Planning your dream vacation? This complete New Zealand Visa Application Philippines guide will show you everything you need to know. Whether you’re visiting for a short getaway or a longer holiday, this article will help you apply easily and stress-free.
Before diving into the details, check out our related travel financial tips and discover affordable places to go. These can help you budget better and make the most out of your future trips while staying within your visa limits.
New Zealand is a dream destination for many Filipinos. It’s known for its stunning landscapes, peaceful lakes, and rolling hills. Philippine passport holders need a visa, but the process is easy if you have all the requirements. The best part? Visa fees are waived if your stay is under 60 days. Yes, it’s absolutely FREE!
Before you travel, make sure you are in good health, have enough money, and can show proof of your good character. You may need police certificates showing no criminal conviction or security risk. You must also meet all entry requirements, pass biosecurity checks at New Zealand Customs, and follow your visa conditions.
Main Requirements
Prepare these documents:
- Proof of identity – 2 photos (paper application) or 1 photo (online). You may also be asked for an iris scan or fingerprints.
- Valid passport and copy of your personal data page.
- Proof of financial capability – Bank statements or certificates, pay slips, credit card statements, or lease contracts.
- Proof of sponsor’s financial capability – A signed letter and proof of relationship such as photos or birth certificates.
- Proof of onward travel – A confirmed ticket leaving New Zealand or funds to buy one. Include evidence of any onward travel if available. You can also get a Rent a Flight confirmed ticket for $30.
💡 Tip: Double-check your files. Missing one document can delay your visa.
Supporting Documents
Include these based on your situation:
- Employees: Certificate of Employment, approved leave, ITR, PRC or IBP card (if any).
- Digital nomads: PayPal or income history and screenshots of online work.
- Business owners: DTI or SEC Registration, Business Permit, ITR.
- Students: School Certificate (original) and enrollment form.
- Visa holders: Proof of current visa, current temporary visa, or student visa.
Pro Tip: Write a short cover letter. Explain your travel purpose, itinerary, personal circumstances, and finances. Highlight your genuine reasons for visiting and assure that you’ll return home after your trip.
Health and Character Requirements
To get a visa, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must be in good health. You may need a medical certificate or evidence of a medical examination.
- Some travelers may be asked for a chest x-ray depending on their health history.
- You may need police certificates as proof of your good character.
- You should not have a criminal conviction.
- If you stay longer, show full medical insurance for your total time in New Zealand until the end of your stay.
- Medical exams should be done in an approved clinic.
Two Ways to Apply for a New Zealand Tourist Visa
You can apply for your New Zealand Tourist Visa in two ways:
- Option 1: Submit an online application.
- Option 2: Submit a paper or personal application through VFS Global Manila or Cebu.
If you already hold a temporary visa that is about to expire while applying for another one, you may be granted an interim visa. This lets you stay legally in New Zealand until your new visa decision is made.
How to Apply Online
- Visit the New Zealand Immigration website and create an account.
- Fill out the form and verify your email. Check spam if you can’t find it.
- On the portal, click “Create a new visitor visa application.”
- Confirm on the “Is this form right for you?” page. The Philippines is a fee waiver country.
- Fill in the application truthfully and upload your documents.
- Upload photo (JPG) and other files (PDF, under 10MB). Include your medical certificate, police certificates, or health information if needed.
- Print the “Thank You” page. Submit your passport to VFS Global (in person or through an authorized person).
- Pay the VFS service fee: PHP 1,100. Courier return (optional): PHP 380.
- Wait for updates. You’ll get an alert when your passport is ready.
How to Apply in Person (Paper Application)
- Fill out the visa form and attach 2 colored photos with your name at the back.
- Submit all required documents with your passport and a copy of the bio page.
- Include police certificates, a medical certificate, evidence of any onward travel, and proof of your good character.
- Complete a paper declaration form as part of your application.
- Pay the fee (PHP 1,100). Add PHP 380 if you want courier delivery.
- Keep your receipt and wait for your release notice.
Where to Apply
Manila Office:
Mezzanine Floor, Ecoplaza Bldg., 2305 Don Chino Roces Ave Ext, Makati City
Cebu Office:
VFS Global Cebu, 9th Floor, Keppel Center, Unit 905, Samar Loop cor. Cardinal Rosales Avenue, Cebu Business Park
🕓 Operating Hours:
Manila – Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Cebu – Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Closed on holidays.
Visa Fee and Processing Time
- Visa fee: Free if staying less than 60 days.
- Processing time: Around 20 working days or more. It may take longer depending on your personal circumstances or additional requirements.
Embassy of New Zealand in the Philippines
Address: Zuellig Building, 35th Floor, Makati Avenue, Paseo de Roxas, Makati, 1225 Metro Manila
Contact Number: (02) 8234 3800
Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Your Kiwi Adventure Awaits!
Getting a tourist visa for New Zealand is simple when your documents are organized. The visa fee is waived if you’re staying for less than 60 days—just follow the steps, stay healthy, and prepare your proof of travel.
Before you go, complete your New Zealand Traveller Declaration. Meet all requirements. Bring your entry permission documents. Whether you’re visiting as a tourist or returning resident, travel with confidence and peace of mind.
And don’t forget to stay connected on the go with an Eskimo eSIM. It’s the easiest way to access maps, bookings, and travel updates without swapping SIM cards.
New Zealand’s breathtaking views are waiting, so pack your bags and get ready for an adventure-filled journey!
FAQs
Yes. You must have enough money for your trip. At least 1,000 NZD per month, or 400 NZD if your accommodation is prepaid.
Yes. Add land titles, condo ownership, or car registrations to show strong ties to the Philippines. You can also include proof of your good character.
You can stay up to 9 months. You may extend another 3 months if you qualify. Your total time must follow visa conditions.
Yes. New Zealand Customs may check your proof of onward travel.
Yes. Get our recommended health insurance for travelers, Ekta Traveling to cover emergencies or travel issues.