Quick answer
In New Zealand, immigration lawyers typically charge $250 – $500 per hour. Common fixed-fee work is shown below.
Typical immigration law fees
| Service | Typical NZ fee |
|---|---|
| Hourly rate | $250 – $500/hr |
| Visitor visa | $1,000 – $2,500 |
| Work visa | $2,000 – $4,500 |
| Skilled Migrant residency | $3,500 – $7,500 |
| Section 61 request after overstay | $1,500 – $3,500 |
| IPT deportation appeal | $5,000 – $20,000+ |
Ranges reflect typical NZ market pricing observed across published firm fee guides and Ministry of Justice / NZ Law Society published rates (e.g. court filing fees). Individual firms vary widely. Always get a written engagement letter under Rule 3 of the Lawyers and Conveyancers Act (Conduct & Client Care) Rules 2008 before instructing.
What drives the cost
- • Visa category (visitor vs residency)
- • Whether character or health waivers are required
- • Complexity of evidence (employment, partnership)
- • Whether the matter goes to IPT or judicial review
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Frequently asked questions
How much does an immigration lawyer cost in NZ? ▾
Hourly rates run $250 – $500. Work visa applications are commonly $2,000 – $4,500. Skilled Migrant residency $3,500 – $7,500. Deportation appeals to the Immigration and Protection Tribunal can exceed $20,000 in complex cases.
Should I use a lawyer or a licensed immigration adviser? ▾
For straightforward visas, a licensed immigration adviser is usually adequate and lower-cost. For deportation, IPT appeals, judicial review of INZ decisions, or matters with criminal-history complications, a lawyer is the right choice.
Are INZ application fees included in lawyer fees? ▾
No — INZ fees are paid directly to Immigration NZ and are separate from your lawyer's fees. They range from a few hundred dollars for a visitor visa to over $4,000 for residency.
Related
Information only — not legal advice. Fees vary by firm, region and matter complexity. Always obtain a written engagement letter under Rule 3 of the Lawyers and Conveyancers Act (Lawyers: Conduct and Client Care) Rules 2008 before instructing.