Immigration adviser fees in New Zealand
Updated 23 July 2026
Licensed immigration advisers in New Zealand set their own fees, so prices vary widely between advisers and case types. What is consistent is the rulebook: the IAA code of conduct requires fees to be fair and reasonable, agreed in writing before work starts, and itemised so you can see what you are paying for. Government fees to Immigration New Zealand are always separate from, and additional to, the adviser's professional fee.
How advisers structure their fees
Most advisers use one of three structures. A fixed fee covers a defined piece of work, such as preparing and filing a specific visa application. An hourly rate bills time as it is spent, which suits open-ended or unpredictable matters. Staged fees split a matter into phases, such as assessment, preparation and filing, each with its own price.
Many advisers offer an initial consultation, which may be free or paid. A paid initial assessment is normal and is not a red flag; it is often where the adviser tells you honestly whether your case is worth pursuing.
What the code of conduct requires
The Licensed Immigration Advisers Code of Conduct requires advisers to charge fees that are fair and reasonable in the circumstances, to give you a written agreement setting out services and fees before work begins, and to invoice against that agreement. An adviser who wants payment with no written agreement is breaching the code, and that alone is reason to walk away.
What affects the price
- Case complexity, such as declined histories, health or character issues, or tight deadlines
- The visa category, since residence applications generally involve more work than temporary visas
- The adviser's experience and licence tenure
- Urgency, because short deadlines compress the work
- Whether third parties are involved, such as employers in accredited employer work visa matters
How to compare quotes
Get more than one written quote for the same scope of work and check what each includes: government fees, disbursements, and what happens if Immigration New Zealand asks follow-up questions. The cheapest quote is not automatically the best value, and a licence you can verify plus a clear written agreement matter more than a small price difference. Every adviser's licence status and tenure can be checked on this directory or the official register.
Frequently asked questions
- Do immigration advisers have a standard fee in New Zealand?
- No. Advisers set their own fees. The IAA code of conduct requires fees to be fair and reasonable and agreed in writing before work starts, but it does not set amounts.
- Are Immigration New Zealand fees included in an adviser's fee?
- No. Government application fees and levies are paid to Immigration New Zealand and are separate from the adviser's professional fee. A written agreement should show both clearly.
- Can I get a refund if my visa is declined?
- That depends on your written agreement. Advisers cannot guarantee a visa outcome, and fees usually pay for the work, not the result. Check the refund terms in the agreement before signing.
Sources
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General information, not immigration advice. Rules change; always check the linked official sources.