• New Zealand has officially confirmed that Visa Application Centre (VAC) service fees will increase from January 1, 2026, affecting applicants in India and 25 other countries.
  • The revised charges will apply to applicants submitting their New Zealand visa applications through VACs such as VFS Global. This includes fees related to application submission, document handling, and biometric services.
  • Importantly, the actual visa application fees charged by Immigration New Zealand will remain unchanged. The increase applies only to VAC service fees.
  • According to Immigration New Zealand, the revision is due to rising operational costs, inflation, and system upgrades required to maintain and manage visa application centres globally.
  • With New Zealand continuing to attract Indian students, tourists, skilled professionals, and families, applicants are advised to plan ahead. Checking the latest VAC fee structure before applying will help avoid unexpected costs or payment delays.

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Countries Affected by the VAC Fee Increase

The updated VAC service fees will apply to applicants in 26 countries and territories, including India, Australia, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the United Arab Emirates, among others.

What Indian Applicants Should Know

  • Higher VAC service fees will apply from January 1, 2026
  • Visa application fees remain the same
  • The increase is limited to VAC handling and biometric charges
  • Applicants should verify fees in advance on official VAC platforms
  • Early applications may help avoid higher service costs
Immigration New Zealand has also advised applicants to stay alert for technical advisories related to online submissions and document uploads.

Tips to Manage Your Application Costs

  • Apply before January 1, 2026 to avoid increased VAC charges
  • Double-check documents to prevent re-submissions
  • Review optional premium services carefully, as they involve extra fees
  • Stay updated with official announcements for any further changes
If you’re planning to apply for a New Zealand visa and want clear, reliable guidance, Apical Immigration Experts can assist you with end-to-end support, from eligibility checks to application submission.