When you can get refunds on some visa application fees

When you apply for a visa or submit an expression of interest (EOI), you are normally charged a fee to cover the cost of processing. You can request a refund, but they are given only in special circumstances.

When you can get a refund

You can apply for a refund if your visa application has not been processed, or you withdraw your EOI. We consider each request individually.

We may give you a refund for reasons such as:

• you paid the application fee but you did not need to
• you paid the wrong fee
• your application is not accepted and is returned to you.

When you cannot get a refund

You cannot get a refund if:

• your application has been processed, even if it was declined 
• you change your mind about your application
• your EOI has been selected
• your EOI has not been selected and has lapsed.

How to apply for a refund

To apply for a refund, complete the request form and send it to us, along with your supporting information. You will need to provide:

• a copy of the receipt of the application fee
• proof of your bank account
• authorisation from the original fee payer (if you did not pay the original application fee). 

Visitor, study, work and critical purpose visas

If you are in New Zealand, you can send your request by courier to:

Immigration New Zealand

DX Box: EP71514

20 Fairfax Avenue

Penrose

Auckland 1061

If you are applying from outside of New Zealand, you can email your request to us.

Email: visaapplicationfee@mbie.govt.nz

Resident visas and expressions of interest

Send the request to the same office that you sent your application to. If you applied online, check the 'Fees, decision times and where to apply' page for the office that handles applications for your location.

Fees, decision times and where to apply