New Zealand Visitor Visa
Visitor Visa · For Colombia citizens
Planning a trip to New Zealand as a Colombian citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the Visitor Visa application: required documents, current fees of NZD $541 (including IVL), processing times of 3 weeks, and strategies to improve your approval chances. With careful preparation and strong documentation, Colombian applicants can successfully obtain their New Zealand visa.
New Zealand Visitor Visa for Colombian Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Colombia citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your Colombian passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from New Zealand
Complete the online visa application through Immigration New Zealand
Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay
Evidence of your travel arrangements and accommodation
Documentation proving your employment status in Colombia
Evidence demonstrating your genuine intention to return to Colombia
Declaration of good character and any criminal history
Recommended (Optional)
Health examination from an approved panel physician
Application Process
All New Zealand visitor visa applications from Colombia must be submitted online through Immigration New Zealand.1 The process involves four main steps:
1. Create an Account and Start Application
Visit the Immigration New Zealand website and create a RealMe account. Start your Visitor Visa application online, entering your personal details, travel plans, and intended duration of stay.1
2. Upload Supporting Documents
Gather and upload all required documents including your passport scan, financial evidence, travel itinerary, employment proof, and evidence of ties to Colombia. Use high-quality scans for all documents.1
3. Pay Fees
Pay the application fee of NZD $441 and the IVL levy of NZD $100 online via credit or debit card. Both fees are non-refundable.2
4. Wait for Decision
Immigration NZ will assess your application. You can track the status online. Most applications receive a decision within 1-3 weeks.3 Do not book non-refundable travel until approved.
Fees
| Fee Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Visitor Visa Application | NZD $441 | Main application fee |
| IVL Levy | NZD $100 | Conservation and tourism levy |
| Total | NZD $541 | Approximately US$330 |
All fees are non-refundable, even if your application is declined or withdrawn.
What You Need to Prove
Immigration New Zealand requires you to demonstrate that you are a genuine visitor.1 This means showing:
- Genuine intention to visit: Clear travel plans and a compelling reason to visit New Zealand
- Plans to leave: Evidence you will depart before your visa expires (return flights, onward travel)
- Sufficient funds: Financial resources to support yourself without working locally
- Ties to Colombia: Strong reasons to return home, such as employment, property, or family
Processing Times
Current processing times for Visitor Visa applications from Colombia:3
| Timeframe | Percentage of Applications |
|---|---|
| Within 1 week | 50% |
| Within 2.5 weeks | 80% |
| Up to 3+ weeks | Remaining applications |
Processing may take longer if:
- Additional documents are requested
- Your application requires further verification
- You apply during peak travel seasons
Apply at least 4-6 weeks before your planned travel date.
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, your visa will be electronically linked to your passport. You will receive a visa approval letter via email. Print this letter and carry it when traveling.
At New Zealand border control, you may be asked to show:
- Return or onward flight tickets
- Proof of accommodation
- Evidence of sufficient funds
- Your travel itinerary
Immigration officers can grant entry for less time than your visa allows, so be prepared to explain your genuine visitor intentions.
If Your Visa is Refused
If your application is declined, Immigration NZ will send you a letter explaining the reasons. You can:
- Reapply with improved documentation addressing the specific concerns
- Request reconsideration if you believe the decision was incorrect
- Appeal to the Immigration and Protection Tribunal in some circumstances
A refusal does not permanently bar you from future applications. Take time to address the issues raised before reapplying.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Bank statements do not demonstrate sufficient funds to cover the entire trip, or show suspicious patterns like recent large deposits.
How to avoid: Show 3-6 months of statements with consistent balance. Demonstrate NZD $1,000+ per month of planned stay. Avoid unexplained large deposits.
Weak Ties to Home Country
Unable to demonstrate compelling reasons to return to Colombia, such as stable employment, property, or family obligations.
How to avoid: Provide employment letter showing tenure, property documents, and family certificates. This is especially important for first-time applicants.
Unconvincing Travel Purpose
Travel plans seem implausible or do not match the applicant's profile and financial situation.
How to avoid: Provide a realistic, detailed itinerary. Ensure your financial evidence supports the scope of your planned trip.
Incomplete Application
Missing documents, unsigned forms, or low-quality document scans that cannot be verified.
How to avoid: Use the Immigration NZ checklist. Upload clear, high-resolution scans. Double-check all forms are complete and signed.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of visa refusals, overstays, or violations in New Zealand or other countries.
How to avoid: Be honest about previous issues. Provide explanation letters showing changed circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Colombian citizens need a visa for New Zealand?
Yes, Colombian citizens require a Visitor Visa to enter New Zealand. You must apply and be approved before traveling.
How long can I stay in New Zealand on a visitor visa?
The Visitor Visa allows stays of up to 9 months, depending on what is granted. Standard grants are typically for 6 months.
What is the New Zealand visitor visa fee for Colombians?
The application fee is NZD $441. Additionally, you must pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZD $100, for a total of NZD $541.
How long does New Zealand visa processing take?
80% of applications are processed within 3 weeks. The average processing time is about 1 week, but this can vary based on application volume and completeness.
Can I work in New Zealand on a visitor visa?
No, you cannot work in New Zealand on a Visitor Visa. The only exception is remote work for an overseas employer. Any local employment requires a work visa.
Can I study in New Zealand on a visitor visa?
You can study for up to 3 months during your visit. For longer study periods, you need a student visa.
What is the IVL levy?
The International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy is a NZD $100 fee that helps fund tourism infrastructure and conservation efforts in New Zealand. It is non-refundable even if your visa is declined.
What if my New Zealand visa is refused?
You will receive a letter explaining the reasons for refusal. You can reapply with improved documentation addressing the concerns. Some decisions may be eligible for a formal appeal.