New Zealand eTA Application Requirements
Travellers seeking to enter New Zealand visa-free with an electronic travel authority (NZeTA) must fulfil certain requirements. These NZeTA requirements include having the necessary documents, meeting the entry criteria for NZeTA, and being citizens of visa-waiver countries. This page provides a comprehensive explanation of each of these requirements to facilitate the New Zealand eTA application process.
New Zealand Visa (NZeTA)
New Zealand eTA Application Form now allows visitors from all nationalities to obtain New Zealand eTA (NZETA) by email without visiting New Zealand Embassy. New Zealand Visa application process is automated, simple, and completely online. New Zealand Immigration now officially recommends Online New Zealand Visa or New Zealand ETA online rather than sending paper documents. You can obtain New Zealand eTA by filling out a form on this website and making the payment using a Debit or Credit Card. You will also require a valid email id as New Zealand eTA information will be sent to your email id. You do not need visit an embassy or consulate or to send your passport for Visa stamping. If you are arriving to New Zealand by the Cruise Ship route, you should check the New Zealand ETA eligibility conditions for Cruise Ship arrival to New Zealand.
NZeTA Requirements in terms of Documents required
To obtain the NZeTA (Electronic Travel Authority) for entry into New Zealand, foreign citizens must complete the online New Zealand eTA application form. The application requires the submission of specific documents to ensure a smooth process. The following items are necessary for a successful New Zealand eTA application:
- Eligible Passport: Applicants must possess a valid passport issued by their respective country. The passport should meet the requirements specified by New Zealand immigration authorities.
- Photograph of Applicant: A recent, clear, and passport-sized photograph of the applicant is required to be uploaded as part of the New Zealand eTA application. The photograph should comply with the specified guidelines regarding size, background, and quality.
- Debit or Credit Card: To complete the New Zealand eTA application process, applicants need a valid debit or credit card for payment of the required fees. The card should be accepted for online transactions.
READ MORE:
New Zealand has a new entry requirement known as the Online New Zealand Visa or eTA New Zealand Visa for short visits, vacations, or professional visitor activities. To enter New Zealand, all non-citizens must have a valid visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA). Learn more at Online New Zealand Visa.
NZeTA Requirements for Passport
When applying for the NZeTA (Electronic Travel Authority) for travel to New Zealand, it is essential to meet specific passport requirements. These requirements are outlined below to ensure a smooth application process:
- Eligible Passport: Applicants must possess a passport issued by one of the visa-waiver countries listed by New Zealand immigration authorities.
- Validity Period: The passport should have a validity period of at least 3 months beyond the intended departure date from New Zealand. It is crucial to ensure that the passport remains valid for the entire duration of the stay in New Zealand.
- Single Passport Usage: The same passport used for New Zealand eTA application must be used for travel to New Zealand. This requirement is particularly important for individuals with dual nationality. The NZeTA is electronically linked to the passport and is also sent to the applicant via email in PDF format, which can be printed.
The approved NZeTA contains the following information:
- Traveller's details
- Type of NZeTA
- Expiry date
It is essential for visitors to hold a valid travel authorization or visa throughout their entire stay in New Zealand. This includes the passport to which the travel permit is attached. Staying in New Zealand after the expiry of the travel document is considered unlawful and may result in deportation.
NZeTA Photograph Specifications:
Applicants are required to upload a digital photograph that meets specific criteria specified by NZeTA. The photograph should adhere to the following specifications:
- File size should be less than 10 MB.
- The photo should be in portrait mode.
- The image must be original without any editing or filters applied.
- The picture should be taken against a plain, light background.
- There should be no other individuals in the photograph.
- The subject should be looking directly at the camera with a neutral facial expression, eyes open, and mouth closed.
Payment Methods for NZeTA Fees and International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)
To complete the NZeTA (Electronic Travel Authority) application process, applicants are required to make payment for the associated fees. The fees for NZeTA and an additional International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) are paid securely online using a debit or credit card. This payment is the final stage before submitting the application.
- NZeTA Fees: The New Zealand eTA application incurs specific fees that vary depending on the traveler's nationality and the method of application. These fees contribute to the processing and administration of the NZeTA system.
