The New Zealand government plans to increase the cost of tourist visas by 63% and nearly triple the existing tax for foreign tourists starting October 1. Since 2019, the country has implemented the International Visitor Levy (IVL) aimed at conservation efforts, currently set at $22. However, this fee will rise to $62 in October.
Matt Doocey, New Zealand’s Minister of Hospitality and Tourism, explained in a statement that international tourism imposes costs on local communities, including additional pressure on regional infrastructure and higher maintenance expenses for national parks. Between March 2023 and March 2024, international tourists contributed $11 billion to the economy through this tax.
Additionally, the consular fee for processing tourist visas will increase from $131 to $211 as of October 1.
Currently, citizens from 60 countries and territories can enter New Zealand without a visa. Around 60 destinations globally have introduced entry fees for foreign visitors, which must be paid in addition to airfare, accommodation, and food expenses. The rationale behind such fees is to offset the damage caused by high visitor numbers to historic sites and the environment, as well as to mitigate other side effects of overtourism.
