Understanding the IVL Fee: International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy

When applying for your NZeTA, you'll notice the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) included in the total cost. This guide explains what the IVL is, why it exists, and how it benefits New Zealand's environment and tourism infrastructure.

What is the IVL?

The International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) is a mandatory fee of $35 NZD (approximately $23 USD) charged to most international visitors to New Zealand. Introduced in July 2019, the IVL is collected along with your NZeTA application.

Why Was the IVL Introduced?

Tourism places significant pressure on New Zealand's infrastructure and natural environment. The IVL was implemented to:

• Help manage the impact of tourism on the environment
• Maintain and improve tourism infrastructure
• Protect New Zealand's unique conservation areas
• Ensure tourism is sustainable for future generations

Who Pays the IVL?

Visitors Who Must Pay

The IVL is required for:

• All visa waiver country citizens applying for an NZeTA
• Most visitor visa applicants
• Cruise ship passengers (the levy may be included in your fare)

Exemptions

Some travelers are exempt from the IVL:

• Australian citizens and permanent residents
• New Zealand citizens and residents
• Citizens of most Pacific Island countries
• Children under 2 years old
• Transit passengers who don't leave the airport
• Certain visa types (work, student, resident visas)

How Much is the IVL?

The IVL is a fixed fee of $35 NZD. This fee is:

• Non-refundable
• Valid for the same period as your NZeTA (2 years or until passport expiry)
• Covers multiple entries during the validity period
• Included in your total NZeTA application fee

How is the IVL Collected?

The IVL is collected as part of your NZeTA application fee. When you apply through our service, the total cost includes:

• NZeTA processing fee
• International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy ($35 NZD)
• Service fee (for express processing if selected)

You pay everything together in one transaction, making the process simple and convenient.

What Does the IVL Fund?

Conservation Projects

Approximately half of the IVL funds go toward environmental conservation:

• Department of Conservation (DOC) projects
• Maintaining national parks and walking tracks
• Protecting native species and ecosystems
• Restoring natural habitats
• Pest control programs
• Conservation facilities and visitor centers

Tourism Infrastructure

The other half supports tourism infrastructure improvements:

• Upgrading tourist facilities
• Improving visitor safety
• Maintaining tourist attractions
• Supporting regional tourism development
• Enhancing visitor experiences
• Managing tourism hotspots

Benefits to Visitors

While the IVL is an additional cost, it directly benefits your New Zealand experience:

• Better Facilities: Well-maintained trails, viewing platforms, and amenities
• Preserved Natural Beauty: Protected landscapes and wildlife for you to enjoy
• Safer Travel: Improved safety features at tourist sites
• Enhanced Experiences: Quality visitor centers and interpretive displays
• Sustainable Tourism: Ensuring New Zealand remains beautiful for future visits

IVL in Context

The IVL is comparable to similar fees charged by other countries:

• Australia charges an AUD $20 passenger movement charge
• Many US national parks charge entrance fees
• Some European cities charge tourism taxes
• Various countries have airport departure taxes

At $35 NZD, New Zealand's IVL is relatively modest and provides exceptional value considering the extensive conservation areas and tourism infrastructure you can access.

How Long is the IVL Valid?

The IVL is valid for the same period as your NZeTA:

• 2 years from the date of approval, OR
• Until your passport expires (whichever comes first)

You can make multiple trips to New Zealand during this period without paying the IVL again, as long as your NZeTA remains valid.

Refunds and Changes

The IVL is non-refundable, even if:

• You cancel your trip
• Your NZeTA application is declined
• You don't use your NZeTA during its validity period

However, if you make multiple trips within the 2-year validity period, you only pay the IVL once, providing good value for frequent visitors.

Environmental Impact

New Zealand is renowned for its pristine natural environment. The IVL helps manage the environmental impact of tourism by:

• Funding pest control in conservation areas
• Maintaining backcountry huts and tracks
• Protecting endangered species
• Managing waste at tourist sites
• Preventing environmental degradation

Transparency and Accountability

The New Zealand government publishes annual reports showing how IVL funds are allocated and spent, ensuring transparency in how your contribution is used.

Your Contribution Makes a Difference

By paying the IVL as part of your NZeTA application, you're directly contributing to:

• Preserving New Zealand's unique natural heritage
• Maintaining world-class tourism facilities
• Protecting endangered species
• Ensuring sustainable tourism
• Enhancing visitor safety and experiences

The next time you enjoy a scenic walking track, spot native wildlife, or visit a well-maintained tourist attraction in New Zealand, remember that your IVL contribution helped make it possible.

Ready to apply for your NZeTA and contribute to New Zealand's conservation efforts? Start your application today. For more information about NZeTA and the IVL, visit www.nzeta.nz.