What is New Zealand Visa Application

Updated on Oct 01, 2023 | Online New Zealand Visa

To begin the New Zealand visa application process, it is recommended to contact the nearest New Zealand embassy or consulate in your country. They will provide you with the necessary information and guidance on how to proceed with your New Zealand Visa Application.

Citizens of Australia are allowed to travel to New Zealand without the need for a visa. They can enjoy visa-exempt travel, which means they are able to enter the nation without a visa or an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA). Australian citizens are not required to pre-register an ETA application or pay any associated tourist levy fees.

For individuals whose nationality is not eligible for visa-free entry into New Zealand or an New Zealand eTA, obtaining a visa is necessary to enter the country. Additionally, citizens of visa waiver countries who plan to stay in New Zealand for a longer period than the permitted duration under the New Zealand eTA must also apply for a visa.

It's important to note that the New Zealand eTA allows multiple entries into New Zealand, with each visit allowed for a maximum duration of 90 days.  The New Zealand eTA is good for numerous visits and is valid for two years.

Foreign passport holders who are Australian permanent residents, regardless of their nationality, are required to apply for the New Zealand eTA. However, they are not charged the associated tourist levy fee.

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.

How to Apply for a Visa for New Zealand (Non-New Zealand eTA)

If you are not eligible for visa-free entry into New Zealand and do not hold an Australian passport or permanent residency, you will need to apply for a traditional visa to enter the country. The kind of visa you need will depend on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and the intended length of stay in New Zealand.

To begin the New Zealand visa application process, it is recommended to contact the nearest New Zealand embassy or consulate in your country. They will provide you with the necessary information and guidance on how to proceed with your New Zealand Visa Application.

The embassy or consulate will walk you through the procedures for your application, which may involve presenting supporting documents including a current passport, proof of your ability to pay, proof of your travel plans, and any other pertinent paperwork particular to your visa category.

It's important to allow ample time for your New Zealand visa application to be processed, as the timeline may vary depending on your circumstances. Be sure to check the official website of the New Zealand immigration authorities or consult with the embassy or consulate for the most accurate and up-to-date information on visa requirements, application procedures, and processing times.

Obtaining a visa can be a difficult procedure, therefore it's important to advisable to seek assistance from the relevant authorities to ensure that your application is complete and meets all the necessary criteria. They will be able to provide you with the appropriate guidance and support throughout the visa application process.

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


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.