South African passport holders require visas for New Zealand as from 21 November 2016:

Visa changes for South African nationals:

All South African visitors to New Zealand will require visitor visas from the 21 November this year.

These changes are being made as a result of an increase in the number of South African nationals who have been refused entry at the New Zealand border in comparison to other visa waiver countries.

Currently, people from South Africa do not need to apply for a visitor visa before travelling to New Zealand, with genuine visitors being granted a visitor visa on arrival. As a result of the change all visitors from South Africa will need to obtain a visa before travelling to New Zealand.

INZ recommends that applicants apply for a visitor visa about six weeks in advance of their intended travel dates.

South Africa visa changes – Questions and Answers

Why is the Government introducing visitor visa requirements for all South African nationals wishing to travel to New Zealand?

The Government is introducing these changes as a result of an increase in the number of ineligible passengers who do not meet New Zealand entry instructions.

This is evidenced by an increase in the number of passengers who have been refused permission to board a flight to New Zealand or refused entry at the border in comparison to other visa waiver countries.

Additionally, there have been incidents of passengers who have been found holding counterfeit or fraudulently obtained South African passports.

What do these changes mean?

This means that on and after the 21 November all South African nationals will need to obtain a visa before travelling to New Zealand 

Applicants wishing to travel to New Zealand can visit the Visas Zone website to obtain requirements and applications forms.

Questions and answers:

I’m from South Africa and purchased a ticket prior to today’s’ announcement, what happens now?

People who have already purchased tickets for travel to New Zealand prior to today’s (And departing on of after 21 November 2016) announcement should immediately apply for a visitor visa.

I’m planning to travel to New Zealand before 21 November, but I won’t be leaving until afterwards. Do I need to apply for a visa before I travel?

No. You will be a granted visitor visa on your arrival in New Zealand providing you meet standard requirements (such as having sufficient funds, an outward ticket and satisfying the immigration officer you are genuinely intending a visit). The visitor visa will remain valid for up to three months from your arrival.

I’m a South African national in New Zealand and wish to extend my stay; do I need to apply for a visitor visa?

Yes – whether you were granted a visa under visa waiver provisions or arrived with a visa you will need to ensure you remain lawfully in New Zealand. If you wish to stay beyond the duration of the visa you currently have please apply for another visa well before your current visa is due to expire.