Do South Africa citizens need a visa to visit New Zealand?

Visa required. You must apply at the consulate or visa application centre before travelling.

How long can South Africa citizens stay in New Zealand on a New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)?

South Africa citizens can stay up to 1825 days in New Zealand on a New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).

How long does it take to process a New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) for South Africa citizens?

Processing takes around 30 days on average, with a range of 14–60 days. Apply well in advance of your travel date.

Can South Africa citizens extend their stay in New Zealand?

Yes, South Africa citizens may apply for an extension of their New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) from within New Zealand before their status expires.

🛡️Sourced from official government portals🔄Reviewed quarterly⚠️Always verify before booking travelOfficial source: Immigration NZ ↗

WorkVisa Required

New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)for 🇿🇦 South Africa citizens travelling to 🇳🇿 New Zealand

South Africa citizens are required to obtain a New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) before travelling to New Zealand. You must submit a formal application at the New Zealand embassy, consulate, or a designated visa application centre in your country. Apply well in advance of your planned travel date.

Apply Now — Official Portal ↗

1825 days✓Max stay

~30 days✓Avg processing

14–60 daysProcessing range

multipleEntry

✓ AllowedExtension

ℹ️What to Expect

To apply for a New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), book an appointment at the nearest New Zealand embassy or visa application centre in your country. Submit the required documents in person or via a designated courier service. Processing takes approximately 30 days. Fees may apply — verify at the official portal. Plan well ahead of your intended travel date to allow time for processing and any additional document requests from the consulate. Always verify current requirements at the official government portal before booking travel.

Document requirements are not yet listed for this visa. Check back soon.

Note: Requires a job offer from an INZ-accredited employer. The employer must first check the labour market (Job Check) before hiring offshore. Valid up to 3 years for median-wage roles and up to 5 years for higher-wage roles. Replaced the Essential Skills Work Visa in July 2022. Pathway to residency through the Skilled Migrant Category.

🌐Why South Africa passport holders need a visa for New Zealand

South Africa citizens require a visa to enter New Zealand based on the current immigration requirements set by New Zealand's government. South Africa passport holders must apply through the New Zealand embassy, consulate, or a designated visa application centre before travelling. Requirements are subject to change, so always verify at the official government portal.

Requirements last reviewed: June 2026 · Source: official government portal

New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)for 🇿🇦 South Africa citizens travelling to 🇳🇿 New Zealand

ℹ️What to Expect

🌐Why South Africa passport holders need a visa for New Zealand

🔗More New Zealand Visa Options