15 January 2025
Immigration New Zealand has announced increased service fees charged at Visa Application Centres (VACs) worldwide. The adjustment, which occurred on 31 December 2024, reflects the rising operational costs associated with managing and maintaining these centers.
Overview of the Fee Changes
The revised service fees now apply to all VACs globally. While specific fee increases vary by region and type of application, Immigration New Zealand has emphasized the importance of checking updated fees before submitting a visa application.
The increases include:
- Standard Service Fees: Increased by an average of 10% across all VACs.
- Premium Services (Optional): Fees for services like courier delivery, SMS updates, and priority processing have risen by approximately 15%.
- Biometric Collection Fees: Increased by 5% to cover enhanced security measures.
For instance:
- A visitor visa application service fee in certain regions has risen from NZD 30 to NZD 33.
- Courier delivery services that were previously NZD 15 are now charged at NZD 17.25.
Why the Increase?
Adjustments have been made to address the rising costs of operations, which include enhanced security protocols, technological upgrades, and infrastructure improvements at VACs. These changes aim to provide a smoother, more secure application process for visa applicants.
What Should Applicants Do?
- Verify Fees Before Applying: Use the Office and Fees Finder tool on the Immigration New Zealand website to confirm the exact amount you need to pay.
- Review VAC Websites: Each VAC may have slight regional variations in services and fees. Check your local VAC website for up-to-date information.
- Plan for Additional Costs: If you are utilizing premium services or expedited processing, ensure you factor in the increased charges.
Key Points to Remember
- The increase applies to all visa categories, including visitor, student, work, and residence visas.
- Fees are updated regularly, and applicants are encouraged to check for the latest changes before making payments.
- Ensure you have sufficient funds to cover both visa fees and associated service charges when submitting your application.
By staying informed and prepared, you can avoid unexpected delays or issues during the visa application process.
Disclaimer: The above data point is subject to change; Visit Immigration New Zealand’s official website or VAS Center for the exact increase
Reference
About ICL Immigration
ICL Immigration, based in Auckland, is an established licensed immigration adviser with over 20 years of experience and a remarkable 97% approval rate. We’ve helped over 1,000 immigrants realise their New Zealand settlement dreams.
We specialise in a broad spectrum of visa services, including work, residency, student visas, and business-related services like employer accreditation, ensuring personalised solutions for individuals and businesses aiming to navigate New Zealand’s immigration landscape successfully.
