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If you’re planning to visit New Zealand, you’ll likely come across the term International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL). This levy was introduced by the New Zealand government to support tourism infrastructure and environmental conservation, helping the country manage its growing influx of visitors while protecting its natural resources.

What is the New Zealand IVL?

The International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) is a fee that most international visitors must pay when applying for a visa or the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA). This fee contributes to maintaining New Zealand’s environmental and tourism infrastructure. Introduced in 2019, the levy supports projects that protect the country’s unique natural heritage, including its famous landscapes and biodiversity.

The levy aims to ensure that visitors contribute directly to the upkeep of the natural and cultural sites they enjoy during their stay, helping preserve these assets for future generations.

Who Needs to Pay the IVL?

Most people entering New Zealand for tourism purposes are required to pay the International Visitor Levy. This includes individuals applying for visitor visas or NZeTAs, which are mandatory for many travelers, including cruise passengers. Visitors entering on working holiday visas, specific purpose visas, and work-exchange schemes are also subject to this fee.

However, there are exceptions. You do not need to pay it if you are a New Zealand or Australian passport holder, hold a New Zealand resident visa, or are transiting through the country. Additionally, visitors from certain Pacific Island nations are exempt from the Levy​.

For those interested in learning more about visa exemptions or submitting visa applications, government portals offer NZeTA Visa Information and easy options to Submit NZeTA Online.

How Much Does the IVL Cost?

As of October 2024, the International Visitor Levy fee is set at NZD 100. This increase from the previous NZD 35 reflects the rising costs of managing both tourism growth and environmental preservation projects​. The IVL is collected when you apply for a visa or an NZeTA and must be paid each time you request one.

How is the IVL Used?

The funds collected through the IVL are divided across three main areas:

1. Environmental Conservation: A significant portion of the funds is directed towards conservation projects that protect New Zealand’s ecosystems. This includes efforts to safeguard native species, restore natural habitats, and promote sustainable tourism practices. Protecting endangered wildlife, such as the kiwi bird, is a key focus of these projects.
2. Tourism Infrastructure: It also supports the development and improvement of tourism infrastructure. This includes enhancing visitor facilities, improving access to tourist sites, and ensuring public amenities can cope with the growing number of visitors. This investment helps ensure tourists have a pleasant and safe experience while traveling through New Zealand.
3. Tourism Systems: A portion of the levy is used to develop and maintain systems that improve the visitor experience, such as digital platforms that provide tourist information. These systems help visitors navigate the country efficiently and enhance their overall experience​.

Projects Funded by the IVL

It has funded various projects aimed at preserving the environment and enhancing the tourism sector. Examples include conservation efforts to protect endangered wildlife, restoration of coastal and forest areas, and upgrading public facilities at popular tourist spots. It also supports the development of educational programs that promote sustainable tourism practices, ensuring that visitors are aware of their impact on the environment.

One example is the enhancement of New Zealand’s famous walking trails, ensuring they remain accessible and environmentally sustainable despite high visitor numbers. Other initiatives include upgrading waste management systems in rural tourist areas, reducing the environmental footprint of tourism​.

When to Pay the Levy?

You must pay the International Visitor Levy when you apply for your visa or NZeTA. If your travel plans require multiple visas or NZeTA requests, you will need to pay the levy each time. It’s important to note that the levy is non-refundable, even if your visa application is declined​.

The Importance of the IVL

New Zealand is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, and preserving these natural treasures is vital. With millions of visitors every year, the pressure on New Zealand’s natural environment is substantial. The IVL allows international visitors to contribute towards the conservation efforts that keep these landscapes beautiful.

Moreover, by funding infrastructure upgrades, the IVL ensures that New Zealand can continue to host tourists safely and comfortably, making it a win-win situation for both the environment and the tourism industry​. This levy also aligns with ecotourism, a concept that promotes responsible travel to natural areas, which contributes to conservation efforts while benefiting local economies.

Conclusion

The International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) is an essential part of New Zealand’s strategy to balance tourism growth with environmental sustainability. By paying this levy, visitors play a direct role in helping to protect and preserve the country’s unique landscapes and wildlife while ensuring future travelers can enjoy the same beauty. For international visitors, the levy is a small price to pay for the privilege of exploring one of the world’s most beautiful destinations while knowing they are contributing to its conservation.

For more information, you can visit our website (nzeta-visa.org) or review the details when applying for your visa or NZeTA.