NZ’s International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)

How Much Does the NZ IVL Cost

Important: The IVL is a separate mandatory levy and is charged in addition to the applicable New Zealand visa or NZ eTA fee.

Travellers Who Must Pay the IVL

The IVL is payable by many travellers visiting New Zealand for a temporary stay.

In general, the IVL is charged for most:

• Visitor visas (except partner and dependent categories)
• NZ eTAs
• Student visas (except the dependent child category)
• Working Holiday and Work Exchange schemes
• Student and Trainee Work visas
• Specific Purpose Work visas

Travellers Who Are Exempt from the IVL

• New Zealand citizens and resident visa holders.
• Australian citizens travelling on an Australian passport.
• Australian permanent residents.
• Citizens of several Pacific Island nations.
• Transit passengers who arrive and depart from Auckland International Airport without entering New Zealand.
• Travellers holding a Business Visitor Visa or an APEC Business Travel Card.

Note: These exemptions depend on the traveller’s passport, visa status, and travel purpose, so the final requirement is confirmed during the visa or NZeTA application process.

How the IVL Is Paid

• The IVL is added to the NZ eTA or visa application fee and charged through the immigration system.
• You pay online as part of the application process.
• If a traveller requests a new NZ eTA or applies for another visa later, they may need to pay the IVL fee again.

Important: The IVL is non-refundable, even if immigration authorities decline the NZ eTA or visa application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do children pay the IVL? Does the levy cover multiple entries during the NZ eTA’s 2‑year validity? Will the levy amount change soon?

Content Disclaimer: As the information was updated in May 2026, we advise you to verify with the relevant offices, embassies, and airlines to ensure your travel plans are up to date.