Transit Visa
For travellers passing through New Zealand to another country who are not from a transit visa-waiver country.
The Transit Visa is a New Zealand visitor & short stay visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~NZ$0-NZ$190 depending on nationality and lodgement) and processing time (~1-4 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Transit Visa is for
For travellers passing through New Zealand to another country who are not from a transit visa-waiver country.
No path to residence; for transit only.
Transit Visa - eligibility criteria
- Be travelling through New Zealand to another country
- Hold a confirmed onward ticket within 24 hours
- Hold valid travel documents for the destination country
- Not be from a transit visa-waiver country or hold an NZeTA
- Meet character requirements
Transit Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Transit Visa (New Zealand) is ~NZ$0-NZ$190 depending on nationality and lodgement, with an indicative processing time of ~1-4 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Immigration New Zealand.
| Type | Short stay |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online or at a visa application centre |
| Length of stay | Up to 24 hours in the transit area |
| Work rights | No work allowed |
| Study rights | No study allowed |
| Government fee | ~NZ$0-NZ$190 depending on nationality and lodgement |
| Processing time | ~1-4 weeks |
| Route to PR | No path to residence; for transit only. |
Pathway & next steps
No path to residence; for transit only.
Many applicants also compare NZeTA · New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA), Visitor Visa · Visitor Visa. Run a free VisaChief check to see which New Zealand route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Transit Visa pitfalls we fix
Transit Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Transit Visa cost?
The Transit Visa government fee is ~NZ$0-NZ$190 depending on nationality and lodgement. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Immigration New Zealand before applying.
How long does the Transit Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-4 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Transit Visa lead to permanent residence?
No path to residence; for transit only.
Can I work on the Transit Visa?
Work rights: No work allowed.
Who can apply for the Transit Visa?
For travellers passing through New Zealand to another country who are not from a transit visa-waiver country.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official New Zealand government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Immigration New Zealand - official New Zealand immigration authority