New Zealand eTA for Cruise Ship

Updated on Jun 18, 2023 | Online New Zealand Visa

Passengers from all nationalities traveling on a cruise ship can apply for an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) instead of a traditional visa when they arrive in New Zealand.

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.

Arriving by Cruise Ship with the eTA New Zealand

Passengers from all nationalities traveling on a cruise ship can apply for an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) instead of a traditional visa when they arrive in New Zealand.

However, it's important to note that different rules and regulations apply to visitors who fly into New Zealand to join a cruise. Please refer to the information below for further details and specific information regarding this scenario.

Visiting New Zealand on a Cruise: Visa Requirements and NZeTA

If you are planning to visit New Zealand on a cruise ship, you do not need a traditional visa. Instead, foreign citizens are required to obtain an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority). This streamlined process allows cruise passengers to visit New Zealand without the need for a visa.

Applying for an New Zealand eTA is a simple and convenient online process, making it easier for cruise passengers to obtain travel authorization for New Zealand. When checking in for the cruise, travelers will need to present their New Zealand eTA confirmation letter, either in printed or digital format.

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From October 2019 New Zealand Visa requirements have changed. People who do not require a New Zealand Visa i.e. formerly Visa Free nationals, are required to obtain New Zealand Electronic Travel Authorization (NZeTA) in order to enter New Zealand. Learn more at Online New Zealand Visa Eligible Countries.

Exception for Australian Citizens

Australian citizens enjoy a special exemption and can arrive on a cruise ship in New Zealand without needing a visa or NZeTA. However, Australian permanent residents are required to obtain an eTA (Electronic Travel Authority) before their cruise to New Zealand.

Requirements for NZeTA for Cruise Ship Passengers

To travel to New Zealand on a cruise ship without a visa, cruise passengers must fulfill certain NZeTA requirements. These requirements include:

  • Valid Passport: Passengers must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the intended departure date from New Zealand. It is important to ensure that your passport meets this validity criterion.
  • Credit or Debit Card: A valid credit or debit card is necessary to pay the NZeTA fee and the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL). These fees are required as part of the application process for the NZeTA.
  • Email Address: Applicants need to provide a functioning email address during the NZeTA application process. This email address will be used to send the NZeTA confirmation and any relevant updates.

In addition to meeting the NZeTA requirements, cruise passengers are also required to comply with New Zealand's health and safety regulations. These regulations ensure the well-being of passengers and help maintain a safe and secure environment onboard the cruise ship.

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Frequently Asked Questions about the New Zealand eTA Visa. Get answers to the most common questions about the requirements, important information and documents required to travel to the New Zealand. Learn more at New Zealand eTA (NZeTA) Frequently Asked Questions.

Passport Requirements for Traveling to New Zealand by Cruise Ship

When traveling to New Zealand on a cruise ship, it is essential to meet specific passport requirements. These requirements are as follows:

  • Consistency of Passport: The passport used for the New Zealand eTA application must also be presented when traveling aboard the cruise ship to New Zealand. The NZeTA is linked to a particular passport and cannot be transferred to another. Therefore, ensuring that the passport used for the NZeTA application matches the one carried during the journey is crucial.
  • Passport Expiry: It is important to note that the New Zealand eTA is valid only until the expiration date of the passport used for the application. When the passport expires, a new NZeTA must be obtained for the new passport.
  • Dual Nationality: If an applicant holds dual nationality, using the same passport for the New Zealand eTA application and boarding the cruise ship is necessary. It is not permissible to switch passports during the process. Consistency in the passport used ensures compliance with the NZeTA requirements.

How to Apply for NZeTA New Zealand for a Cruise

To apply for the NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) for a cruise ship journey, visitors can easily complete the application process online using their smartphone, laptop, or any electronic device. The entire process is conducted digitally, ensuring convenience for applicants. Here's how to apply:

  • Online Application: Access the official NZeTA application platform and complete the required information. The application can be submitted from anywhere with an internet connection, allowing applicants to apply at their convenience.
  • Application Duration: The NZeTA application for a cruise ship typically takes just a few minutes to complete. The process is designed to be swift and efficient.
  • Required Information: Provide the following essential details in the application:
  1. First Name
  2. Surname
  3. Date of Birth
  4. Passport Number
  5. Passport Issue/Expiry Date

Additionally, cruise passengers need to indicate the reason for their visit and declare any previous criminal convictions, if applicable.

  • Accuracy of Information: It is crucial for applicants to ensure that all the information provided in the NZeTA application is accurate and matches the details in their passport. Any errors or discrepancies could lead to processing delays and, in cases where the cruise departure is imminent, disrupt travel plans.

