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BEFORE YOU APPLY

New Zealand NZeTA Requirements

Preparing your New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) application starts with having the correct travel documents and personal information. Our online application service is designed to make the preparation process straightforward for eligible travellers.

For a standard application through our service, prepare a clear copy of your passport bio page and a recent face photograph.

  • Passport Bio Page
  • Recent Face Photograph

DOCUMENT CHECKLIST

Documents Needed for Your NZeTA Application

To begin your application through our service, you will need two essential items. Make sure both are clear, accurate, and belong to the traveller applying for the NZeTA.

Passport Bio Page

Provide a clear image or scan of the information page of the passport you will use to travel to New Zealand. This is the page showing your photograph, full name, date of birth, passport number, nationality, and passport validity dates.

  • All passport details must be clearly readable.
  • Include the entire information page, including the machine-readable lines at the bottom.
  • Make sure no corners or important details are cut off.
  • Avoid glare, shadows, reflections, or blurry images.
  • Use the same passport you intend to travel with.

You do not need to send your physical passport to begin an application through our service.

Recent Face Photograph

Provide a recent colour photograph that clearly shows your face. The photograph should be taken in good lighting, with a simple background and a natural appearance.

  • Look directly at the camera.
  • Keep your face clearly visible and in focus.
  • Use a plain, neutral background.
  • Keep your eyes open and maintain a neutral expression.
  • Avoid filters, beauty effects, AI alterations, and digitally modified backgrounds.
  • Use a recent photograph that accurately reflects your current appearance.

The photograph must be of the actual applicant. A photograph taken from another document or a screenshot of an existing passport photograph should not be used.

For a standard application through our service, prepare your passport bio page and a recent face photograph. Depending on your circumstances, additional information or supporting evidence may be requested.

PASSPORT PREPARATION

Passport Requirements for New Zealand NZeTA Applicants

Your NZeTA is associated with the passport used for your application. Before submitting your details, check that your passport is valid and that the information is recorded accurately.

  • Passport Validity

    For most visitors, the passport should remain valid for at least three months beyond the intended departure date from New Zealand. Different conditions may apply to certain travellers.

  • Accurate Personal Details

    Your full name, date of birth, nationality, passport number, and other passport details should be entered exactly as shown in your travel document.

  • Clear Passport Image

    Use a sharp, well-lit image of the complete passport bio page. All printed details and the machine-readable zone should be visible and easy to read.

  • Use Your Travelling Passport

    The passport details associated with your NZeTA must match the passport presented for travel. If you replace your passport, check whether the details on your existing NZeTA need updating.

PHOTO PREPARATION

New Zealand NZeTA Face Photograph Requirements

A suitable face photograph helps establish the applicant's identity. Following the basic photograph requirements can reduce avoidable errors and requests for a replacement image.

How to Take an Acceptable Face Photograph

  1. Choose a plain, neutral background without distracting objects.
  2. Face the camera directly, keeping your head straight and your eyes clearly visible.
  3. Use even lighting that shows your facial features without strong shadows or reflections.
  4. Keep a natural appearance and a neutral facial expression.
  5. Use a recent photograph taken within the last six months.
  6. Submit an original, unaltered photograph without filters, beauty enhancements, AI editing, or digital background replacement.

APPLICATION INFORMATION

Information to Check Before You Apply

In addition to your passport bio page and face photograph, you should have your personal and travel information ready to complete the application accurately.

  • Personal Information

    Confirm your full name, date of birth, nationality, and other personal details exactly as recorded in your passport.

  • Contact Information

    Provide an email address you can access, so you can receive application-related communications and any requests for additional information.

  • Travel Purpose

    Be ready to provide accurate information about the purpose of your visit or transit and select the travel arrangement that applies to you.

  • Eligibility Information

    Your passport and travel circumstances determine whether an NZeTA is appropriate. Additional eligibility questions may apply depending on your individual situation.

AVOID APPLICATION ERRORS

Common NZeTA Application Mistakes to Avoid

A few simple checks before submission can help prevent unnecessary corrections or requests for additional information.

  1. Using an Incorrect Passport Number

    Check every letter and number carefully against your passport bio page.

  2. Uploading an Unclear Passport Image

    Make sure the full information page is visible and readable, without glare, blur, or missing details.

  3. Submitting an Unsuitable Face Photograph

    Avoid edited images, filters, heavy shadows, distracting backgrounds, and photographs that do not clearly show your face.

  4. Entering Details That Do Not Match Your Passport

    Your application information should correspond to the passport you will use for travel.

  5. Selecting the Wrong Travel Purpose

    Visitor, transit, and other eligible travel arrangements can have different conditions. Provide the information that accurately describes your journey.

READY TO PREPARE YOUR APPLICATION?

Have Your Passport and Photograph Ready?

With your passport bio page and recent face photograph prepared, you can complete the next steps of your NZeTA application with greater confidence.

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