Immigration fees and levies are reviewed regularly to ensure they accurately reflect the cost incurred in providing immigration services. New fees and levies have now been confirmed, following public consultation earlier in the year. The new fees and levies will take effect from Monday, 5 November 2018.
Summary of changes
Most fees and levies are increasing, reflecting cost pressures and increases risk management practices. A small number of visas see a decrease and refugee applicants will now be specifically exempted from the requirement to pay an application fee.
Popular visa categories, the current and future charges (for applicants in New Zealand), are listed below:
| Visa | Current immigration costs (applicants in NZ) | New immigration costs (applicants in NZ) |
| Skilled Migrant Category | $2,470 | $2,710 |
| Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa | $1,250 | $1,480 |
| Essential Skills Work Visa (online) | $318 | $495 |
| Fee Paying Student Visa (online) | $277 | $275 |
| Visitor visa (online) | $184 | $211 |
| Working Holiday Visa | $208 | $245 |
