New Zealand entry requirements for Laos 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
Laos passport holders need a visa to enter New Zealand. You must apply for a visitor visa online before you travel — there is no visa on arrival. Plan ahead, as processing can take several weeks.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Visa application Apply before travel | You need a visa to enter New Zealand. Apply online at the New Zealand Immigration website — the process takes a few days to a few weeks depending on your nationality. The visa is linked electronically to your passport, so no physical sticker is issued.Apply for visa | Required |
| Valid passport Must be valid for entire stay | Your passport must be valid for the full duration of your stay in New Zealand. No minimum validity beyond your departure date is required by New Zealand immigration, but airlines may enforce their own rules — check with your carrier before flying. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Required for entry | Immigration officers at Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch airports routinely ask for proof of onward travel. Have a printed or digital copy of your return flight or a ticket to your next destination ready. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Recommended to carry | While not always checked, having a hotel booking or a letter of invitation from a host can speed up the immigration interview. If you're staying with friends or family, ask them to provide a signed letter with their address and contact number. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Recommended to carry | Officers may ask how you'll support yourself during your stay. Carry bank statements or a credit card showing you have at least NZD 1,000 per month of your trip. Cash is less common — cards are widely accepted. | Recommended |
Apply early — no visa on arrival
New Zealand does not offer visa on arrival for Laos passport holders. Processing can take 20–30 days, so apply at least 2 months before your trip. Last-minute applications risk delays or denial.
Travel insurance is a smart investment
While not mandatory, medical costs in New Zealand are high. A simple hospital visit can cost hundreds of NZD. Travel insurance covers this and trip cancellations. Get it before you fly.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for a visitor visa online
Go to the Immigration New Zealand website and complete the visitor visa application. Upload your passport scan, photo, travel itinerary, and accommodation details. Pay the fee (around NZD 211). Processing typically takes 20–30 days.
2
Wait for visa approval
You'll receive an email with your visa decision. If approved, the visa is linked electronically to your passport. Print the approval letter or save it on your phone.
3
Prepare for arrival
Book your return ticket, first night accommodation, and travel insurance. Pack your passport, visa approval, and proof of funds. Download an eSIM or buy a local SIM at the airport.
4
Arrive at New Zealand airport
At Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch airports, proceed to the immigration queue. Present your passport and visa approval. The officer may ask about your plans, funds, and return ticket. Answer clearly. You'll get an entry stamp valid for up to 3 months.
Download New Zealand Entry Checklist
PDF · Laos 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
CostNZD 211 (~USD 130)
For tourism or visiting family. Must apply before travel.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stayUp to 9 months per visit
ValidityUp to 18 months from issue
CostNZD 211 (~USD 130)
Allows multiple entries; suitable for frequent travellers.
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)
For full-time study at an approved institution.
work visa
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
Indefinite (permanent residency)
NZD 3,310 (~USD 2,040)
For skilled workers with a job offer in an occupation on the skill shortage list. Requires points-based assessment.
Apply student visa
Student Visa (Full-time study)
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 (permanent residency)
NZD 4,750 (~USD 2,930)
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)Same fee as single entry, but allows multiple entries within validity. | NZD 211 (~USD 130) |
| Stay extensionFee for applying to extend visitor visa stay. | NZD 211 (~USD 130) |
| Overstay fine per dayPenalty for overstaying visa; may also lead to deportation. | NZD 100 (~USD 62) |
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
Laos passport holders need a transit visa to change planes in New Zealand, even if staying airside.
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of a valid New Zealand visa or resident visa may transit without a transit visa.
Transit hubsAuckland Airport (AKL) · Christchurch Airport (CHC) · Wellington Airport (WLG)
Health & vaccines for New Zealand
Recommended vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, varicella)EssentialHepatitis ARecommendedTyphoidConsiderInfluenzaRecommended
Health risks
Mosquito-borne diseases (rare)Low risk
Dengue and Ross River virus are rare but possible in some regions.
Food and water safetyLow risk
Generally safe, but standard precautions advised.
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 4, 46 Sale Street, Auckland CBD
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Main office for visa applications and inquiries.
Wellington
Immigration New Zealand Wellington Office
Level 4, 50 The Terrace, Wellington
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Head office; handles complex cases.
Practical information for LA 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
Nearby destinations you can also visit
Countries close to New Zealand — with your same passport.
Frequently asked questions
No. There is no visa on arrival for Laos passport holders. You must apply for a visitor visa online before you travel.
Processing typically takes 20–30 days, but can be longer during peak seasons. Apply at least 2 months before your planned travel date.
The standard visitor visa fee is NZD 211. This covers the application and processing. Fees are non-refundable if your visa is denied.
Most visitor visas allow a stay of up to 3 months (90 days) per visit. The exact duration is decided by the immigration officer and will be written on your visa label.
Yes. You must provide proof of a return or onward ticket as part of your visa application. Immigration wants to see you plan to leave New Zealand.
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date. If it expires during your stay, you may have trouble extending your visa or leaving. Renew your passport before you travel.
Yes, you can apply for a visa extension online before your current visa expires. Extensions are not guaranteed and cost around NZD 211. You must show a valid reason and sufficient funds.
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.