2Years
Traveller NZeTA Validity
A traveller NZeTA is generally valid for two years from the date of issue. You can travel to New Zealand more than once while it remains valid, provided you continue to meet the applicable entry requirements.
New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA)
Planning a visit to New Zealand? Explore the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA), check travel requirements, and prepare for your journey with helpful information and guidance.
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NEW ZEALAND TRAVEL INFORMATION
Prepare for Your New Zealand NZeTA
- Eligibility Information
- Travel Requirements
- Application Preparation
Learn about NZeTA eligibility, passport and photograph requirements, visitor stays, transit arrangements, and the information travellers should prepare before applying.
Explore practical NZeTA information, including eligibility, travel requirements and preparation guidance for your journey to New Zealand.
New Zealand NZeTA Requirements & Travel Information
Essential information for travellers planning a visit to New Zealand.
What Is an NZeTA?
The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) is an electronic travel authorisation for eligible travellers visiting or transiting through New Zealand. It is linked to your passport and is required for certain travellers before departure.
Who Needs an NZeTA?
NZeTA requirements depend on your passport, travel purpose, and circumstances. Eligible travellers may include visitors from visa-waiver countries and certain transit passengers. Check your eligibility before applying.
Before You Apply
Prepare your valid passport, personal details, and travel information before starting your New Zealand NZeTA application. Ensure all information is accurate and matches your travel documents.
Countries Eligible for a New Zealand NZeTA
Travellers holding eligible passports from New Zealand’s visa-waiver countries and territories can generally request an NZeTA for short visits. Explore the countries and territories by region and check the conditions that apply to your passport.
Europe
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- EstoniaCitizens only
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- GreeceOnly for Greek passports issued on and after 1 January 2006
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- LatviaCitizens only
- Liechtenstein
- LithuaniaCitizens only
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- PortugalPassport holders who have the right to live permanently in Portugal
- Romania
- San Marino
- Slovak Republic
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- United KingdomCitizens and other British passport holders who have the right to reside permanently in the UK
- Vatican City
Asia
- Bahrain
- Brunei
- Hong KongResidents travelling on HKSAR or British National (Overseas) passports only
- Israel
- Japan
- South Korea
- Kuwait
- MacauResidents travelling on Macau Special Administrative Region passports
- Malaysia
- Oman
- Qatar
- Saudi Arabia
- Singapore
- TaiwanPermanent residents travelling on Taiwan passports
- United Arab Emirates
North America
- Canada
- Mexico
- United States of AmericaIncluding USA nationals
South America
- Argentina
- Brazil
- Chile
- Uruguay
Oceania
No countries or territories in Oceania are currently on the visitor visa-waiver list. Australian passport holders have a separate exemption and do not need an NZeTA.
Africa
- Mauritius
- Seychelles
Eligibility depends on the passport you travel with. Where a country or territory carries an additional passport or residency condition, it is shown beneath the name.
Australian citizens travelling on an Australian passport do not need an NZeTA.
Transit Through New Zealand with an NZeTA
Travellers from certain countries and territories may be eligible to transit through Auckland International Airport using an NZeTA instead of applying for a Transit Visa. Eligibility depends on your passport and travel arrangements.
Asia
4 listed
- China
- Indonesia
- Philippines
- Thailand
North America
4 listed
- Bahamas
- Bermuda
- Costa Rica
- Panama
South America
6 listed
- Bolivia
- Colombia
- Ecuador
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Venezuela
Oceania
12 listed
- Federated States of Micronesia
- Fiji
- Kiribati
- Nauru
- Palau
- Papua New Guinea
- Republic of the Marshall Islands
- Samoa
- Solomon Islands
- Tonga
- Tuvalu
- Vanuatu
Who can use an NZeTA to transit
Passport holders from the countries and territories listed here can request an NZeTA to transit instead of applying for a Transit Visa. These are in addition to the visitor visa-waiver countries and territories, whose passport holders may also qualify to transit with an NZeTA.
Being on the transit list does not give permission to enter New Zealand as a visitor.
ImportantTransit arrangements generally apply to passengers remaining in the international transit area at Auckland International Airport. Qualifying airside transit through Auckland International Airport is limited to a stay of no more than 24 hours, and passengers must remain in the permitted transit area throughout their connection. Travellers entering New Zealand or using other New Zealand airports may need different travel permission.
