You can only get a refund in special circumstances. Each request is considered on a case by case basis.
You cannot get a refund if your application has been completed, even if it was declined. This is because the fee you pay covers the costs of assessing your application.
You can apply for a refund if your visa application has not been completed, but refunds are only given in special circumstances. You cannot get a refund if you change your mind about your application.
Situations where fee refunds apply can include:
To apply for a refund:
If you are in New Zealand, your refund request can either be:
If you are applying from outside New Zealand, contact your nearest visa application centre (VAC). Ask them if they will email your refund request to us on your behalf.
Visa application centres outside New Zealand
If the VAC will not email your request, you can send it using our courier address. This may mean it takes longer to process your request.