Visa fees increase comes into effect from 1 October 2024

The Immigration Minister  has announced an increase in visa application fees and levies, effective from 1 October 2024. This adjustment is part of the government’s strategy to maintain a sustainable immigration system, ensuring it remains financially viable while supporting New Zealand’s economic and social objectives. 

Details of the increase in visa fees 

The fee changes apply across a range of visa categories, including residence, work, student, and visitor visas. Applicants will experience different rates based on the geographical band they belong to: Band A (New Zealand, GST inclusive), Band B (Pacific), and Band C (rest of world).  

Some key visa fees that will see significant changes across various categories include: 

• Employer Job Check will now be $735 

• Employer Accreditation (standard) will now be $775 

• Employer Accreditation (high-volume) will now be $1,280 

• Accredited Employer Work Visas will now be $1,540 

• Partners of Workers will now be $1,630 

• Skilled Residence Visas will now be $6,450 

• Partnership Residence will now be $5,360 

• Dependent Child Student Visa will now be $750 

For more detailed information on the new fee structure across various visa categories, including residence class visas, temporary visas, and specific employer-related applications, you can view the official Immigration Fee and Levy Table released by Immigration New Zealand. 

Government’s approach to a sustainable immigration system 

The coalition Government is making changes to create a more sustainable immigration system by revising international visa costs. Immigration Minister Erica Stanford highlighted that the current system has largely been supported by taxpayer funds, but these adjustments will shift the financial burden to those who benefit directly from the system. This approach is intended to make the immigration process more financially self-reliant and efficient. 

From 1 October, nearly all visa categories will see new charges implemented, which are expected to generate over $563 million for over the next four years. These increased fees are designed to cover the costs of processing and evaluating visa applications, especially those that are more complex or pose higher risks. The additional revenue will also address the rising costs of managing migrant exploitation, asylum claims, and the ongoing maintenance and enhancement of Immigration New Zealand’s IT infrastructure. 

Despite the fee increases, New Zealand remains committed to supporting its Pacific neighbours, continuing to offer subsidised fees for applicants from Pacific nations. Minister Stanford also pointed out that as immigration systems are further modernised in the coming years, operational costs are expected to decline, leading to increased efficiency. 

Even with the new charges, New Zealand’s visa fees remain competitive compared to those in countries like Australia and the United Kingdom, ensuring that New Zealand continues to be an attractive destination for living, working, studying, and visiting. This initiative is part of the Government’s broader strategy to enhance fiscal responsibility and support economic recovery. 

Impact on employers and applicants 

These changes will directly impact individuals and businesses planning to apply for New Zealand visas.  

It is important for applicants to be aware of these changes and plan their visa applications accordingly to avoid unexpected costs. Employers who sponsor visas should also consider these new fees, especially the Employer Job Check and Accreditation. 

Summary of the new fee structure 

The new fee structure is detailed in the official table released by Immigration New Zealand. The table outlines current rates and the new rates effective from 1 October 2024, providing a clear comparison for applicants across different visa categories. It is advisable for applicants and employers to review these changes to fully understand the financial implications. 

For more detailed information on the new visa fees, the official announcement can be found on the Immigration New Zealand website. 

For further information and assistance on these updates, please contact Arno Nothnagel, our NZ Immigration Director, at arno.nothnagel@absoluteimmigration.com.