UK Joins US, South Korea, Turkey, Japan, Singapore, UAE and More as New Zealand Rolls Out Steep Visa Fee Hike

Published on December 15, 2025

By: Rana Pratap

Due to growing operational expenses, inflation, and recent system upgrades, New Zealand will increase visa service fees for visitors from the UK, US, South Korea, Turkey, Japan, Singapore, UAE, and more starting on January 1, 2026. Separate from the visa application fee, which is paid directly to Immigration New Zealand, this increase is applicable to the service fees assessed by Visa Application Centers (VACs). The increase is part of New Zealand’s attempts to continue providing effective visa processing services in the face of growing expenses and the requirement for modern technology. Before applying, travelers are advised to review the new fees as they may have an impact on individuals who are planning travels to New Zealand. This change is essential to guaranteeing a smooth experience for applicants due to the increasing demand for services and the enhancements required to enhance the application process. Although the increase may result in additional expenses for travel arrangements, it is an essential measure to ensure that services continue to function smoothly and effectively for tourists from across the world.

Why the Hike in Visa Service Fees?

The primary reason for the increased fees is to address the rising operational costs and inflation that have affected businesses globally. As Immigration New Zealand has explained, the increase will apply specifically to the service fees charged by the Visa Application Centres (VACs) and will be separate from the actual visa application fee, which is paid directly to Immigration New Zealand.

In addition, New Zealand has recently upgraded its systems to improve the efficiency and security of visa processing, which has contributed to the increased operational costs. These upgrades are crucial to maintaining smooth and secure visa processing for travelers, but, as with any technological advancement, they come with a price tag.

How Much Will the Service Fees Increase?

While Immigration New Zealand has confirmed that service fees will rise, exact amounts for each country and VAC are not publicly listed in the announcement. The new fees will be specific to the local service fees charged by VACs and will vary by country. The fee increase is due to rising operational costs and inflation, and is designed to keep services running smoothly amid these changes.

Travelers are advised to check the updated fees before submitting applications, as the service fee increase does not apply to the visa application fee, which is paid directly to Immigration New Zealand. To find the exact service fee for your location, you can use the official online fee-checking tool provided by Immigration New Zealand or visit your local VAC’s website. VACs like VFS Global provide up-to-date details on the specific fees for each country and service type.

For more details, you can visit the official Immigration New Zealand page here:
New Zealand VAC Service Fee Increase – Immigration New Zealand

How Will This Impact Tourism?

New Zealand has long been a popular destination for travelers seeking everything from adventure tourism to serene nature retreats. From the glowworms of Waitomo to the dramatic landscapes of Fiordland, the country’s appeal is undeniable. However, this price increase may cause some concerns among potential visitors.

While the visa service fee hike may not directly affect the overall cost of a trip to New Zealand, it adds another layer of expense that travelers must factor into their plans. For frequent travelers or those planning long-term stays, this increase could be especially noticeable. The countries most affected—such as the UK, the US, and Japan—are key source markets for New Zealand tourism, so any disruption in the visa process or added costs could deter some visitors.

That said, New Zealand remains a top destination for many, and for travelers who are determined to explore its stunning scenery and rich culture, the visa fee hike will likely be a small price to pay compared to the unforgettable experiences on offer.

What Travelers Need to Know

If you’re planning to apply for a New Zealand visa, there are a few important things you should know:

1. Check the Updated Service Fees: The fee increase will apply to the service fees charged by VACs, so it’s essential to check the updated charges before submitting your application. This is separate from the visa application fee that you pay directly to Immigration New Zealand. To avoid any surprises, use the official online fee-checking tool or visit the relevant VAC website, including VFS Global, to confirm the latest fees.
2. Which Countries Are Affected?: The service fee hike will impact applicants from various countries across the globe. In addition to major markets like the UK, US, and Japan, other countries such as Australia, India, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and South Korea will also experience the fee increase. For a full list of affected countries, please refer to the official Immigration New Zealand website or your local VAC.
3. Be Aware of Technical Issues: Immigration New Zealand has also issued a notice regarding some technical difficulties affecting online visa applications. Applicants may encounter issues viewing letters or documents due to a recent system upgrade. While these issues should be resolved shortly, it’s important to stay updated and check the official channels for the latest information.
4. Plan Ahead: Since the changes will take effect from January 2026, it’s important to plan your application process ahead of time. This is especially true if you’re applying for a visa close to the holiday season or peak travel periods when processing times may be longer.
5. Stay Informed: Immigration New Zealand has advised applicants to regularly check for updates on the official website. As systems continue to evolve and operational adjustments are made, keeping up with the latest information will help ensure a smooth application process.

What This Means for Global Travelers

The visa service fee increase from New Zealand may not only have an impact on tourism numbers but could also affect perceptions of travel costs to the country. With travel budgets being scrutinized more than ever in a post-pandemic world, any added costs, even in the form of service fees, may lead travelers to reconsider their plans.

However, New Zealand’s undeniable charm is likely to remain a strong draw. Whether it’s the world-renowned hiking trails, the rich Māori heritage, or the vibrant cities like Auckland and Wellington, the country’s appeal is timeless. While the fee increase might momentarily create some friction, it is a small price for those looking to experience the wonders of New Zealand firsthand.

Starting January 1, 2026, New Zealand will raise visa service fees for travelers from the UK, US, South Korea, Turkey, Japan, Singapore, UAE, and more, due to rising operational costs, inflation, and necessary system upgrades to maintain efficient services.

In Conclusion

For travelers heading to New Zealand, the upcoming hike in visa service fees is an important update to keep in mind. The reasons behind the increase—rising operational costs and inflation, alongside system upgrades—are understandable. While the hike may cause some inconvenience or additional costs, it is unlikely to significantly deter the flow of tourists eager to explore New Zealand’s natural beauty and unique culture.

As always, it’s crucial to stay informed and plan ahead. Checking updated fees, being aware of technical issues, and factoring in the new costs will help ensure that your visa application process is as smooth as possible. Despite the changes, New Zealand remains an incredible destination, and the magic of its landscapes and culture is worth every effort.