SPECIAL TRAVEL ARRANGEMENT
NZeTA Eligibility for Chinese Travellers Arriving from Australia
Eligible Chinese passport holders travelling directly from Australia may be able to visit New Zealand with an NZeTA under a special travel arrangement. Specific Australian visa and travel conditions must be met.
Australia
New Zealand
Core requirements
Valid Chinese passport
Hold a valid Chinese passport.
Travelling from Australia
Travelling from a country other than Australia does not qualify under this particular arrangement.
Valid NZeTA
Have a valid NZeTA before travelling.
Qualifying Australian pathways
Travellers qualify through an eligible Australian visa or as an Australian permanent resident.
Eligible Australian visa
- Hold an eligible Australian visa.
- Travel directly from Australia to New Zealand.
- You must have entered Australia rather than merely transiting through an Australian airport.
- Your Australian visa must be eligible and valid at the required travel check.
Australian permanent residence
- Be an Australian permanent resident who meets the current conditions.
Permanent residents and temporary visa holders follow partly different conditions. Check the current requirements before applying.
Other NZeTA pathways
Other NZeTA pathways, such as eligible transit or cruise travel, are subject to separate conditions.
CRUISE TRAVEL TO NEW ZEALAND
New Zealand NZeTA for Cruise Ship Passengers
Travelling to New Zealand by cruise ship? Learn about NZeTA requirements, who may need a travel authorisation, and what to prepare before your voyage.
Arriving by Sea
Cruise passengers may be able to use an NZeTA even when their passport normally requires a visa for air travel. Eligibility depends on their circumstances and how they enter New Zealand.
Prepare Before Departure
Check your passport and travel details before requesting an NZeTA. If an NZeTA is required, it must be obtained before your ship departs for New Zealand.
Flying to Join a Cruise
Travellers flying into New Zealand to board a cruise ship may need a visa rather than relying on cruise-passenger NZeTA arrangements. Check the requirements for your passport before travelling.
Visiting New Zealand Ports
Cruise ship passengers must meet the applicable immigration conditions when visiting New Zealand ports. An NZeTA is a travel authorisation, not a guarantee of entry.
NZeTA TRAVEL INFORMATION
New Zealand NZeTA Validity, Length of Stay & Reapplication
Understand how long your NZeTA remains valid, the difference between travel authorisation and permitted stay, and when your details may need updating.
How Long Can You Stay?
Eligible visitors can generally stay in New Zealand for up to three months per visit, or up to six months when travelling on a United Kingdom passport. Under the applicable visa-waiver visitor conditions, travellers must also observe the limit of no more than six months in New Zealand during any 12-month period. Your permitted stay depends on the visa and entry permission granted to you.
Up to 3 months
per visit
Up to 6 months
United Kingdom passport
The validity of your NZeTA is different from the length of time you are allowed to remain in New Zealand.
When Should You Update or Request a New NZeTA?
Your NZeTA Has Expired
If your NZeTA has expired and you still need one for your journey, you must request a new NZeTA before travelling to New Zealand.
You Have a New Passport
Your NZeTA details must match the passport you use for travel. If your passport has been renewed or replaced, you may be able to update the passport details on your existing NZeTA rather than submit a new application.
Your Personal or Travel Details Have Changed
Some minor errors and passport or contact details can be updated on an existing NZeTA. Significant changes, including a change of nationality or NZeTA type, require a new request.
BEFORE YOU TRAVEL
New Zealand Entry Requirements & NZeTA Travel Rules
Explore essential passport, eligibility, application and arrival requirements before travelling to New Zealand. Understanding these conditions can help you prepare for your journey and avoid problems at check-in or the border.
Who Needs a New Zealand NZeTA?
The travel permission you need depends on your passport, nationality, purpose of travel and method of arrival. Some travellers must obtain an NZeTA before departure, while others need a visa or qualify for an exemption.
VISITORS FROM VISA-WAIVER COUNTRIES
Eligible passport holders generally need an NZeTA before flying to New Zealand for a short visit, unless an exemption applies.
CRUISE AND TRANSIT PASSENGERS
Cruise passengers and certain travellers transiting through Auckland International Airport may qualify for an NZeTA under separate immigration conditions.
AUSTRALIAN CITIZENS AND OTHER EXEMPTIONS
Australian citizens travelling on Australian passports do not need an NZeTA. Travellers holding qualifying New Zealand visas or other exemptions may also be exempt.
Passport and Identity Requirements
Your passport must be valid for travel to New Zealand, and the personal details in your NZeTA must match the passport you present when travelling.
If your passport has been replaced, check whether your existing NZeTA details can be updated before requesting a new one.
