---
title: New Zealand visa for citizens of Costa Rica
description: "Citizens of Costa Rica need a visa for New Zealand and can apply online for an eVisa. Stay up to 90 days. Fee: NZ$17. Processing: Up to 3 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/new-zealand/costa-rica
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# New Zealand visa for citizens of Costa Rica

Citizens of Costa Rica need a visa for New Zealand and can apply online for an eVisa.

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

Official application site: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/

## Key facts

- **Entry route:** eVisa · NZeTA · Visitor (up to 3 months)
- **How to apply:** Fully online — no office visit
- **Maximum stay:** Up to 90 days
- **Visa validity:** 730 days
- **Entries:** Multiple entry
- **Processing time:** Up to 3 days
- **Government fee:** NZ$17
- **Passport validity:** At least 3 months
- **Biometrics:** Not required
- **Appointment:** Not required
- **Interview:** Not required
- **Onward or return ticket:** Required
- **Proof of funds:** Sufficient funds for stay (e.g., NZ$1,000 per month).

## How to apply

1. **Prepare documents** — Have your passport, digital photo, debit/credit card, and travel details ready.
2. **Go to the official NZ Immigration website** — Visit immigration.govt.nz and select 'Apply for NZeTA'.
3. **Complete the online application** — Fill in personal details, passport info, and travel plans.
4. **Upload digital photo** — Upload a recent passport-style photo.
5. **Pay the fee** — Pay NZ$17 using a credit or debit card.
6. **Submit and wait for approval** — Most applications are processed within 72 hours.
7. **Receive NZeTA by email** — The NZeTA is sent as a PDF; keep it with your travel documents.
8. **Travel to New Zealand** — Present your NZeTA (printed or on phone) upon arrival.

## Documents checklist

- **Valid Costa Rican passport** (Identity): Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended departure from New Zealand.
- **Digital photo (passport-style)** (Identity): Uploaded during application.
- **Credit or debit card for payment** (Financial): Used to pay the NZ$17 processing fee.
- **Email address** (Supporting): For receiving the NZeTA confirmation.
- **Travel itinerary or onward ticket** (Travel): Evidence of onward travel from New Zealand.
- **Proof of sufficient funds** (Financial): Bank statements or credit card statements showing at least NZ$1,000 per month.
- **Health / character declarations** (Supporting, optional): May be requested if relevant medical or criminal history.

## Good to know

- You may transit without a visa at Auckland Airport for up to 24 hours if you meet character requirements and have obtained a NZeTA.
- Holders of an Australian Permanent Resident Visa do not need a NZeTA for entry.

## Common refusal reasons

- **Invalid or expired passport** — Ensure your passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond your departure from New Zealand.
- **Insufficient funds** — Provide bank statements showing at least NZ$1,000 per month of stay.
- **Criminal record or previous immigration issues** — Disclose any relevant history truthfully; some issues may be waivable.

## FAQs

### Do citizens of Costa Rica need a visa for New Zealand?

Citizens of Costa Rica need a visa for New Zealand and can apply online for an eVisa. Visa type: NZeTA · Visitor (up to 3 months).

### How long can citizens of Costa Rica stay in New Zealand?

Up to 90 days.

### How much does the New Zealand visa cost for citizens of Costa Rica?

Government fee: NZ$17.

### How long does New Zealand visa processing take?

Typically Up to 3 days.

### What documents do citizens of Costa Rica need for New Zealand?

Valid Costa Rican passport; Digital photo (passport-style); Credit or debit card for payment; Email address; Travel itinerary or onward ticket; Proof of sufficient funds; and 1 more depending on your situation.

### 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/

## Sources

- [immigration.govt.nz](https://www.immigration.govt.nz/)

## More

- [New Zealand visa for every passport](/visa/new-zealand)
- [Every destination for Costa Rica passport holders](/visa/passport/costa-rica)