New Zealand visa requirements for Afghan citizens in 2026
Checked 1 Sep 2026
No changes since 1 Sep 2026
Entry requirement
Visa required — apply before you travel
Purpose
Tourism
Different passport? See New Zealand visa requirements for all nationalities ↗
Conditions for entry — required on every route
These apply whether you enter visa-free, on a visa on arrival, or on an e-Visa. Airlines can deny boarding if they're not met.
Registration
New Zealand Traveller Declaration — complete it before you travel.
Official form ↗
Onward ticket
Required — airlines may ask to see it at check-in
· Get an onward ticket (partner) ↗
How to enter
Afghan passport holders travelling for tourism should use the route below to enter New Zealand.
1
Embassy Visa
For Afghan citizens looking to travel to New Zealand, securing a visa prior to arrival is mandatory. Please consult the nearest New Zealand embassy or consulate for detailed visa application procedures.
ENTRY
Embassy Visa
PURPOSE
Tourist
Application details
Verified against an official source
Visa fee
441 NZD
Processing time
2 weeks
Required documents
- copy of your passport
- 1 acceptable photo
- police certificates, if required
- evidence of a chest X-ray, if required
- evidence of a medical examination, if required
- proof you have enough money to live on
- proof of your plans in New Zealand to show you are a genuine visitor
- proof you can leave New Zealand at the end of your stay
Last updated 1 Sep 2026 ·
Source: immigration.govt.nz ↗
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Further notes
- Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan passports issued prior to 2004 and after 2021 do not meet the requirements of a passport or certificate of identity under New Zealand immigration law; these passports are therefore unacceptable for travel to New Zealand and visas will not be endorsed in them.
- Passports issued by the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan between 2004 and 2021 are recognised.
- Holders of an Australian Permanent Resident Visa or Resident Return Visa in an acceptable travel document may be granted a New Zealand Resident Visa on arrival permitting indefinite stay (under the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement), subject to meeting character requirements and obtaining an Electronic Travel Authority before departure.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa for New Zealand from Afghanistan?
Yes, a visa is required for Afghan citizens.
Do Afghan citizens need a visa for New Zealand in 2026?
Yes, a visa is required for Afghan citizens. Options include: Embassy Visa.
Can Afghan citizens travel to New Zealand?
Yes, Afghan citizens can travel to New Zealand, but a visa is required.
What is the maximum length of stay in New Zealand with Embassy Visa for Afghan citizens?
The maximum length of stay in New Zealand with Embassy Visa is not specified. Afghan citizens must leave the country within the specified period.
What happens if a Afghan citizen overstays their visa in New Zealand?
Overstaying a visa in New Zealand can result in fines, penalties, and potentially being banned from entering New Zealand in the future. It is important to comply with the length of stay specified with the visa and leave the country within the allotted time.
How much does the New Zealand Embassy Visa cost for Afghan citizens?
The New Zealand Embassy Visa costs 441 NZD for tourist visits. Processing typically takes 2 weeks.
Do Afghan citizens need a return ticket to enter New Zealand?
Yes — New Zealand requires proof of onward or return travel, and airlines may ask to see it at check-in.
Do I need to complete an arrival card before travelling to New Zealand?
Yes — the New Zealand Traveller Declaration is mandatory and separate from any visa. Complete it online before you travel; the official form is linked in the entry conditions above.
About New Zealand
- Official
- New Zealand
- Capital
- Wellington
- Currency
- New Zealand dollar
- Language
- English
- Calling code
- +64
- Population
- 4,993,923
- Region
- Oceania · Australia and New Zealand
Last checked 1 Sep 2026 ·
Entry rules can change at short notice — always confirm with the official source before you travel.