New Zealand entry requirements for Colombia passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 22, 2026·View sources
Visa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Colombian passport holders need a visa to enter New Zealand. You must apply for a Visitor Visa before you travel — there is no visa on arrival or visa waiver for Colombian nationals. Plan ahead, as processing can take several weeks.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Visa application Visa required | Colombian passport holders need a visa before traveling to New Zealand. Apply online through the New Zealand Immigration website — processing takes a few weeks, so start early. The visa is linked to your passport and allows a stay of up to 9 months.Apply for visa | Required |
| Valid passport Original passport required | Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended departure date from New Zealand. Airlines check this at check-in — if your passport expires sooner, you'll be denied boarding. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of onward travel | Immigration officers routinely ask for a return or onward ticket out of New Zealand. A flight booking to a third country works too. Without one, you risk being refused entry at the border. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host invitation | Have a hotel confirmation or a letter from your host ready. Officers rarely ask for it, but if you can't show where you're staying, they may question your plans. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Bank statements or cash | Carry bank statements or a credit card showing you can support yourself — around NZ$1,000 per month is a safe benchmark. Immigration can ask for proof of funds at the counter. | Recommended |
Apply well in advance
Do not book non-refundable flights until your visa is approved. Processing times can stretch to 6 weeks during busy periods.
eVisa is digital
Your approved visa will be sent as a PDF by email. Print a copy and also save it on your phone. You don't need a physical sticker in your passport.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for a Visitor Visa online
Go to the Immigration New Zealand website and create an account. Fill out the Visitor Visa application form, upload your documents (passport scan, photo, bank statements, itinerary), and pay the fee (NZD 246). Processing usually takes 2–4 weeks, but can be longer during peak seasons.
2
Wait for visa decision
Check your application status online. You may be asked for additional documents — respond promptly. Once approved, you'll receive an eVisa via email. Print a copy and save it on your phone.
3
Book flights and accommodation
After visa approval, book your flights and first night's accommodation. Keep all confirmations accessible — you'll need them at check-in and possibly on arrival.
4
Arrive at Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch airport
Hand over your passport and eVisa (printed or digital) to the immigration officer. They may ask about your travel plans, funds, and return ticket. Answer honestly and briefly. You'll get an entry stamp valid for up to 9 months (as per your visa conditions).
Download New Zealand Entry Checklist
PDF · Colombia Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 22, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Visitor Visa (Single Entry)
Max stay9 months
ValidityUp to 18 months from issue date
CostNZD 211 (~USD 130)
For tourism or visiting family. Must apply before travel.
Visitor Visa (Multiple Entry)
Max stay9 months per visit
ValidityUp to 18 months from issue date
CostNZD 211 (~USD 130)
Allows multiple entries; suitable for frequent travelers.
Work Visa (Talent/Accredited Employer)
Max stayUp to 3 years
ValidityVaries with job offer
CostNZD 495 (~USD 305)
Requires a job offer from an accredited employer.
Student Visa
Max stayDuration of course
ValidityUp to 4 years
CostNZD 330 (~USD 203)
For full-time study at approved institutions.
work visa
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
Indefinite (permanent residency)
NZD 3,310 (~USD 2,040)
For skilled workers with a job offer in an occupation on the skill shortage list. Requires points test and health/character checks.
Apply student visa
Student Visa (Full-Time Study)
Up to 4 years (course duration)
NZD 330 (~USD 203)
For full-time study at a New Zealand educational institution. Must have offer of place and sufficient funds.
Apply investor visa
Investor 2 Visa
4 years (leads to residency)
NZD 3,310 (~USD 2,040)
For investors with NZD 3 million to invest in New Zealand for 4 years. Requires business experience and English language.
Apply Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visitor Visa (Single Entry)Standard fee for a single-entry tourist visa. | NZD 211 (~USD 130) |
| Visitor Visa (Multiple Entry)Same fee as single entry; multiple entries allowed within validity. | NZD 211 (~USD 130) |
| Stay Extension (Visitor Visa)Fee for applying to extend stay beyond initial visa period. | NZD 211 (~USD 130) |
| Overstay FineMaximum penalty; overstayers may also face deportation. | NZD 1,000 (~USD 620) per day |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete application20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through New Zealand
No transit visa needed
Colombian passport holders do not need a transit visa for airside transit through New Zealand airports, provided they have a confirmed onward ticket and do not pass through immigration.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Transit hubsAuckland Airport (AKL) · Christchurch Airport (CHC) · Wellington Airport (WLG)
Health & vaccines for New Zealand
Recommended vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, etc.)EssentialHepatitis ARecommendedTyphoidConsiderInfluenzaRecommended
Health risks
Mosquito-borne diseases (rare)Low risk
Risk of Ross River virus and other arboviruses is low but present in some rural areas.
Food and water safetyLow risk
Generally safe, but standard precautions advised.
Sun exposureModerate risk
High UV levels; use sunscreen and protective clothing.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Auckland
Immigration New Zealand Auckland Office
Level 3, 20 Amersham Way, Manukau, Auckland 2104
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Main office for visa applications and inquiries. Book an appointment online.
Wellington
Immigration New Zealand Wellington Office
Level 4, 45 Johnston Street, Wellington 6011
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Handles visa extensions and complex cases.
Practical information for CO travellers
Country basics
CapitalWellington
LanguageEnglish, Māori
Driving sideLeft-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS license valid for up to 12 months.
Money
CurrencyNew Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 1.69 NZD
Time zone
Local timeUTC+12
vs New York+17h (EST) / +16h (EDT)
vs Los Angeles+20h (PST) / +19h (PDT)
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
IType I — same as Australia. US plugs do not fit. Bring an adapter.
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Safe to drink
Safe to drink throughout New Zealand.
Emergency numbers
Getting to New Zealand
Nearby destinations you can also visit
Countries close to New Zealand — with your same passport.
Frequently asked questions
Processing usually takes 2 to 4 weeks, but can be longer during peak travel seasons (November to February). Apply at least 6 weeks before your planned departure to be safe.
The standard fee is NZD 246 (about COP 600,000 as of 2026). This is non-refundable even if your visa is denied. You pay online when you submit the application.
Yes, you can apply for a Visitor Visa extension before your current visa expires. Extensions are granted on a case-by-case basis, usually for up to 3 more months. The fee is around NZD 246.
Yes, Colombian passport holders need a transit visa even if you're only changing planes and staying airside. Apply for a Transit Visa online before you travel.
You'll need a scanned copy of your passport bio page, a recent passport-style photo, bank statements from the last 3 months, flight itinerary, accommodation bookings, and a brief travel plan. If employed, include a letter from your employer.
No. The Visitor Visa does not allow any paid work. You can volunteer if it's not for a paid position, but you cannot take a job or do business activities.
You'll receive a letter explaining the reason. Common reasons include insufficient funds, unclear travel plans, or previous immigration issues. You can reapply with stronger documents, but the fee is non-refundable.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 22, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.