Somalia passport → New Zealand

New Zealand visa for citizens of Somalia

Embassy / VFSVisitor Visa

Citizens of Somalia 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
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	minimum NZ$1,000 per month of stay

How to apply

1
Gather required documents
Collect all documents as per checklist above
2
Complete visa application form
Fill online or print INZ 1017 and sign
3
Pay application and service fees
Online payment or at bank/branch as instructed
4
Book biometrics appointment
Schedule at nearest VFS Global centre
5
Submit application at visa centre
Provide biometrics and hand over documents
6
Await visa processing
Check application status online regularly
7
Receive decision via email or SMS
If approved, follow instructions for passport collection

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
Must include blank pages
Completed visa application form (INZ 1017)
Signed and printed
Recent passport-sized photographs (2)
Meets NZ immigration photo specifications
Marriage certificate or birth certificate (if applicable)
Optional
For family applicants

Travel

Flight itinerary (round-trip or onward ticket)
Confirmed booking or reservation
Accommodation bookings
Optional
Hotel reservations or invitation from host

Financial

Proof of sufficient funds
Bank statements, pay slips, or sponsorship letter

Employment

Employment letter or proof of occupation
Stating position, salary, and leave approval

Supporting

Travel medical insurance
Optional
Strongly recommended for the duration of stay
Cover letter explaining purpose of visit
Optional
Optional but helpful for clarity
Copy of previous visas or travel history
Optional
If applicable, show compliance
Police clearance certificate
Optional
May be requested for longer stays

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: NZ$1,000 per month of stay

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Pay slips
Sponsorship letter with sponsor's bank statements

Funds must be readily available and in applicant's name unless sponsored

Good to know

Somalia is not recognised by New Zealand as having a competent passport-issuing authority. Holders of Somali passports are de facto excluded and cannot meet the passport validity requirement. Applications will be declined on this basis.

Common refusal reasons

Passport issued by an authority not recognised by New Zealand

This is currently not possible for Somali passport holders; no known avoidance

Insufficient funds or lack of onward travel

Provide clear evidence of financial means and travel plans

Incomplete or incorrect documentation

Follow the checklist meticulously and use official guidelines

FAQ

Do citizens of Somalia need a visa for New Zealand?

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

How long can citizens of Somalia stay in New Zealand?

Up to 90 days.

What documents do citizens of Somalia need for New Zealand?

Valid passport (at least 6 months validity); Completed visa application form (INZ 1017); Recent passport-sized photographs (2); Proof of sufficient funds; Flight itinerary (round-trip or onward ticket); Employment letter or proof of occupation; and 6 more depending on your situation.

How long must my passport be valid for New Zealand?

At least 6 months.

Plan your trip to New Zealand

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