New Zealand entry requirements for Saudi Arabia passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed August 5, 2026·View sources
eVisa 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
Saudi Arabian passport holders need a visa to enter New Zealand. As of 2026, you must apply for an eVisa before you travel — there is no visa-on-arrival or visa-waiver option for Saudi nationals. Plan ahead because processing can take several weeks.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| New Zealand eVisitor visa (NZeTA)You need this online visa authorization before you can fly to New Zealand. Apply online before travel | Saudi Arabian passport holders must obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before boarding a flight to New Zealand. The application is completed online via the official Immigration New Zealand website or mobile app. Approval is typically granted within a few days, but apply at least 72 hours before departure. | Required |
| Passport validityYour passport must be valid for 6 months after you leave New Zealand. At least 6 months beyond departure | Your Saudi Arabian passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your intended date of departure from New Zealand. Ensure your passport does not expire during your stay. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesYou need an empty page in your passport for the arrival stamp. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least one blank page for the entry stamp. It is recommended to have more than one blank page to avoid issues at immigration. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketHaving a ticket out of New Zealand helps prove you intend to leave. Proof of departure | Although not explicitly required by New Zealand immigration, you may be asked to show a return or onward ticket as evidence that you will leave New Zealand before your visa expires. It is strongly recommended to have one. | Recommended |
| Proof of sufficient fundsCarry evidence that you can support yourself financially during your visit. Financial evidence | While not a fixed requirement, you should be able to demonstrate that you have enough money to cover your stay in New Zealand. Immigration officers may ask for bank statements or cash. A common guideline is NZD $1,000 per month of stay, but this is not a strict rule. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou don't need to fill out any arrival form before you fly, but you'll declare items on arrival. New Zealand Traveller Declaration | New Zealand does not require a separate arrival declaration for Saudi Arabian passport holders at this time. However, you will complete a customs and biosecurity declaration on arrival, either via the New Zealand Traveller Declaration system (online or paper form) or as part of the arrival process. | Not required |
Apply early — no walk-in visas
New Zealand does not offer visa-on-arrival for Saudi passport holders. You must have an approved eVisa before you fly. Processing can take weeks, so don't leave it to the last minute.
Transit? You still need a visa
Even if you're just changing planes in New Zealand and staying airside, Saudi nationals need a transit visa. Apply for a transit visa through Immigration New Zealand.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for your eVisa online
Go to the Immigration New Zealand website and complete the visa application form. You'll need to upload your passport scan, photo, and supporting documents. Pay the fee online. Processing typically takes 2–4 weeks, so apply well before your travel date.
2
Receive your eVisa
Once approved, you'll get an eVisa via email. Print a paper copy and save a PDF on your phone. You'll need to show it at check-in and possibly at immigration.
3
Prepare your documents for departure
At the airport in Saudi Arabia, the airline will check your visa, passport validity, and onward ticket. Have your printed eVisa and booking confirmations handy.
4
Arrive in New Zealand
At Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, or Queenstown airports, proceed to the immigration queue. Present your passport and eVisa. The officer may ask about your accommodation, return ticket, and purpose of visit. Answer clearly. After clearance, collect your bags and proceed to customs.
Download New Zealand Entry Checklist
PDF · Saudi Arabia Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 5, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Visitor Visa (standard)
Max stayUp to 9 months (usually 3-6 months per visit)
ValidityUp to 18 months (multiple entry)
CostNZD 246 (approx. USD 150)
For longer stays or if you do not qualify for NZeTA; requires full application and biometrics.
Work Visa (e.g., Essential Skills Work Visa)
Max stayUp to 5 years (depending on job offer and skill level)
ValidityUp to 5 years
CostNZD 495 (approx. USD 300) for Essential Skills; other categories vary
Requires a job offer from a New Zealand employer and may require a labour market test.
Student Visa
Max stayDuration of course (up to 4 years)
ValidityDuration of course
CostNZD 330 (approx. USD 200)
Requires acceptance into a New Zealand educational institution and proof of funds.
