New Zealand Increase VAC Service Fee 2026

Key Point 

• New Zealand has announced an increase to Visa Application Centre (VAC) service fees effective 1 January 2026 

Service Fee Update 

New Zealand has confirmed that applicants using VACs operated by VFS Global will pay higher service fees, effective from 2026. 

• Applicants should use Immigration New Zealand’s online fee tool to confirm the correct amount before applying. 
• VAC websites should also be checked for updated fees, decision times and application guidance. 

Countries Impacted 

The service fee increase applies to VACs in the following countries and territories: 

• Australia, Bangladesh, Fiji, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Nepal & Bhutan, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Samoa, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Vanuatu, Vietnam, Iran, South Africa, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and U.S. 

The government emphasized that the fee adjustment is necessary to maintain service quality and ensure VACs can continue to provide biometric collection, document handling and application support.  

Don’t Miss an Update 

At Envoy Global, we combine smart, friendly legal teams with smart, friendly technology to facilitate immigration for companies and the global talent they depend on. Our holistic, proactive immigration services are built for accuracy and efficiency, always putting people first. 

Reach out today to learn how we can support your company’s immigration needs and help you navigate this rapidly evolving situation.