PASSPORT VALIDITY
Most visitors should have a passport valid for at least three months beyond the date they intend to leave New Zealand. Different conditions apply to certain citizens and residents.
MATCHING PASSPORT DETAILS
Check that your passport number, nationality, name and other identity information are correctly recorded in your NZeTA request.
PASSPORT CONDITION
Your travel document must be valid and must not have been reported lost or stolen, invalidated or damaged in a way that makes it unacceptable for travel.
Preparing Your NZeTA Application
Before requesting a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority, prepare your passport and the personal information needed to complete the request accurately.
- 1
STAGE 1
Prepare Your Passport
Have the passport you intend to use when travelling to New Zealand.
- 2
STAGE 2
Provide Personal Details
Enter your personal information and passport details accurately.
- 3
STAGE 3
Provide an Acceptable Photograph
A suitable identity photograph is required when requesting an NZeTA.
- 4
STAGE 4
Review and Submit
Review the information before submitting your request. Approval is not automatic, and additional checks may be required.
Financial Support and Onward Travel
Travellers may need to demonstrate that they can support themselves during their stay and have suitable arrangements to leave New Zealand when required.
Immigration officers may request supporting evidence at check-in or arrival. Having an NZeTA does not guarantee permission to enter New Zealand.
SUFFICIENT FUNDS
Visitors may be asked to provide evidence of funds for their stay. The amount required depends on the applicable immigration conditions and accommodation arrangements.
ONWARD OR RETURN TRAVEL
Travellers may need a confirmed ticket or other accepted evidence showing that they can leave New Zealand at the end of their permitted stay.
SUPPORTING TRAVEL DETAILS
Keep relevant travel arrangements available, such as accommodation details, itinerary information or other evidence supporting your visit.
Health and Character Requirements
Travellers must meet New Zealand's applicable health, character and genuine-visitor requirements. Immigration authorities may consider relevant personal circumstances when determining eligibility and entry permission.
HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
Travellers must meet applicable health requirements. Additional information may be requested depending on their circumstances.
CHARACTER REQUIREMENTS
Relevant criminal convictions, deportation history or security concerns may affect eligibility or entry permission.
ACCURATE DECLARATIONS
Information provided in an NZeTA request and at the New Zealand border must be accurate and truthful.
Arriving in New Zealand
Holding an NZeTA allows eligible travellers to seek travel to New Zealand, but entry permission is considered when they arrive. Travellers must also meet the applicable customs, immigration and biosecurity requirements.
Keep your passport and relevant travel documents available during your journey.
ENTRY PERMISSION
An NZeTA is not a visa and does not guarantee entry. Eligible travellers may be granted a visa and entry permission when arriving in New Zealand.
NEW ZEALAND TRAVELLER DECLARATION
Travellers must complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD), which collects information relevant to immigration, customs and biosecurity requirements.
BORDER AND BIOSECURITY CHECKS
Travellers must follow New Zealand border procedures and declare goods or items when required.
YOUR NZeTA PREPARATION GUIDE
Preparing for Your New Zealand NZeTA
Preparing an NZeTA request begins with understanding your eligibility and having the right travel information available. Follow these key steps to understand NZeTA requirements and prepare the information needed for your travel authorisation request.
STAGE 01
Check Your Eligibility
Confirm that an NZeTA is suitable for your passport, travel purpose and intended journey. Some travellers need a visa or qualify under a different travel arrangement.
STAGE 02
Prepare Your Travel Documents
Have your valid passport, personal details and an acceptable identity photograph ready before beginning your NZeTA request.
STAGE 03
Prepare Your NZeTA Details
Gather your passport details, travel information and any required supporting documents. Check that the information is accurate and consistent.
STAGE 04
Review Your Information
Review your passport details, travel information and supporting documents for accuracy before submitting an application through an available application channel.
STAGE 05
Check Your NZeTA Outcome
Check the outcome of your request before departure. If your NZeTA is issued, confirm that the details match your passport and that you continue to meet the travel requirements.
NZeTA TRAVELLER ELIGIBILITY
Who Needs a New Zealand NZeTA?
Whether you need an NZeTA depends on your passport, immigration status, travel purpose and how you arrive in New Zealand. Review the main traveller categories below.
Travellers Who Generally Need an NZeTA
An NZeTA is generally required for eligible travellers in certain visitor, cruise and transit categories, unless an exemption applies.
- Eligible visa-waiver passport holders travelling to New Zealand by air for a short visit.
