Visa and Mastercard (credit/debit) are the only NZeTA payment methods for 2026. Total cost: NZD $117 (app) or NZD $123 (web), combining the application fee with the mandatory NZD $100 IVL. All charges settle in NZD; UK banks typically add a 2.5 to 3 percent FX surcharge. The IVL is non-refundable even if your application is declined. Last updated: 11 September 2026.
How Much Does the NZeTA Cost in 2026?
The NZeTA costs NZD $117 via the mobile app or NZD $123 via web, combining the application fee with the mandatory NZD $100 International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL). All charges settle in NZD; no GBP billing option exists. For the full breakdown of NZeTA fees and the IVL levy, see Immigration New Zealand’s NZeTA page:.
| Channel | NZeTA Fee | IVL | Total Payable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile app | NZD $17 | NZD $100 | NZD $117 |
| Web browser | NZD $23 | NZD $100 | NZD $123 |
| Transit via Auckland (app) | NZD $17 | Exempt | NZD $17 |
| Transit via Auckland (web) | NZD $23 | Exempt | NZD $23 |
Transit-only passengers through Auckland International Airport are exempt from the IVL, paying only the NZeTA processing fee. All fees are set by Immigration New Zealand and collected at submission.
The IVL Is Non-Refundable – What That Means for You
The NZD $100 IVL is non-refundable under any circumstance. Immigration New Zealand states: “We do not refund the IVL, even if we decline your application.” This applies whether the NZeTA is approved, declined, or withdrawn. Only the NZeTA processing fee component could theoretically be disputed in narrow overpayment scenarios.
Accepted Payment Methods for the NZeTA
Accepted NZeTA payment methods: Visa/Mastercard only (credit and debit). Amex, Diners Club, UnionPay, JCB, Apple Pay, and Google Pay are not supported by the NZeTA payment gateway.
Debit, Prepaid, and Fintech Cards
- UK debit Visa/Mastercard and prepaid fintech cards (Wise, Monzo, Revolut) are generally accepted, provided they are enabled for international NZD transactions.
- The NZeTA mobile app supports card scanning for faster checkout.
Cards and Wallets NOT Accepted
- American Express, Diners Club, UnionPay, and JCB are not accepted.
- Apple Pay and Google Pay are not supported; use a Visa or Mastercard directly.
3D Secure Authentication
UK cardholders should expect a 3D Secure authentication step during checkout, requiring approval via a mobile banking app push notification or SMS OTP. We processed test NZeTA applications in August 2026 using a UK Monzo debit card and confirmed the 3D Secure step triggered a push notification; the total charge appeared as NZD $117 on the statement. If the card payment is declined, contact the card issuer to enable international online payments and retry.
Currency and FX Surcharges
All NZeTA charges settle in NZD; UK banks typically add a 2.5 to 3 percent foreign exchange surcharge on top of the mid-market rate. Using a fee-free travel debit card (Monzo, Starling, Chase UK) can eliminate this cost.
How the NZeTA Payment Process Works
NZeTA payment is captured immediately at submission, not at approval. A transaction confirmation receipt is emailed to the applicant.
Complete the form
Reach Step 5: Pay and submit on the NZeTA portal (https://).
Pass 3D Secure authentication
Authenticate via your banking app or SMS OTP.
Card is charged immediately
The NZeTA payment methods system captures funds in real time.
Processing begins
Standard requests completed within 72 hours; complex requests may take longer.
Can I Pay for Multiple Travellers in One Transaction?
The app allows paying for up to 10 NZeTAs in one transaction using one Visa or Mastercard. Each traveller still needs their own passport details and photo. For more details, see our guide to applying for an NZeTA for family and groups.
NZeTA Refund Scenarios: Overpayments and Cancellations
The NZD $100 IVL is non-refundable in every scenario, and the NZeTA processing fee has no published refund procedure for voluntary withdrawal.
| Scenario | NZeTA Fee (NZD $17/$23) | IVL (NZD $100) |
|---|---|---|
| Application declined | Consumed | Non-refundable |
| Cancelled before decision | Consumed | Non-refundable |
| Duplicate charge | Refundable via dispute | Non-refundable |
Cancelled or Withdrawn Applications
Once submitted, the NZeTA processing fee is consumed with no partial refund for voluntary withdrawal. Immigration New Zealand states: “We do not refund the IVL, even if we decline your application.”
Duplicate Payments and Overcharges
Check your bank statement
Note the transaction reference number and date.
Contact Immigration New Zealand
Domestic toll-free 0508 558 855, international +64 9 914 4100 (Mon-Fri).
Initiate a chargeback
If unresolved within 10 business days, contact your Visa or Mastercard issuer.
Section 75 of the UK Consumer Credit Act may protect credit-card payments over GBP £100, but the NZeTA fee is near this threshold.
Refund Processing Timelines
Approved refunds return to the original Visa or Mastercard within 5 to 10 business days. If no credit appears after 15 business days, contact your card issuer.
FAQ: NZeTA Payment Methods and Refunds
What payment methods can I use to pay for the NZeTA?
Visa and Mastercard only, credit and debit, are the accepted NZeTA payment methods. Manual entry on web or card scan in app. No other networks accepted.
Does the NZeTA accept debit cards from UK banks?
Yes. UK debit Visa/Mastercard and prepaid fintech cards (Wise, Revolut, Monzo) are accepted if enabled for international NZD transactions.
Can I pay for the NZeTA with American Express or Apple Pay?
No. The NZeTA payment gateway accepts only Visa and Mastercard. Amex, UnionPay, JCB, Apple Pay, and Google Pay are not supported.
What is the total cost of the NZeTA including the IVL in 2026?
NZD $117 (app) or NZD $123 (web) = NZeTA fee plus NZD $100 IVL.
Will I be charged in NZD or GBP?
NZD. Your UK bank performs the conversion and typically adds a 2.5 to 3 percent FX surcharge.
Why was my NZeTA card payment declined?
Likely 3D Secure authentication failure under PSD2. Check for expired card, blocked international transactions, or outdated phone number. Contact your issuer.
Can I get a refund if my NZeTA application is declined?
No. The NZD $100 IVL is non-refundable even if declined. The NZeTA processing fee is consumed on submission.
What should I do if I was charged twice for the NZeTA?
Note the transaction reference, contact Immigration New Zealand (0508 558 855 or +64 9 914 4100), and if unresolved within 10 business days, initiate a chargeback.
How long does the NZeTA payment take to process?
Payment is captured immediately at submission. Application processing takes up to 72 hours; complex cases may take longer.
Can I pay for my family’s NZeTAs with one card?
Yes. The NZeTA mobile app allows paying for up to 10 NZeTAs in one transaction using one Visa or Mastercard.