- International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL): In addition to the NZeTA fees, there is an IVL fee implemented to support sustainable tourism and conservation efforts in New Zealand. The IVL fee is collected from international visitors and contributes to the preservation of New Zealand's natural environment and tourism infrastructure.
It is important to have a valid debit or credit card that is accepted for online transactions to complete the payment process for both the NZeTA fees and the IVL fee.
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Since 2019, NZeTA or New Zealand eTA has been made a necessary entry document needed by foreign citizens on arrival to New Zealand. New Zealand eTA or electronic travel authorisation would allow you to visit the country with the help of an electronic permit for a given period.
Learn more at How to visit New Zealand in a Visa-Free way.
Required Information and Good Character and Health Requirements for Traveling with NZeTA
To be eligible for the NZeTA (Electronic Travel Authority), travelers must provide specific information and meet certain requirements. The following information is required for the New Zealand eTA application:
- Full Name: The applicant's complete legal name as it appears on their passport.
- Gender: The gender of the applicant, indicated as male, female, or another appropriate option.
- Date of Birth: The applicant's date of birth to establish their age eligibility.
- Country of Citizenship: The country in which the applicant holds citizenship.
- Passport Number: The unique identification number assigned to the applicant's passport.
- Passport Issue and Expiry Date: The dates indicating when the passport was issued and when it is set to expire.
Additionally, applicants are asked questions about their character as part of New Zealand's good character requirements. To meet these requirements, visitors must satisfy the following criteria:
- No Serious Criminal Conviction: The applicant should not have a significant criminal conviction on their record.
- No Deportation, Removal, or Exclusion: The applicant should not have been previously deported, removed, or excluded from entering another country.
Furthermore, foreign travelers are expected to be in a good state of health. While specific medical documentation is not typically requested during the New Zealand eTA application, visitors should ensure they are in good health and meet general health requirements.
Conditions for Traveling with NZeTA to New Zealand
The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) is specifically designed for foreign nationals who intend to visit New Zealand for tourism, business meetings, and other events of a similar nature. Citizens of visa-waiver countries are eligible to apply for an NZeTA if they meet the following conditions:
- Purpose of Visit: The visit to New Zealand must be for tourism, business, or transit purposes.
- Duration of Stay: The duration of stay should not exceed 3 months, except for citizens of the United Kingdom who are permitted to stay for up to 6 months.
- Modes of Entry: NZeTA holders are allowed to enter New Zealand either by air or by cruise ship. In both cases, a valid visa waiver is required.
It is important to note that for purposes such as work, study, or staying in New Zealand for more than 90 days, a visa is required. The NZeTA is not applicable for such circumstances, and individuals must obtain the relevant visa to fulfill their specific purpose of visit.
NZeTA Requirements for Children Traveling to New Zealand
Children who are traveling to New Zealand from a visa waiver country are required to have an NZeTA (Electronic Travel Authority).
Similar to adults, minors must fulfill the NZeTA conditions in order to travel to New Zealand without the need for a separate visa.
Parents or legal guardians have the responsibility to complete the New Zealand eTA application on behalf of their child. However, it is important to note that each individual member of the family or group must have their own NZeTA travel authorization. This means that even children traveling with their parents or guardians need to have their own NZeTA.
It is crucial for parents or guardians to ensure that all necessary New Zealand eTA applications for their children are completed accurately and submitted alongside their own applications. This helps ensure compliance with New Zealand immigration requirements and facilitates a smooth travel experience for the entire family or group.
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Visitors from Visa Free nations, also known as Visa Waiver countries, must apply for an online electronic travel authorization in the form of a New Zealand eTA from 2019. Learn more at New Zealand Tourist Visa.
Requirements for Transit through New Zealand with NZeTA
Foreign citizens have the option to transit through Auckland International Airport (AKL) in New Zealand while en route to a third country. Passengers who are citizens of visa waiver countries can transit through Auckland airport with a valid NZeTA (Electronic Travel Authority).
When transiting through Auckland airport, passengers are required to adhere to the following conditions:
- Stay on the Aircraft: Passengers must remain on the aircraft during the transit and not disembark at Auckland airport.
