New Zealand entry requirements for Cambodia passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed June 28, 2026·View sources
Visa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Cambodian passport holders must obtain a visa before traveling to New Zealand. There is no visa on arrival or visa waiver for KH passport holders. Apply for a visitor visa well in advance, as processing can take several weeks.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Visa application Apply for a visitor visa before travel | Cambodian passport holders need a standard visitor visa before flying to New Zealand. Apply online at the New Zealand Immigration website — processing takes 20–25 days for most applications. You will need to upload bank statements, flight itinerary, and accommodation bookings as part of the application.Apply for visitor visa | Required |
| Valid passport Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended departure date | Your passport needs at least 3 months validity beyond the date you plan to leave New Zealand. Airlines check this at check-in — if your passport expires sooner, you will be denied boarding. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Required for visa application and at the border | Immigration officers at Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch airports routinely ask for proof of onward travel. Have a printed or digital copy of your return ticket or a ticket to your next destination ready. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Recommended to carry hotel bookings or host invitation | While not mandatory at the border, having confirmed hotel reservations or a letter of invitation from a host makes the visa process smoother. Immigration officers may ask where you are staying during your visit. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Recommended to show you can support yourself | Carry bank statements showing at least NZD 1,000 per month of your stay, or a credit card with sufficient limit. Immigration officers rarely ask for this for short visits, but it helps if questioned. | Recommended |
Apply early — processing takes weeks
New Zealand visitor visa processing for Cambodian passport holders can take 20–30 days or longer. Do not book non-refundable flights or accommodation until your visa is approved.
New Zealand Traveller Declaration required
All passengers must complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration online within 24 hours before departure. It's free and covers customs, biosecurity, and health. Do it on your phone before you head to the airport.
Biosecurity is strict — declare everything
New Zealand has very strict biosecurity laws. Declare any food, plants, animal products, camping gear, or sports equipment. Fines for undeclared items can be NZD $400 or more. When in doubt, declare it.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for a visitor visa online
Go to the Immigration New Zealand website and create an account. Fill out the visitor visa application form, upload your passport scan, photo, and supporting documents. Pay the fee (around NZD $246 for a standard visitor visa). Processing typically takes 20–30 days, but can be longer during peak periods.
2
Wait for visa decision
Check your application status online. You may be asked to provide additional documents or attend an interview at the New Zealand embassy in Bangkok (if you're applying from Cambodia). Once approved, you'll receive an eVisa via email — print it or save it on your phone.
3
Prepare for arrival in New Zealand
Before you fly, make sure you have: your passport (valid 6+ months), your eVisa approval, return ticket, accommodation booking, and travel insurance. At the airport, you'll go through immigration — have these documents ready. You'll also need to complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration online within 24 hours before departure.
4
Arrive and clear immigration
At Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch airport, follow signs to the 'Arrivals' hall. Present your passport and visa to the immigration officer. They may ask about your travel plans, accommodation, and funds. Answer honestly. After clearance, collect your luggage and proceed through customs (biosecurity is strict — declare food, plants, or outdoor gear).
Download New Zealand Entry Checklist
PDF · Cambodia Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated June 28, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stayUp to 9 months
ValidityUp to 18 months from issue date
CostNZD 211 (~USD 130)
For tourism or visiting family/friends.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stayUp to 9 months per visit
ValidityUp to 18 months from issue date
CostNZD 422 (~USD 260)
Ideal for frequent travelers.
Work visa
Max stayVaries by job offer
ValidityUp to 3 years
CostNZD 495 (~USD 305)
Requires a job offer from a New Zealand employer.
Student visa
Max stayDuration of course
ValidityUp to 4 years
CostNZD 330 (~USD 203)
Must be enrolled in an approved course.
work visa
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
Indefinite, with pathway to permanent residence
NZD 4,290 (~USD 2,640)
For skilled workers with a job offer in an occupation on New Zealand's skill shortage list. Requires points-based assessment.
Apply student visa
Student Visa
Duration of course, up to 4 years
NZD 330 (~USD 203)
For full-time study at an approved institution. Allows part-time work during term and full-time during holidays.
Apply investor visa
Investor 1 Resident Visa
Indefinite, with pathway to permanent residence
NZD 4,290 (~USD 2,640)
For high-net-worth individuals investing NZD 10 million in New Zealand over 3 years. No age or language requirements.
Apply Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tourist visa (single entry)Standard fee for a single-entry visitor visa. | NZD 211 (~USD 130) |
| Tourist visa (multiple entry)Allows multiple entries within validity period. | NZD 422 (~USD 260) |
| Overstay fine per dayMaximum cap may apply; avoid overstay. | NZD 100 (~USD 62) per day |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete application20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through New Zealand
Transit visa required
Cambodia passport holders need a transit visa to change planes in New Zealand, even if staying airside.
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of a valid Australian permanent resident visa or Australian resident return visa may transit without visa.
- Holders of a valid New Zealand residence visa may transit without visa.
Transit hubsAuckland Airport (AKL) · Christchurch Airport (CHC) · Wellington Airport (WLG)
Health & vaccines for New Zealand
Recommended vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, polio, etc.)EssentialHepatitis ARecommendedTyphoidConsiderInfluenzaRecommended
Health risks
Seasonal influenzaModerate risk
Common during winter months (June–September).
CampylobacteriosisLow risk
Foodborne illness from undercooked poultry or contaminated water.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Auckland
Immigration New Zealand Auckland Office
Level 3, 46 Sale Street, Auckland CBD
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
For visa applications and inquiries; appointments recommended.
Wellington
Immigration New Zealand Wellington Office
Level 4, 45 Pipitea Street, Wellington
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Head office; handles complex cases.
Practical information for KH travellers
Country basics
CapitalWellington
LanguageEnglish, Māori
Driving sideLeft-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS license valid for up to 12 months.
Money
CurrencyNew Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 1.76 NZD
Time zone
Local timeUTC+12
vs New York+17h (EST) / +16h (EDT)
vs Los Angeles+20h (PST) / +19h (PDT)
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
IType I — same as Australia. US plugs do not fit. Bring an adapter.
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Safe to drink
Safe to drink throughout New Zealand.
Emergency numbers
Getting to New Zealand
Nearby destinations you can also visit
Countries close to New Zealand — with your same passport.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. There is no visa waiver or visa on arrival for Cambodian passport holders. You must apply for a visitor visa before you travel.
Processing times vary, but typically 20–30 days. Apply at least 2 months before your planned travel date to be safe. During peak season (November–February), it can take longer.
The standard visitor visa fee is NZD $246 (approximately USD $150). This is non-refundable even if your application is denied.
Yes, you can apply for a visa extension before your current visa expires. Extensions are granted on a case-by-case basis, usually for up to 3 additional months. The extension fee is NZD $246.
Have your passport (valid 6+ months), eVisa approval, return ticket, accommodation booking, and proof of funds ready. The officer may also ask about your travel plans and insurance.
It is not legally required for entry, but it is strongly recommended. Medical costs in New Zealand are high — a single hospital visit can cost hundreds of dollars. Insurance covers accidents, illness, and trip disruptions.
You will receive a letter explaining the reason. Common reasons include insufficient funds, unclear travel plans, or missing documents. You can reapply with stronger evidence, but the fee is non-refundable. Consider consulting an immigration advisor.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on June 28, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.