Lesotho passport → New Zealand

New Zealand visa for citizens of Lesotho

eVisaeVisa · Visitor Visa (up to 9 months)

Citizens of Lesotho 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.

Key facts

Entry route	eVisa · Visitor Visa (up to 9 months)
How to apply	Fully online — no office visit
Maximum stay	Up to 270 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	7–14 days
Government fee	NZ$211
Passport validity	At least 3 months
Biometrics	Not required
Appointment	Not required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	At least NZD 1,000 per person per month of stay, or NZD 400 if accommodation is prepaid

How to apply

1
Check eligibility and gather documents
Ensure passport validity and prepare all required scans.
2
Complete the online application (INZ 1189)
Log in to the Immigration New Zealand eVisa portal and fill out the form.
3
Upload supporting documents
Attach scanned copies of passport, photo, funds proof, itinerary, and employment letter.
4
Pay the visa fee online
Pay NZD 211 via credit/debit card or online banking.
5
Submit application
Review all information and submit. Await confirmation email.
6
Wait for processing (7–14 days)
INZ processes the eVisa. You may be contacted for additional documents.
7
Receive eVisa approval via email
Once approved, an electronic visa will be sent. Print a copy for travel.
8
Travel to New Zealand
Present the eVisa confirmation and passport at immigration upon arrival.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (biometric, valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure)
Must have at least one blank page for entry stamp.
Recent passport-sized photograph (35mm x 45mm, white background)
Upload a digital copy meeting New Zealand visa photo standards.
Completed online eVisa application form (INZ 1189)
Apply via the Immigration New Zealand website.

Travel

Return or onward ticket
Must show exit from New Zealand before visa expiry.
Travel itinerary
Optional
Optional but recommended to support purpose of visit.
Proof of accommodation
Optional
Hotel booking or invitation letter from host.

Financial

Proof of sufficient funds
Bank statements, pay slips, or sponsor letter showing NZD 1,000/month.

Employment

Employment letter or proof of ties to home country
Demonstrates intention to return after visit.

Supporting

Medical clearance (if staying more than 6 months or from a high-TB country)
Optional
Chest X-ray and medical certificate may be required for stays over 6 months.
Police clearance certificate
Optional
May be requested if the applicant has a criminal record or longer stay.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: NZD 1,000 per month of stay

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Pay slips
Sponsor letter with the sponsor's bank statement

If accommodation is prepaid, funds may be reduced to NZD 400 per month.

Good to know

Passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended departure date.
If staying more than 6 months, you may need chest X-ray and medical clearance.
Ensure you have a return or onward ticket before applying.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds or unclear source of funds

Provide recent bank statements showing adequate balance and a clear source of income.

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all entries; use the official guide before submission.

Travel history or character concerns

Submit a police clearance certificate if applicable and be truthful about any previous refusals.

FAQ

Do citizens of Lesotho need a visa for New Zealand?

Citizens of Lesotho need a visa for New Zealand and can apply online for an eVisa. Visa type: eVisa · Visitor Visa (up to 9 months).

How long can citizens of Lesotho stay in New Zealand?

Up to 270 days.

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

Government fee: NZ$211.

How long does New Zealand visa processing take?

Typically 7–14 days.

What documents do citizens of Lesotho need for New Zealand?

Valid passport (biometric, valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure); Recent passport-sized photograph (35mm x 45mm, white background); Completed online eVisa application form (INZ 1189); Proof of sufficient funds; Return or onward ticket; Employment letter or proof of ties to home country; and 4 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/new-zealand-visas/apply-for-a-visa/about-visa/nzeta

Sources

immigration.govt.nz

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