---
title: New Zealand visa for citizens of South Africa
description: "Citizens of South Africa need a visa for New Zealand and can apply online for an eVisa. Stay up to 270 days. Fee: NZ$100. Processing: 1–30 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/new-zealand/south-africa
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# New Zealand visa for citizens of South Africa

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.*

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
- **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

- **Valid South African passport** (Travel): Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended departure date from New Zealand.
- **Digital passport-style photograph** (Identity): Taken within the last 6 months, with a plain background.
- **Evidence of sufficient funds** (Financial): Bank statements for the last 3 months or a letter from your bank.
- **Onward or return ticket** (Travel): Evidence of a booked onward or return flight.
- **Accommodation details** (Travel, optional): Hotel bookings or a letter of invitation from a host.
- **Travel itinerary** (Travel, optional): Optional but may speed up processing.
- **Employment or leave letter** (Employment, optional): If employed, a letter from your employer granting leave.
- **Medical insurance** (Supporting, 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.

## FAQs

### 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](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 South Africa passport holders](/visa/passport/south-africa)