New Zealand Tourist Visa
Visitor Visa · For Vietnam citizens
Planning a trip to New Zealand as a Vietnamese citizen? You will need a Visitor visa, which costs NZD 441 plus a NZD 100 tourism levy. Processing takes approximately 3 weeks, and you apply online through Immigration New Zealand. This guide covers all requirements for a successful visa application.
New Zealand Tourist Visa for Vietnamese Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Vietnam citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your Vietnamese passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from New Zealand
Complete the online application through Immigration New Zealand
Recent digital photograph meeting specifications
Proof of sufficient funds for your stay (NZD 1,000/month recommended)
Evidence of your travel arrangements
Evidence you will return to Vietnam after your visit
Application Process
Vietnamese citizens must apply online for a New Zealand Visitor visa.1
1. Create a RealMe Account
Visit Immigration New Zealand and create a RealMe account.1 This is required for online applications.
2. Complete the Online Application
Fill out the Visitor visa application form online.1 Provide accurate information about:
- Personal details
- Travel plans
- Employment and financial situation
- Previous travel history
3. Upload Supporting Documents
Upload all required documents:1
- Passport scan
- Digital photograph
- Bank statements
- Employment letter
- Travel itinerary
- Evidence of ties to Vietnam
4. Pay the Fees
Pay NZD 441 (visa fee) plus NZD 100 (IVL) online using a credit card.2
5. Wait for Decision
Processing typically takes about 3 weeks (80% of applications).1 You can track your application status online.
6. Receive Your Visa
If approved, you will receive a visa approval notification via email. Print this and bring it with your passport when traveling.
Fees
| Fee Type | Amount (NZD) | Amount (VND approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Visitor Visa Application | 441 | 6,800,000 |
| IVL (Tourism Levy) | 100 | 1,540,000 |
| Total | 541 | 8,340,000 |
Fees are non-refundable regardless of the outcome.2
What You Need to Prove
Immigration New Zealand assesses applications based on:1
- Genuine visitor: Legitimate purpose for visiting
- Financial capability: NZD 1,000/month or acceptable sponsor
- Departure plans: Clear intention to leave New Zealand
- Health requirements: Good health
- Character requirements: No serious criminal history
- Ties to Vietnam: Strong reasons to return home
Processing Times
| Application Status | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Within 3 weeks | 80% |
| Within 5 weeks | 95% |
| Longer | 5% (complex cases) |
Do not book non-refundable travel until your visa is approved.1
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved:
- You will receive an approval notification via email
- Print the approval letter
- Present passport and approval at check-in and immigration
- Border officer determines final entry and length of stay
- Respect your visa conditions (no work allowed)
If Your Visa is Refused
If your application is rejected:
- Review the refusal letter: Understand specific reasons
- Consider options: You may be able to request reconsideration
- Address issues: Gather stronger documentation
- Reapply: Submit a new application with improvements
Most refusals are due to financial or ties-to-Vietnam issues.1
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Unable to demonstrate adequate funds for the trip and stay.
How to avoid: Show NZD 1,000/month of stay in accessible funds. Provide 3-6 months of bank statements with regular income.
Weak Ties to Vietnam
Unable to demonstrate compelling reasons to return to Vietnam.
How to avoid: Include employment letter with tenure, property documents, family certificates, business interests.
No Clear Departure Plan
Unable to show intention to leave New Zealand after the visit.
How to avoid: Have a clear return flight booking. Explain your travel plans in the application.
Incomplete Application
Missing documents or inconsistent information.
How to avoid: Double-check all required documents. Ensure information is consistent across all submissions.
Health or Character Concerns
Issues with health requirements or character checks.
How to avoid: Be honest about any health conditions or previous visa issues. Provide required documentation if asked.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Vietnamese citizens need a visa for New Zealand?
Yes, Vietnamese citizens need a Visitor visa to enter New Zealand. There is no visa-free or NZeTA option for Vietnamese passport holders.
How much does a New Zealand visa cost for Vietnamese citizens?
The Visitor visa costs NZD 441 plus the NZD 100 International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL). Total: NZD 541 (approximately 8.3 million VND).
How long does New Zealand visa processing take for Vietnamese?
80% of applications are processed within 3 weeks. Apply well in advance of your planned travel date.
How long can Vietnamese stay in New Zealand on a tourist visa?
The Visitor visa allows stays of up to 6 months (single entry) or 9 months (multiple entry) depending on what is granted.
Where do I apply for New Zealand visa from Vietnam?
Apply online through the Immigration New Zealand website. Create a RealMe account and submit your application digitally.
What is the New Zealand visa approval rate for Vietnamese citizens?
The approval rate is approximately 76% for Vietnamese applicants with complete documentation.
What is the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)?
The IVL is a NZD 100 levy that helps fund conservation and tourism infrastructure in New Zealand. Most visitors must pay it.
Can I work on a New Zealand tourist visa?
No, the Visitor visa does not permit work. You can study for up to 3 months, but not work.