--- title: New Zealand visa for citizens of Lesotho description: "Citizens of Lesotho need a visa for New Zealand and can apply online for an eVisa. Stay up to 270 days. Fee: NZ$211. Processing: 7–14 days. Documents checklist and application steps." canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/new-zealand/lesotho lastModified: 2026-09-05 --- # New Zealand visa for citizens of Lesotho 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.* Official application site: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/apply-for-a-visa/about-visa/nzeta ## 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 - **Valid passport (biometric, valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure)** (Identity): Must have at least one blank page for entry stamp. - **Recent passport-sized photograph (35mm x 45mm, white background)** (Identity): Upload a digital copy meeting New Zealand visa photo standards. - **Completed online eVisa application form (INZ 1189)** (Identity): Apply via the Immigration New Zealand website. - **Proof of sufficient funds** (Financial): Bank statements, pay slips, or sponsor letter showing NZD 1,000/month. - **Return or onward ticket** (Travel): Must show exit from New Zealand before visa expiry. - **Travel itinerary** (Travel, optional): Optional but recommended to support purpose of visit. - **Medical clearance (if staying more than 6 months or from a high-TB country)** (Supporting, optional): Chest X-ray and medical certificate may be required for stays over 6 months. - **Police clearance certificate** (Supporting, optional): May be requested if the applicant has a criminal record or longer stay. - **Proof of accommodation** (Travel, optional): Hotel booking or invitation letter from host. - **Employment letter or proof of ties to home country** (Employment): Demonstrates intention to return after visit. ## 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. ## FAQs ### 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](https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/apply-for-a-visa/about-visa/nzeta) ## More - [New Zealand visa for every passport](/visa/new-zealand) - [Every destination for Lesotho passport holders](/visa/passport/lesotho)