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Are you looking for Online New Zealand visa from United Kingdom? Find out the requirements of the New Zealand eTA for United Kingdom citizens and the eTA NZ visa application from United Kingdom. Learn more at Online New Zealand Visa for United Kingdom Citizens.

Applying for NZeTA for a Cruise Ship: A 3-Step Guide

Obtaining an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) for a cruise ship journey is a straightforward process that can be completed in just three steps. Here is a simple guide to help you through the application:

Step 1: Complete the Application Form

Fill out the NZeTA application form with accurate personal, contact, and travel information. Provide details such as your name, date of birth, passport number, and passport issue/expiry dates. This information helps verify your identity and travel eligibility.

Step 2: Review the Data

Carefully review all the data you have entered in the application form to ensure its accuracy. Check for any errors or omissions before proceeding to the next step. It is crucial to double-check this information to avoid delays or complications in processing your NZeTA.

Step 3: Make the Payment

Pay the NZeTA application fees and the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) using a debit or credit card. The IVL may not be required for every NZeTA application, but when applicable, it will be automatically included in the application fee during this step. Payment completion confirms your submission and enables the processing of your NZeTA application.

Upon Approval:

After successful processing, you will receive the NZeTA approval via email. It is important to keep this confirmation email as you will need to present it when checking in for the cruise. The confirmation serves as proof of your approved travel authority and ensures a smooth embarkation process.

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Get Online New Zealand visa for US citizens, with new-zealand-visa.org. To find out the requirements of the New Zealand eTA for Americans (USA Citizens) and the eTA NZ visa application learn more at Online New Zealand Visa for US Citizens.

Traveling to New Zealand to Join a Cruise: Air Travel Considerations

When travelers plan to fly into New Zealand to join a cruise, it is important to know the specific rules and requirements in this scenario. Here's what you need to know:

Visa Requirements for Non-Visa Waiver Countries:

Passengers arriving by airplane from non-visa waiver countries are required to apply for a visitor visa before their departure. This means that if you are not from a country eligible for visa-free travel to New Zealand, you will need to obtain a visitor visa in advance.

NZeTA Applicability for Air Travel:

It is important to note that the NZeTA can only be used for arrival by cruise ship and not by airplane, unless the passport holder is from a visa waiver country. If you are flying into New Zealand to join a cruise and are not eligible for visa-free travel, the NZeTA cannot be used for air travel.

Visa and Entry Permission for Leaving the Cruise Ship:

Passengers who intend to leave the cruise ship to either fly back home or extend their stay in New Zealand must also obtain the appropriate visa and entry permission, if they are not from a visa-exempt country. This means that even if you initially arrived on a cruise using an NZeTA or a visa waiver, you may need a different visa if you wish to disembark and engage in other activities in New Zealand.

Applying for a New Zealand Visa for a Cruise: Timelines and NZeTA Considerations

When planning to go on a cruise to New Zealand and requiring a visa to enter the country by plane, it is important to consider the application timeline. The timing may vary based on individual circumstances. Here's a general guideline:

  • Visa Application for Non-Visa Waiver Countries:

If you are from a non-visa waiver country and need a visa to enter New Zealand by plane, it is advisable to apply several months in advance of your planned travel date. Processing times can vary depending on factors such as demand and the location where the application is submitted. Applying well in advance ensures sufficient time for processing and allows for any unforeseen delays.

  • NZeTA for Visa Waiver Countries:

Citizens of visa waiver countries can fly into New Zealand and join the cruise using the NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority). For NZeTA applications, processing times are generally faster, typically taking 1 to 3 business days. This allows for a more streamlined and quicker process for travelers from visa waiver nations.

It is important to note that these timelines are provided as general recommendations. It is advisable to consult the official New Zealand immigration website or contact the nearest New Zealand embassy or consulate for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding visa application timelines.

Eligibility for NZeTA for Cruise Passengers

To visit New Zealand on a cruise without a visa, passengers can apply for an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority). The eligibility for NZeTA and visa requirements are as follows:

  • NZeTA Eligibility for Tourists Joining a Cruise by Air:

Visitors from eligible visa waiver countries can travel to New Zealand to join a cruise using an NZeTA. The list of eligible visa waiver countries is available on the official New Zealand immigration website.

  • NZeTA for Australian Permanent Residents:

Foreign nationals with permanent residency in Australia can also apply for an NZeTA, irrespective of their nationality. However, they are exempt from paying the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL).

  • Non-Eligible Countries:

Citizens holding passports from countries not included in the list of eligible visa waiver countries will need to apply for a traditional New Zealand tourist visa at a New Zealand embassy or consulate before flying to New Zealand.

  • Cruise Line Crew:

Cruise line crew members should ensure that their employer has requested the appropriate Crew NZeTA on their behalf before their departure. This allows for smoother processing and compliance with entry requirements.


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.