- Remain in the Transit Area: Passengers should stay within the designated transit area of the airport. This area is specifically designated for transit passengers and allows them to wait for their connecting flight without entering New Zealand's domestic or international arrival areas.
- Transit Duration: The transit period should not exceed 24 hours. Passengers must ensure that their connecting flight is scheduled within this time frame to comply with the transit requirements.
It is important to note that the NZeTA is specifically for transit purposes and does not grant permission to enter New Zealand as a final destination. Passengers transiting through New Zealand should have the necessary visas or travel authorizations for their final destination.
Requirements for Arriving in New Zealand by Cruise Ship
Passengers arriving in New Zealand by cruise ship have specific requirements to fulfill to travel without a visa. The following guidelines apply to cruise ship travelers:
- New Zealand eTA application: Cruise ship passengers must apply for an NZeTA (Electronic Travel Authority) before their arrival in New Zealand. This visa waiver will be verified during the check-in process for the cruise. It is essential to complete the New Zealand eTA application to ensure a smooth entry process.
- Air Travel Permission for Joining a Cruise: Passengers who are flying into New Zealand to join a cruise must possess the relevant permission to arrive by air. Citizens of visa waiver countries can obtain the necessary permission by applying for an NZeTA. However, passengers of other nationalities are required to have a visa to enter New Zealand by air.
It is important for cruise ship travelers to carefully follow these requirements. Applying for an NZeTA or obtaining the appropriate visa ensures compliance with New Zealand's immigration regulations, facilitating a seamless journey and entry into the country.
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New Zealand eTA or NZeTA has been made a necessary entry document needed by foreign citizens on arrival to New Zealand from 2019. If visiting New Zealand is among your travel plans or a trip to the country for any other specific purpose, then your wait to get an authorisation to visit New Zealand could be simply a few minutes.
Learn more at New Zealand Business Visa.
Eligible Countries for New Zealand eTA (Tourist Visa Waiver)
The New Zealand eTA (Electronic Travel Authority) is available for citizens of various countries, granting them the privilege to apply for a visa waiver for tourism and transit purposes. The eligible countries are divided into two categories:
European Union Citizens:
Citizens of all European Union member countries are eligible to apply for the NZeTA. The countries included are:
Austria
Belgium
Bulgaria
Croatia
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Ireland
Italy
Latvia
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malta
Netherlands
Poland
Portugal
Romania
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden
Other Eligible Countries:
In addition to the European Union citizens, citizens of the following countries can also apply for the NZeTA:
Andorra
Argentina
Bahrain
Brazil
Brunei
Canada
Chile
Hong Kong
Iceland
Israel
Japan
Kuwait
Liechtenstein
Macau
Malaysia
Mauritius
Mexico
Monaco
Norway
Oman
Qatar
San Marino
Saudi Arabia
Seychelles
Singapore
Republic of South Korea
Switzerland
Taiwan
United Arab Emirates
United Kingdom
United States
Uruguay
Vatican City
Citizens of these countries can take advantage of the NZeTA program to visit New Zealand for tourism or transit purposes without the need for a separate visa.
Transit Visa Waiver Countries for New Zealand
Passport holders from certain countries who have a layover at Auckland International Airport while en route to a third-country destination are required to apply for a transit NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority). The transit NZeTA is specifically for transit purposes and does not grant permission for tourism.
