New Zealand entry requirements for Saudi Arabia passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 24, 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
Saudi Arabian passport holders need a visa to enter New Zealand. As of 2026, you must apply for a visa 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Visa application Apply for a visa before travel | Saudi Arabian passport holders need a visa to enter New Zealand. Apply online at the New Zealand Immigration website. Processing times vary, so apply well in advance of your travel dates.Apply for visa | Required |
| Valid passport Must be valid for the duration of stay | Your passport must be valid for at least the length of your intended stay in New Zealand. No minimum validity beyond departure is required, but airlines may enforce a 6-month rule — check with your carrier. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of onward travel | Immigration officers routinely ask for a return or onward ticket. Have a printed or digital copy ready. Airlines also check this before boarding. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host invitation | Carry a hotel confirmation, hostel booking, or a letter of invitation from your host. Immigration may ask where you're staying on arrival. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Show sufficient money for your stay | Have bank statements, credit cards, or cash ready to show you can support yourself. There's no fixed minimum, but around NZ$1,000 per month is a safe benchmark. | Recommended |
Apply early — no walk-in visas
New Zealand does not offer visa-on-arrival for Saudi passport holders. You must have an approved visa 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 visa 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 May 24, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay9 months
ValidityUp to 18 months from issue date
CostNZD 211 (~USD 130)
For tourism purposes; must leave after stay period.
Tourist 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
Max stayVaries (up to 3 years)
ValidityBased on job offer
CostNZD 495 (~USD 305)
Requires job offer from New Zealand employer.
Student visa
Max stayDuration of course
ValidityUp to 4 years
CostNZD 330 (~USD 203)
Must be enrolled in approved course.
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 |
|---|---|
| Tourist visa (single entry)Standard fee for single-entry visitor visa. | NZD 211 (~USD 130) |
| Tourist visa (multiple entry)Same fee as single entry; allows multiple entries within validity. | NZD 211 (~USD 130) |
| Stay extension feeFor applying to extend visitor visa beyond initial stay. | NZD 235 (~USD 145) |
| Overstay fine per dayPenalty for overstaying visa; may also lead to deportation. | NZD 100 (~USD 62) per day |
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
Transit visa required
Saudi Arabia passport holders need a transit visa to pass through New Zealand, even if staying airside. Apply before travel.
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of a valid New Zealand visa or resident visa may transit without a transit visa.
- Holders of a valid Australian permanent resident visa may transit without a transit visa.
Transit hubsAuckland Airport (AKL) · Christchurch Airport (CHC) · Wellington Airport (WLG)
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 = 1.69 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 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 May 24, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.