South Africa passport → New Zealand

New Zealand visa for citizens of South Africa

eVisaeVisa · Visitor Visa (up to 9 months)

Citizens of South Africa 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
Visa validity	730 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	1–30 days
Government fee	NZ$100
Passport validity	At least 3 months
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	At least NZD 1,000 per month of stay or NZD 400 per month if accommodation is prepaid.

How to apply

1
Prepare documents
Gather your passport, digital photo, proof of funds, onward ticket, and any other supporting documents.
2
Complete online application
Fill out the eVisa application form on the official Immigration New Zealand website.
3
Upload documents
Upload digital copies of all required documents in the specified format.
4
Pay the fee
Pay the visa application fee (approximately NZD 100) via credit card or other accepted payment method.
5
Submit application
Review the application and submit it electronically.
6
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 1 to 30 days; you will receive the eVisa via email.
7
Print eVisa and travel
Print the eVisa letter and carry it with your passport when traveling to New Zealand.

Documents checklist

Identity

Digital passport-style photograph
Taken within the last 6 months, with a plain background.

Travel

Valid South African passport
Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended departure date from New Zealand.
Onward or return ticket
Evidence of a booked onward or return flight.
Accommodation details
Optional
Hotel bookings or a letter of invitation from a host.
Travel itinerary
Optional
Optional but may speed up processing.

Financial

Evidence of sufficient funds
Bank statements for the last 3 months or a letter from your bank.

Employment

Employment or leave letter
Optional
If employed, a letter from your employer granting leave.

Supporting

Medical insurance
Optional
Not mandatory but recommended.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: NZD 1,000 per month (or NZD 400 per month if accommodation is prepaid)

bank statements (last 3 months)
letter from bank
credit card statements

Funds must be readily accessible and in your own name or joint account.

Good to know

Ensure your passport has at least 3 months validity beyond your planned departure from New Zealand.
Always carry a printed copy of your eVisa letter.
The entry conditions may be checked at the border – ensure you meet all requirements.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds or inability to prove financial means

Provide clear bank statements showing the required balance for the duration of your stay.

Unclear travel intentions or lack of onward ticket

Submit a complete travel itinerary and a confirmed return or onward ticket.

Passport validity less than 3 months beyond departure date

Renew your passport before applying.

Incomplete application or missing documents

Double-check the document checklist before submission.

FAQ

Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for New Zealand?

Citizens of South Africa 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 South Africa stay in New Zealand?

Up to 270 days.

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

Government fee: NZ$100.

How long does New Zealand visa processing take?

Typically 1–30 days.

What documents do citizens of South Africa need for New Zealand?

Valid South African passport; Digital passport-style photograph; Evidence of sufficient funds; Onward or return ticket; Accommodation details; Travel itinerary; and 2 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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