The following countries are part of the transit visa waiver program for New Zealand:
Afghanistan
Albania
Algeria
Angola
Antigua and Barbuda
Armenia
Azerbaijan
Bahamas
Bangladesh
Barbados
Belarus
Belize
Benin
Bhutan
Bolivia
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Botswana
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Cambodia
Cameroon
Cape Verde
Central African Republic
Chad
China
Colombia
Comoros
Congo
Costa Rica
Cote D'Ivoire
Cuba
Djibouti
Dominica
Dominican Republic
Ecuador
Egypt
El Salvador
Equatorial Guinea
Eritrea
Ethiopia
Fiji
Gabon
Gambia
Georgia
Ghana
Grenada
Guatemala
Guinea
Guinea-Bissau
Guyana
Haiti
Honduras
India
Indonesia
Iran, Islamic Republic of
Iraq
Jamaica
Jordan
Kazakhstan
Kenya
Kiribati
Korea, Democratic People's Republic of
Kyrgyzstan
Lao People's Democratic Republic
Liberia
Libya
Macedonia
Madagascar
Malawi
Maldives
Mali
Marshall Islands
Mauritania
Micronesia, Federated States of
Moldova, Republic of
Mongolia
Montenegro
Morocco
Mozambique
Myanmar
Namibia
Nauru
Nepal
Nicaragua
Niger
Nigeria
Pakistan
Palau
Palestinian Territory
Panama
Papua New Guinea
Paraguay
Peru
Philippines
Russian Federation
Rwanda
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Lucia
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Samoa
Sao Tome and Principe
Senegal
Serbia
Sierra Leone
Solomon Islands
Somalia
South Africa
South Sudan
Sri Lanka
Sudan
Suriname
Swaziland
Syrian Arab Republic
Tajikistan
Tanzania, United Republic of
Thailand
Timor-Leste
Togo
Tonga
Trinidad and Tobago
Tunisia
Turkey
Tuvalu
Ukraine
Uzbekistan
Vanuatu
Venezuela
Vietnam
Yemen
Zambia
Zimbabwe
Passport holders from these countries must apply for a transit NZeTA if they have a layover at Auckland International Airport while traveling to a third country. This requirement ensures compliance with New Zealand's immigration regulations and facilitates a smooth transit experience.
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Find All the Details About the New Zealand Visa Registration Process and Form Instructions. Completing a New Zealand Visa application is quick and easy. Filling out the online form takes minutes, and you don't have to go to an embassy or consulate.
Learn more at New Zealand Visa Application Form.
Specific NZeTA Requirements for Citizens of Certain Countries
When applying for an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority), citizens of certain countries must adhere to country-specific requirements. These requirements are as follows:
- Estonia: Application is limited to Estonian citizens only.
- Hong Kong: Only holders of HKSAR (Hong Kong Special Administrative Region) or British National (Overseas) passports are eligible to apply for the NZeTA.
- Latvia: Application is restricted to Latvian citizens only.
- Lithuania: Only Lithuanian citizens are eligible to apply for the NZeTA.
- Macau: Application is limited to Macau Special Administrative Region passport holders only.
- Portugal: Applicants must possess the right to permanently reside in Portugal.
- Taiwan: Only individuals with the right to permanently reside in Taiwan are eligible to apply for the NZeTA.
- United Kingdom: Applicants must have the right to permanently reside in the United Kingdom.
- United States: This includes both US citizens and US nationals.
- Australian Permanent Residents with Third-Country Passports: Australian permanent residents who hold passports from a third country are required to obtain an NZeTA for travel to New Zealand. However, they are exempt from paying the tourism levy.
It is important to note that citizens of Australia are not required to apply for an NZeTA visa waiver.
Entry Requirements for New Zealand
To enter New Zealand, foreign citizens must fulfill two essential requirements:
- Valid Passport: Travelers must possess a valid passport. The passport should have a validity of at least three months beyond the intended departure date from New Zealand. It is crucial to ensure that the passport remains valid throughout the duration of the stay.
- NZeTA or New Zealand Visa: Foreign citizens must hold either an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) or an appropriate New Zealand visa. The NZeTA is an electronic travel authorization available for citizens of visa-waiver countries. Those who require a visa must obtain the appropriate visa before traveling to New Zealand.
In addition, NZeTA holders may be asked to present proof of onward travel, such as a flight ticket out of New Zealand, indicating their departure at the end of their stay. They may also be required to provide evidence of sufficient funds to support themselves financially during their visit.
It is important to note that possessing a valid visa or visa waiver does not guarantee entry into New Zealand. The final decision regarding entry lies with the immigration officials, who have the authority to grant or deny entry based on their assessment of each individual's circumstances.
Declaration Requirements for Arrival in New Zealand
To protect New Zealand's unique environment and prevent the introduction of harmful pests and diseases, it is necessary to declare certain items upon arrival in the country. These items are listed on the Passenger Arrival Card and must be declared to the appropriate authorities.
