What is New Zealand eTA?

Visitors and airport passengers travelling to New Zealand can enter with an Online New Zealand Visa or New Zealand eTA before they travel. Citizens of around 60 countries known as Visa-Waiver countries do not require a visa to enter New Zealand. New Zealand eTA was introduced in 2019.

If you are planning a trip to New Zealand, then you may not be allowed to enter the country without New Zealand eTA or Online New Zealand Visa.

The New Zealand eTA (or Online New Zealand Visa) is an electronic authorisation, which provides you with the authority to enter New Zealand, allowing you to stay in New Zealand for up to 6 months within a 12-month period.

Eligiblity requirements for New Zealand eTA

You must be from one of the Visa Waiver countries.
You must not arrive for a medical treatment.
You must not have any criminal convictions and be of good character.
You must have a valid Credit / Debit card .
You must have a valid email account.

Transiting New Zealand

If you are a passport holder of one of the transit visa waiver country, then you can transit from Auckland International Airport without requiring a Visa for New Zealand.
It is mandatory to apply for New Zealand eTA (NZeTA) even for transiting through New Zealand.

Validity of Online New Zealand Visa (or New Zealand eTA)

Once New Zealand eTA (NZeTA) is issued, it is valid for up to 2 years from the date of issue and is valid for multiple entries. A visit per entry is valid for 90 days for all nationalities. UK citizens can visit New Zealand on NZeTA for upto 180 days.

New Zealand or Australian citizen do not require a New Zealand eTA (NZeTA) or a New Zealand Visitor Visa to visit New Zealand.

Application Form for New Zealand eTA

You can acquire New Zealand eTA by filling an online application form. You will need to fill in your first name, family name, date of birth and other personal details, passport details and travel details. Once the form has been completed, you will need to make a payment online using your Debit/Credit card.

Visa required nationalities for New Zealand

If your nationality is not amongst with 60 Visa waiver countries, then you need a New Zealand Visitor Visa instead of Online New Zealand Visa or New Zealand eTA.
Also, if you wish to stay in New Zealand for longer than 6 months, then you need to apply for a Visitor Visa instead of an NZeTA.