- Cruise ship passengers arriving by sea, unless they hold qualifying immigration permission or meet an exemption.
- Eligible transit passengers passing through Auckland International Airport.
- Australian permanent residents travelling to New Zealand who are required to hold an NZeTA under the applicable rules.
Travellers Who Generally Do Not Need an NZeTA
Certain travellers may enter or travel to New Zealand without requesting an NZeTA, provided they hold the appropriate documents.
- New Zealand citizens travelling with a New Zealand passport or qualifying citizenship documentation.
- Australian citizens travelling with a valid Australian passport.
- Travellers holding a valid New Zealand visa that permits their intended travel, unless a separate requirement applies.
- Other travellers specifically exempted under New Zealand immigration rules.
Travellers Who Should Check Additional Conditions
Some visitors must satisfy additional requirements or may need a visa rather than an NZeTA.
- Chinese passport holders using the special Australia–New Zealand travel arrangement.
- Travellers flying into New Zealand to join a cruise ship.
- Passport holders from countries that are not covered by an applicable NZeTA pathway.
- Travellers whose passport, immigration status or intended activities require additional consideration.
An NZeTA is not a visa and does not guarantee entry to New Zealand. Travellers must meet the relevant immigration and border requirements.
DISCOVER NEW ZEALAND
Explore New Zealand’s Most Popular Destinations
Discover breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and unforgettable experiences across New Zealand. From Auckland and Queenstown to Rotorua and Milford Sound, explore some of the country’s most remarkable places to visit.
Auckland
Discover New Zealand's largest city, known for its beautiful harbours, waterfront attractions, and the iconic Sky Tower.
Queenstown
Explore spectacular alpine scenery, Lake Wakatipu, and a destination famous for outdoor adventures.
Christchurch
Experience beautiful gardens, riverside attractions, and the welcoming gateway to New Zealand's South Island.
Rotorua
Discover geothermal landscapes, natural attractions, and experiences celebrating Māori culture.
Wellington
Visit New Zealand's capital city, known for its scenic harbour, cultural attractions, and lively waterfront.
Milford Sound
Admire dramatic mountains, waterfalls, and extraordinary fjord scenery in Fiordland National Park.
Photography: Pseudopanax, Bernard Spragg, lumoplank, Szilas via Wikimedia Commons (public domain / CC0).
New Zealand NZeTA — Frequently Asked Questions
Find clear answers to common questions about New Zealand NZeTA eligibility, passport requirements, travel validity, cruise arrivals, and transit travel.
What is a New Zealand NZeTA?
An NZeTA is an electronic travel authority for eligible travellers visiting or transiting through New Zealand. It is linked to your passport and is not itself a visa.
Who needs an NZeTA to visit New Zealand?
Requirements depend on your passport and how you travel. Certain visa-waiver visitors, cruise passengers and transit travellers need an NZeTA unless an exemption applies.
How long is an NZeTA valid?
A traveller NZeTA is generally valid for two years and can be used for multiple journeys while it remains valid, subject to applicable immigration conditions.
How long can I stay in New Zealand with an NZeTA?
Eligible visitors are generally granted permission for up to three months per visit, or up to six months for qualifying United Kingdom passport holders. The permitted stay is determined separately from NZeTA validity.
Can I travel to New Zealand with a new passport?
Your NZeTA details must match your travelling passport. If your passport has been replaced, you may be able to update the details on your existing NZeTA.
Do children need their own NZeTA?
Children who require an NZeTA must have their own travel authorisation, even when travelling with their parents or guardians.
Can I use an NZeTA for multiple visits?
Yes. A valid traveller NZeTA can generally be used for repeated journeys, provided you continue to meet the relevant visa and entry conditions.
Do cruise ship passengers need an NZeTA?
Cruise passengers arriving by sea generally need an NZeTA unless they hold appropriate New Zealand immigration permission or meet an exemption.
Can I transit through New Zealand with an NZeTA?
Certain travellers can transit through Auckland International Airport with an NZeTA. Eligibility depends on their passport, travel arrangements and applicable transit rules.
Does an approved NZeTA guarantee entry into New Zealand?
No. Travellers must still meet New Zealand's immigration and border entry requirements. Entry permission is considered separately.
NEW ZEALAND NZeTA APPLICATION
Prepare for Your New Zealand Journey
Explore NZeTA requirements, review your travel information, and find helpful guidance for preparing for your visit to New Zealand.
Online application not yet available.