Entry Requirements at a Glance
To travel to New Zealand with an NZeTA, you generally must:
- Hold a valid passport from an eligible country
- Hold a valid NZeTA before boarding a flight or cruise to New Zealand, where required
- Travel for an approved short-term purpose
- Intend to stay temporarily
- Meet New Zealand entry requirements
You may also be asked to:
- Demonstrate genuine visitor intentions
- Show evidence of onward or return travel
- Demonstrate access to sufficient funds for your stay
All entry decisions are made by New Zealand border authorities based on individual circumstances.
International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)
Most travellers applying for an NZeTA are also required to obtain the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) as part of the travel authorisation process.
The IVL helps support New Zealand's tourism infrastructure and contributes towards protecting natural environments and visitor facilities.
The levy is generally collected as part of the NZeTA process where applicable.
Certain travellers may be exempt from the IVL based on their nationality or travel circumstances.
Key Features
- Usually valid for up to 2 years
- Multiple entries permitted during validity
- Visits are generally permitted for up to 3 months per visit for most eligible travellers, although different stay periods may apply to certain nationalities
- Fully digital application process
- No in-person appointment is normally required
- Linked electronically to your passport
Before You Apply
Before starting your NZeTA application, ensure that:
- Your passport is valid for your planned travel
- All information matches your passport exactly
- You use the same passport for both the application and travel
- You apply before your intended departure date
Taking a few minutes to review your information carefully can help avoid unnecessary delays.
Who May Be Eligible for an NZeTA
You may be eligible for an NZeTA if you:
- Hold a passport from an eligible visa waiver country
- Plan to visit New Zealand for tourism, business, or transit
- Intend to stay temporarily
- Meet New Zealand entry requirements
Important
Eligibility depends on nationality, passport type, and individual circumstances.
When You May Need a Visa Instead
You may need a visa instead of an NZeTA if you:
- Are not from an eligible visa waiver country
- Plan to work in New Zealand
- Intend to remain in New Zealand long-term
- Do not meet entry requirements
- Have circumstances requiring a different visa category
In these situations, a visa application may be necessary before travel.
Permitted Activities
With an approved NZeTA, you may:
- Travel for tourism or holidays
- Visit family or friends
- Attend meetings or business discussions
- Participate in certain short business activities
- Transit through New Zealand, where applicable
Important
The NZeTA does not permit employment in New Zealand.
What an NZeTA Does Not Allow
The NZeTA does not allow you to:
- Work in New Zealand
- Live permanently in New Zealand
- Undertake activities requiring a different visa type
- Bypass border checks or guarantee entry
Studying in New Zealand with an NZeTA
Short-term study may be permitted during a visitor's stay, provided it complies with New Zealand visitor requirements.
A long-term study generally requires an appropriate student visa.
Travelling Through New Zealand (Transit)
Many transit passengers travelling through New Zealand are required to obtain an NZeTA before departure, depending on their nationality and travel arrangements.
Transit requirements vary according to nationality, passport type, and travel arrangements.
Travellers should always verify transit requirements before departure.
Travelling with Children
Every traveller must hold their own NZeTA, including children and infants.
A separate NZeTA application must be submitted for each child using the child's passport details.
Dual Nationality and Multiple Passports
If you hold more than one passport, you should apply using the same passport that you intend to use when travelling.
The NZeTA is electronically linked to a single passport and cannot be transferred to another document.
What Happens at the New Zealand Border
Upon arrival, border officials may ask questions relating to:
- The purpose of your visit
- The length of your stay
- Your accommodation arrangements
- Your onward travel plans
Supporting information may be requested where necessary.
Holding an approved NZeTA does not guarantee entry into New Zealand.
Conditions You Must Follow
While visiting New Zealand, you must:
- Comply with visitor conditions
- Leave before your authorised stay expires
- Avoid unauthorised work
- Follow all New Zealand laws and entry requirements
Failure to comply may affect future travel.
Documents You May Need
Most applications require:
- A valid passport
- Personal information
- Contact details
- Travel information
You may also need to:
- Upload a passport photograph
- Provide additional information if requested
Requirements vary depending on your circumstances.
How the Application Process Works
The NZeTA application is completed online through the official system.
The process generally includes:
- Completing the application form
- Entering passport and personal details
- Uploading required information where applicable
- Answering background questions
- Receiving the NZeTA electronically if approved
All information should match your passport exactly.
After You Apply
Once your application has been submitted:
- Your application is assessed by New Zealand authorities
- Application updates are generally provided electronically
- Your NZeTA is linked to your passport if approved
- Airlines verify your travel authorisation before departure
Border authorities assess entry upon arrival.
Processing Times
Many NZeTA applications are processed quickly.
However, some applications may require additional assessment and can take longer.
Processing times may vary depending on:
- Application accuracy
- Verification requirements
- Application volumes
- Individual circumstances
Travellers are encouraged to apply well before their intended departure date.
Changing Travel Plans
Changes to your travel dates generally do not affect a valid NZeTA.
However, if your passport changes, expires, or is replaced, a new NZeTA will usually be required.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Entering incorrect passport details
- Using an expired passport
- Providing inconsistent information
- Waiting until the last minute to apply
Careful preparation helps reduce avoidable delays.
Common Misconceptions
- An NZeTA is not a visa
- An NZeTA does not guarantee entry
- Not all travellers require an NZeTA
- Each traveller must hold their own NZeTA
Why an NZeTA Application May Not Be Approved
Applications may not be approved because of:
- Incomplete or inaccurate information
- Inconsistencies in the application
- Immigration compliance concerns
- Criminal or security-related issues
Providing accurate information is essential.
Application Decisions
If approved, your NZeTA is electronically linked to your passport.
An approved NZeTA allows you to travel to New Zealand but does not guarantee entry.
Border officials make all final entry decisions.
If your application is not approved, you may need to explore alternative visa options.
Renewing or Reapplying for an NZeTA
You will generally need a new NZeTA if:
- Your current NZeTA expires
- Your passport is renewed or replaced
- Your personal details have changed
Each application is assessed independently.
Why Choose Our Support
- Clear and structured application guidance
- Focus on accuracy and completeness
- Responsive support throughout the process
- Straightforward and organised application experience
Each application is assessed independently.
Who Does Not Need an NZeTA
You generally do not need an NZeTA if you:
- Are a New Zealand citizen
- Hold a valid New Zealand visa
- Are an Australian citizen travelling on an Australian passport
Australian permanent residents generally require an NZeTA before travelling to New Zealand.
You should always confirm your travel requirements before applying.
