or a letter from a sponsor).

How to apply

1
Check eligibility and prepare documents
Ensure your Afghan passport is valid (issued between 2004 and 2021) and gather all required documents.
2
Complete online application
Log in to Immigration New Zealand's RealMe portal, fill the visitor visa form (INZ 1017), and pay the fee online.
3
Book biometrics appointment
After submitting, schedule an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide fingerprints and photograph.
4
Attend biometrics appointment
Visit the VAC in person with your passport and appointment confirmation to enroll biometrics.
5
Submit supporting documents
Upload or courier any additional documents requested (e.g., police certificate, medicals) to the VAC or INZ.
6
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15-30 days. You may be contacted for further information.
7
Receive visa decision
If approved, you will receive an eVisa letter via email. No physical visa sticker is placed in the passport.
8
Travel to New Zealand
Carry your passport and a copy of the eVisa approval letter. Present them at border control.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 3 months validity beyond intended departure)
Afghan passports issued before 2004 or after 2021 are not accepted.
Completed visitor visa application form (INZ 1017)
Must be filled online via RealMe login.
Recent passport-sized photograph (35mm x 45mm)
Must meet NZ visa photo specifications.

Travel

Travel itinerary or flight booking
Showing entry and exit dates.
Proof of onward travel (return or onward ticket)
Confirmed ticket out of New Zealand.
Accommodation details (hotel bookings or invitation letter)
For the entire stay in New Zealand.

Financial

Bank statements (last 3-6 months)
Showing sufficient funds for the trip.
Sponsorship letter (if sponsored)
Optional
From a New Zealand resident/citizen, including proof of sponsor's funds.

Employment

Proof of employment or study (if applicable)
Optional
Letter from employer or school confirming leave and return.

Supporting

Police clearance certificate (if requested)
Optional
May be required for longer stays or if criminal history exists.
Medical certificate (if requested)
Optional
Only if intending to stay more than 6 months or if health concerns.
Cover letter explaining purpose of visit
Optional
Optional but recommended to clarify travel plans.
Proof of relationship (if visiting family)
Optional
Birth certificates, marriage certificates, etc.
Visa application fee payment receipt
Pay online via credit/debit card.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: NZD 1,000 per month of stay (or evidence of sufficient funds)

Bank statements (last 3-6 months)
Pay slips
Sponsor's bank statements and letter

Funds must be readily available and not borrowed. Credit cards are not accepted as proof.

Good to know

Afghan passports issued before 2004 or after 2021 are NOT accepted for travel to New Zealand.
Biometrics must be provided in person at a Visa Application Centre; no exceptions.
Overstaying a visitor visa can result in deportation and future bans.
All documents not in English must be accompanied by certified translations.

Common refusal reasons

Invalid passport (issued before 2004 or after 2021)

Ensure your Afghan passport was issued between 2004 and 2021 inclusive.

Insufficient funds or unclear source of funds

Provide clear bank statements showing sufficient balance and income.

Incomplete application or missing documents

Double-check the document checklist and submit all required items.

Failure to attend biometrics appointment

Book and attend the appointment on time; reschedule if necessary.

Criminal record or security concerns

Provide a police clearance certificate if requested; disclose any past issues honestly.

FAQ

Do citizens of Afghanistan need a visa for New Zealand?

Citizens of Afghanistan need a visa for New Zealand and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Visitor Visa (General).

How long can citizens of Afghanistan stay in New Zealand?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the New Zealand visa cost for citizens of Afghanistan?

Government fee: NZ$211.

How long does New Zealand visa processing take?

Typically 15–30 days.

What documents do citizens of Afghanistan need for New Zealand?

Valid passport (with at least 3 months validity beyond intended departure); Completed visitor visa application form (INZ 1017); Recent passport-sized photograph (35mm x 45mm); Travel itinerary or flight booking; Proof of onward travel (return or onward ticket); Accommodation details (hotel bookings or invitation letter); and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for New Zealand?

At least 3 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/apply-for-a-visa/about-to-apply-for-a-visa/visa-wizard

Sources

immigration.govt.nz

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