Official Update on VAC Service Fee Changes Effective January 2026
From 1 January 2026, applicants submitting New Zealand visa applications through Visa Application Centres (VACs) in selected countries will be required to pay a revised service fee. This adjustment applies exclusively to VAC service charges and does not alter Immigration New Zealand’s visa application fees. The revision aligns with inflationary pressures and increased operational costs across global VAC networks.
This update directly impacts applicants lodging Temporary Visa, New Zealand Residence Visa, Student Visa New Zealand, NZ Temporary Visa, and New Zealand Visitor Visa applications through outsourced VAC partners, including VFS Global.
Scope of the VAC Service Fee Increase
The revised VAC service fee applies only in specific countries and territories. Applicants applying from these locations must ensure they pay the updated amount at the time of submission to avoid processing delays or application rejection.
The increase applies to:
- Paper-based submissions at VACs
- Online applications requiring biometric enrolment at VACs
- Applications lodged through authorised VAC partners
Countries and Territories Where VAC Fees Are Increasing
Applicants submitting applications from the following countries and territories will be affected by the revised VAC service fee:
- Australia
- Bangladesh
- Fiji
- Hong Kong
- India
- Indonesia
- Iran
- Japan
- Nepal & Bhutan
- Pakistan
- Papua New Guinea
- Philippines
- Samoa
- Singapore
- Solomon Islands
- South Africa
- South Korea
- Sri Lanka
- Taiwan
- Thailand
- Turkey
- United Arab Emirates
- United Kingdom
- United States
- Vanuatu
- Vietnam
Each location may have country-specific pricing, depending on local operating costs and services offered by the VAC.
How to Check the Correct VAC Service Fee Before Applying
Applicants must verify the exact VAC service fee applicable to their country before submission. Immigration New Zealand provides an official online fee-checking tool that calculates the correct amount based on:
- Country of application
- Visa category
- Application submission method
In addition, VAC partner websites, such as VFS Global, publish updated fee tables that reflect local currency amounts and payment methods.
Where the VAC Service Fee Fits in the Application Process
The VAC service fee is charged separately from:
- Immigration New Zealand visa application fees
- International visitor conservation and tourism levy (if applicable)
- Medical, police, or translation costs
Failure to pay the correct VAC service fee can result in:
- Incomplete submission
- Delays in biometric enrolment
- Application return without processing
Practical Guidance for Applicants Applying in Late 2025
Applicants planning to lodge their visa application on or after 1 January 2026 should:
- Budget for the increased VAC service fee
- Avoid assuming 2025 fee structures remain valid
- Confirm payment methods accepted by the local VAC
- Retain payment receipts for records and follow-ups
Applications submitted before 1 January 2026 remain subject to the existing VAC service fee structure at the time of submission.
Key Takeaways for New Zealand Visa Applicants
- The VAC service fee increase takes effect 1 January 2026
- It applies only in listed countries and territories
- Immigration New Zealand visa fees remain unchanged
- Applicants must verify fees using official tools or VAC websites
- Paying the correct VAC fee is essential for timely processing
Staying Compliant With VAC Fee Requirements
Accurate fee verification and timely payment are critical components of a compliant New Zealand visa application. Applicants are advised to complete final checks immediately before submission to ensure alignment with the updated VAC service fee framework and avoid unnecessary delays.
This structured approach ensures applications progress smoothly under the revised 2026 VAC service fee regime.
How Immigration Chambers Can Help With Your New Zealand Visa
Immigration Chambers assist applicants at every stage of the New Zealand visa process, including eligibility assessment, document preparation, VAC fee verification, compliant submissions, and ongoing case support, ensuring your application meets Immigration New Zealand’s latest requirements without delays.
Get in touch with our Immigration Lawyer in Auckland for expert guidance, accurate fee checks, and a smooth New Zealand visa application process tailored to your circumstances.
Additional Support Through Our YouTube Channel
For clear explanations, policy updates, and answers to common visa questions, visit our Immigration Chambers YouTube channel, where we share easy-to-understand videos and shorts on New Zealand visa processes and immigration changes.
FAQs
1. What is the VAC service fee for New Zealand visas?
The VAC service fee is a separate charge paid to Visa Application Centres for handling, biometrics, and document processing when submitting a New Zealand visa application.
2. Is the New Zealand VAC service fee increasing in 2026?
Yes. The VAC service fee for New Zealand visa applications is increasing for selected countries from 1 January 2026.
3. When do the new VAC service fees apply for New Zealand visas?
The new VAC service fees apply to all applications submitted on or after 1 January 2026.
4. Does the VAC fee increase apply to all countries?
No. The increase applies only to specific countries and territories where Visa Application Centres operate.
5. Which countries have higher VAC fees for New Zealand visas in 2026?
Countries include India, Australia, the UK, the USA, UAE, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Singapore, South Africa, and several others.
6. Are New Zealand visa application fees also increasing in 2026?
No. Only the VAC service fee is changing. Immigration New Zealand visa application fees remain the same.
7. How can I check the correct VAC service fee before applying?
You can check the correct VAC service fee using Immigration New Zealand’s online fee tool or the official VFS Global website for your country.
8. What happens if I pay the wrong VAC service fee?
If you pay the wrong VAC service fee, your application may be delayed, returned, or not processed.
9. Do I have to pay a VAC fee for online New Zealand visa applications?
Yes. If biometrics or document handling is required, the VAC service fee applies even for online applications.
10. Is the VAC service fee refundable if my visa is refused?
No. The VAC service fee is non-refundable, regardless of whether your visa is approved or declined.
11. Do children and dependants pay the VAC service fee?
Yes. Each applicant, including children and dependants, must pay the applicable VAC service fee unless exempt.
12. Should I apply before January 2026 to avoid higher VAC fees?
Yes. Applications submitted before 1 January 2026 are charged under the existing VAC fee structure.
13. Can Immigration Chambers help with VAC fees and NZ visa applications?
Yes. Immigration Chambers helps verify correct VAC fees, prepare compliant applications, and guide applicants through the New Zealand visa process.
14. Who should I contact for expert New Zealand visa advice in Auckland?
You can contact an Immigration Chambers Immigration Lawyer in Auckland for professional and reliable New Zealand visa assistance.