The following risk goods are required to be declared on the Passenger Arrival Card:
- Food: Any food items, including fresh produce, packaged foods, and snacks, must be declared. This includes both commercially prepared food and homemade items.
- Animal Products: This category includes animal-derived products such as meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, eggs, and honey. It is important to declare any animal products, regardless of their form (raw, cooked, or processed).
- Plants and Plant Products: Plants, seeds, bulbs, flowers, fruits, vegetables, and any other plant material should be declared. This also applies to wooden items, including handicrafts or souvenirs made from wood.
- Outdoor Activity Items: Certain outdoor activity items like camping tents, hiking gear, sporting equipment, and bicycles should be declared to ensure they are free from soil, seeds, or any other potential contaminants.
- Water Activity Products: Fishing gear, diving equipment, and other items associated with water activities must be declared to prevent the introduction of aquatic pests and diseases.
It is important to consult the Passenger Arrival Card for a comprehensive list of items that must be declared upon arrival in New Zealand.
Quarantine Procedures and Disposal of Risk Items
Upon arrival in New Zealand, certain risk items may undergo quarantine procedures to assess if they pose any potential threats to the country's biosecurity. Quarantine officers at the border have the authority to determine whether these items can be permitted entry, with or without treatment, or if they need to be confiscated or destroyed.
Cash Declaration Requirements for Entry into New Zealand
When entering New Zealand, there are specific requirements for declaring cash brought into the country. While there is no limit on the amount of cash that can be brought in, passengers carrying NZ$10,000 or more (or the equivalent value in foreign currency) are required to declare it upon arrival.
Exemptions from NZeTA Requirement for Travelers
Certain categories of individuals are exempt from the requirement of obtaining an eTA or visa to enter New Zealand. The following groups are not required to apply for an eTA:
Non-cruise vessel arrivals: Travelers arriving in New Zealand on a non-cruise vessel, such as a private boat or yacht, are exempt from the eTA requirement.
- Crew members on cargo-carrying foreign ships: Crew members who are part of the staff on a foreign ship engaged in cargo transportation are exempt from the eTA requirement.
- New Zealand Government official guests: Visitors who are invited as official guests by the New Zealand Government are exempt from the eTA requirement.
- Visitors arriving under The Antarctic Treaty: Individuals arriving in New Zealand under The Antarctic Treaty, which governs activities in the Antarctic region, are exempt from the eTA requirement.
- Members and crew of a visiting force: Members and crew members of a visiting military force or defense organization are exempt from the eTA requirement.
Requirements for Obtaining a Regular New Zealand Visitor Visa
To obtain a regular New Zealand visitor visa, foreign citizens who do not qualify for an NZeTA need to fulfill specific requirements and provide supporting documents. The following are the key requirements:
- Good Health: Applicants must provide evidence of good health. This typically involves submitting a medical certificate or undergoing a medical examination, depending on the country of residence and the duration of the intended stay.
- Good Character: Applicants must demonstrate good character by providing a police clearance certificate or similar documentation from their home country, indicating that they have no criminal record or any other character issues that could pose a risk to New Zealand.
- Onward Travel: Applicants need to provide proof of onward travel, such as a return ticket or itinerary, demonstrating their intention to leave New Zealand at the end of their authorized stay.
- Financial Means: Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves during their visit to New Zealand. This may include providing bank statements, proof of employment or income, or other relevant financial documents.
It is important to note that the regular New Zealand visa process is longer and more complex compared to the online NZeTA system. Therefore, individuals requiring a visa should start the application process well in advance of their intended date of departure to allow sufficient time for processing.
Ensure that you have checked the eligibility for your Online New Zealand Visa. If you are from a Visa Waiver country then you can apply for an Online New Zealand Visa or New Zealand eTA regardless of the mode of travel (Air / Cruise). United States citizens, European citizens, Canadian citizens, United Kingdom citizens, French citizens, Spanish citizens and Italian citizens can apply online for New Zealand eTA. United Kingdom residents can stay on New Zealand eTA for 6 months while others for 90 days.
Please apply for an Online New Zealand Visa 72 hours in advance of your flight.