---
title: United States visa for citizens of New Zealand
description: "Citizens of New Zealand need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 90 days. Fee: $185. Processing: 3–20 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/united-states/new-zealand
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# United States visa for citizens of New Zealand

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.*

Official application site: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/all-visa-categories.html

## 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

- **Valid New Zealand Passport** (Identity): Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond stay
- **DS-160 Confirmation Page** (Identity): Online nonimmigrant visa application form
- **Appointment Confirmation Letter** (Identity): Proof of scheduled visa interview
- **Photo (2x2 inches)** (Identity): Taken within last 6 months, white background
- **Bank Statements (last 3 months)** (Financial): Proof of financial means to cover trip
- **Employment Letter** (Employment): States position, salary, and approved leave
- **Travel Itinerary** (Travel, optional): Round-trip flight reservations recommended
- **Hotel Reservations** (Travel, optional): Proof of accommodation during stay
- **DS-160 Fee Receipt** (Supporting): Proof of payment of $185 fee
- **Previous Passports** (Identity, optional): Include old passports with prior visas
- **Proof of Ties to New Zealand** (Supporting, optional): Property deeds, family certificates, or tax returns to show intent to return
- **Cover Letter** (Supporting, 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

## FAQs

### 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](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/all-visa-categories.html)

## More

- [United States visa for every passport](/visa/united-states)
- [Every destination for New Zealand passport holders](/visa/passport/new-zealand)