Business Visitor Visa (if not covered by NZeTA)
Max stayUp to 3 months
ValidityUp to 12 months (multiple entry)
CostNZD 246 (approx. USD 150)
For business meetings, conferences, or negotiations; not for paid work.
work visa
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
Indefinite (permanent residency)
NZD 4,290 (~USD 2,640)
For skilled workers with job offer in New Zealand; points-based system. Requires age, experience, and qualifications.
Apply student visa
Student Visa (Full-time study)
Up to 4 years (course duration)
NZD 330 (~USD 203)
For full-time study at approved institution; allows part-time work. Must have offer of place and sufficient funds.
Apply investor visa
Investor 2 Visa
4 years (leads to residency)
NZD 4,290 (~USD 2,640)
For investors with NZD 3 million to invest in New Zealand for 4 years. Requires business experience and English.
Apply retirement visa
Parent Retirement Visa
Indefinite (residency)
NZD 4,290 (~USD 2,640)
For parents of New Zealand residents; requires NZD 1 million investment and annual income. Not a standard retirement visa.
Apply Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) application feeMandatory for Saudi nationals; includes IVL (International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy) of NZD 35. | NZD 17 (approx. USD 10) via mobile app; NZD 23 (approx. USD 14) via website |
| International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)Charged per person; valid for up to 2 years. | NZD 35 (included in NZeTA fee) |
| Visa application fee (if applying for a visitor visa instead of NZeTA)Only if you choose to apply for a visitor visa; NZeTA is the standard route for short stays. | NZD 246 (approx. USD 150) for standard visitor visa |
| Visa extension fee (Visitor Visa extension)If you need to stay longer than the NZeTA allows; apply before your current visa expires. | NZD 246 (approx. USD 150) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds proof30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete application documents20%
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
Saudi nationals transiting through New Zealand airports (e.g., Auckland) do not need a visa if they stay airside and hold a confirmed onward ticket to a third country within 24 hours. However, they must still obtain an NZeTA before travel, as it is required for all transits through New Zealand.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- If you need to clear immigration (e.g., to collect baggage and re-check it), you must apply for a Transit Visa (NZD 246) or a Visitor Visa.
- If your onward flight is not within 24 hours, you will need a Visitor Visa.
Transit hubsAuckland Airport (AKL) · Wellington Airport (WLG) · Christchurch Airport (CHC)
Health & vaccines for New Zealand
Recommended vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, polio, etc.)EssentialHepatitis ARecommendedTyphoidConsiderInfluenzaRecommended
Health risks
Mosquito-borne diseases (rare)Low risk
Risk of dengue or Ross River virus is low but present in some areas.
Food and water safetyLow risk
Generally safe; standard hygiene 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, 46 Sale Street, Auckland CBD
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Main office for visa applications and inquiries.
Wellington
Immigration New Zealand Wellington Office
Level 4, 45 Johnston Street, Wellington
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Handles visa and permit services.
Practical information for SA 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 = 1.76 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 seasons. Apply at least 6–8 weeks before your planned travel date to be safe.
Some visitor visas can be extended, but it's not guaranteed. You must apply before your current visa expires. Extensions are not automatic and are assessed case by case.
Yes, Saudi passport holders need a transit visa even if you're just changing planes and not leaving the airport. Apply for a transit visa through Immigration New Zealand.
You must travel with a valid passport. If you renew your passport, you need to transfer your visa to the new passport — contact Immigration New Zealand to do this.
No. There is no visa-on-arrival or visa-waiver for Saudi nationals. You must have an approved visa before you board your flight.
There is no in-person interview for most visitor visa applications. The entire process is online. You'll upload your passport scan, photo, travel itinerary, accommodation bookings, and proof of funds.
As of 2026, the standard visitor visa application fee is approximately NZD 246 (around SAR 600). Fees are subject to change — check the official Immigration New Zealand website for the latest.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on August 5, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.