New Zealand passport → United States

United States visa for citizens of New Zealand

Embassy / VFSNonimmigrant Visa · B1/B2 (Tourist/Business)

Citizens of New Zealand need a visa for the United States 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 · Nonimmigrant Visa · B1/B2 (Tourist/Business)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Visa validity	365 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	3–20 days
Government fee	$185
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Required
Proof of funds	Demonstrate sufficient funds for stay

How to apply

1
Complete DS-160 Form
Fill out online nonimmigrant visa application at ceac.state.gov
2
Pay Visa Fee
Pay the $185 fee via the designated payment system
3
Schedule Interview
Book appointment at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in New Zealand
4
Biometrics Appointment
Attend fingerprinting and photo capture at the Visa Application Center
5
Attend Consular Interview
Bring all documents and answer questions about your travel plans
6
Wait for Processing
Allow 3–20 business days for visa adjudication
7
Collect Passport with Visa
Passport returned via courier or pick-up with visa vignette

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid New Zealand Passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond stay
DS-160 Confirmation Page
Online nonimmigrant visa application form
Appointment Confirmation Letter
Proof of scheduled visa interview
Photo (2x2 inches)
Taken within last 6 months, white background
Previous Passports
Optional
Include old passports with prior visas

Travel

Travel Itinerary
Optional
Round-trip flight reservations recommended
Hotel Reservations
Optional
Proof of accommodation during stay

Financial

Bank Statements (last 3 months)
Proof of financial means to cover trip

Employment

Employment Letter
States position, salary, and approved leave

Supporting

DS-160 Fee Receipt
Proof of payment of $185 fee
Proof of Ties to New Zealand
Optional
Property deeds, family certificates, or tax returns to show intent to return
Cover Letter
Optional
Purpose of visit and summary of documents

Proof of funds

Bank statements
Pay slips
Tax returns

Must show sufficient funds for entire stay

Good to know

ESTA is not a visa; this lane is for a formal B1/B2 visa requiring an in-person interview
Failure to prove strong ties to New Zealand may lead to refusal

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient ties to New Zealand

Provide strong evidence of employment, property, or family commitments

Incomplete documentation

Check DS-160 confirmation and bring all required original documents

Criminal record or past visa violations

Disclose honestly; provide any necessary waivers

FAQ

Do citizens of New Zealand need a visa for the United States?

Citizens of New Zealand need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Nonimmigrant Visa · B1/B2 (Tourist/Business).

How long can citizens of New Zealand stay in the United States?

Up to 90 days.

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

Government fee: $185.

How long does United States visa processing take?

Typically 3–20 days.

What documents do citizens of New Zealand need for the United States?

Valid New Zealand Passport; DS-160 Confirmation Page; Appointment Confirmation Letter; Photo (2x2 inches); Bank Statements (last 3 months); Employment Letter; and 6 more.

How long must my passport be valid for the United States?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/all-visa-categories.html

Sources

travel.state.gov

Plan your trip to the United States

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