Planning a trip from France to New Zealand? French passport holders can generally visit New Zealand for a short stay without applying for a traditional visitor visa, but they must obtain an approved New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before travelling.
This guide explains the NZeTA for French citizens, including eligibility, application steps, costs, validity, entry requirements and common mistakes to avoid before your departure.
Do French Citizens Need an NZeTA for New Zealand?
Yes. French citizens travelling on a French passport for a short visit generally need an approved NZeTA before boarding a flight or cruise to New Zealand.
France is on New Zealand's visa-waiver list. This means eligible French passport holders can usually travel for tourism or certain short business visits without obtaining a traditional visitor visa in advance. However, visa-waiver status does not remove the NZeTA requirement.
You may be asked to show evidence of your onward travel, sufficient funds for your stay and other documents when you arrive.
Important: An NZeTA is a travel authority, not a visa or a guarantee of entry. New Zealand border officials make the final decision on admission.
Who Is Eligible for an NZeTA with a French Passport?
You may be eligible for an NZeTA if you:
-
Hold a valid French passport.
-
Plan to visit New Zealand for a permitted short stay.
-
Meet New Zealand's entry and character requirements.
-
Have an onward or return ticket when required.
-
Can demonstrate that you have enough money to support your visit.
-
Intend to follow the conditions of your stay.
French citizens visiting for tourism, visiting family or friends, or attending permitted short business activities may qualify.
However, if you intend to work, study beyond permitted limits, live in New Zealand or stay longer than your visa-waiver conditions allow, you may need a different visa.
Your eligibility can also depend on your circumstances, travel history and purpose of travel. Check the official immigration requirements before booking your trip.
How to Apply for an NZeTA from France
The application process is straightforward when you have your travel documents ready. Follow these steps to reduce the risk of mistakes.
Step 1: Prepare Your French Passport
Keep your valid French passport available before starting your application. Enter your personal details exactly as they appear in the passport, including your full name, date of birth and passport number.
Even a small typing error can cause problems during travel.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
Visit the NZeTA application page to begin your request through our visa service website.
Carefully provide the requested personal information, passport details, travel information and eligibility answers. Review every field before submitting your application.
Step 3: Pay the Applicable Charges
The total cost may include the NZeTA fee, the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL), where applicable, and any service fee charged by your chosen application provider.
Check the applicable charges before payment so you understand what is included.
Step 4: Wait for the Decision
After submitting your request, allow time for processing. Some applications may be approved quickly, while others can take longer if additional checks are required.
Do not assume that submitting an application means you have permission to travel. Wait for confirmation of your approved NZeTA before departure.
Step 5: Check Your Details Before Flying
Once your NZeTA is approved, confirm that your passport details match your travel document. Keep your approval confirmation accessible and ensure you travel using the passport associated with your NZeTA.
Airlines may check your travel authority before allowing you to board.
NZeTA Fees and Processing Time for French Citizens
Before submitting your NZeTA France application, understand the main costs and processing expectations.
|
Requirement |
Details |
|
NZeTA validity |
Generally 2 years for travellers |
|
Permitted stay |
Usually up to 3 months per visit |
|
Official processing guidance |
Allow up to 72 hours |
|
NZeTA fee |
Starts at NZD $17 through the official app or NZD $23 through the official website |
|
International Visitor Levy |
NZD $100 for most visitors who are required to pay it |
Fees and requirements can change. Your total cost may be higher if you use a third-party application service.
Immigration New Zealand recommends allowing up to 72 hours for processing. Apply well before your departure rather than waiting until the last minute. Third-party services cannot guarantee faster government processing.
Immigration New Zealand+2
How Long Can French Citizens Stay in New Zealand?
French passport holders travelling under the visa-waiver programme can generally stay in New Zealand for up to three months per visit, provided they meet the entry requirements.
Your NZeTA is generally valid for two years, allowing multiple trips during its validity. However, the two-year validity does not mean you can stay continuously in New Zealand for two years.
For example, if you travel from France to Auckland for a two-week holiday, you can generally use your approved NZeTA for that trip. You may also use it for another eligible visit while it remains valid, subject to the applicable entry conditions.
If you plan to stay longer than three months, work in New Zealand or undertake medical treatment, check whether you need a different visa before travelling.
Immigration New Zealand+2
What Documents Should You Prepare?
Before your departure, make sure you have the following documents ready:
-
Valid French passport: Your passport must meet New Zealand's validity requirements, including being valid for at least three months after your planned departure from New Zealand.
-
Approved NZeTA: Keep your confirmation email accessible.
-
Return or onward ticket: Be prepared to show evidence that you intend to leave New Zealand.
-
Proof of funds: You may need to demonstrate that you can cover your expenses.
-
Accommodation details: Keep your hotel booking or accommodation information available.
-
New Zealand Traveller Declaration: Complete the required traveller declaration before arrival, following the current instructions.
These documents can help demonstrate that you meet the requirements for a short visit. Final entry permission remains subject to the decision of New Zealand's immigration authorities.
Immigration New Zealand+1
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for an NZeTA
A few simple checks can help prevent unnecessary travel problems.
1. Entering incorrect passport details: Check your passport number, name and date of birth before submitting your application.
2. Applying too late: Allow up to 72 hours for processing and additional time if your circumstances require further checks.
3. Assuming approval guarantees entry: An approved NZeTA allows you to travel to New Zealand, but you must still meet the entry requirements.
4. Choosing the wrong travel authority: If you intend to work, study for longer than permitted or stay beyond the visa-waiver period, check the appropriate visa category.
5. Using a different passport: Travel using the passport associated with your NZeTA. If you receive a new passport, check whether you need to request a new NZeTA.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can French citizens travel to New Zealand without a visa?
French citizens can generally visit New Zealand for up to three months without applying for a traditional visitor visa in advance. However, an approved NZeTA is normally required before travel.
2. How long does an NZeTA take for French citizens?
Immigration New Zealand advises travellers to allow up to 72 hours. Processing can vary, so submit your application well before your departure date.
3. How much does an NZeTA cost for French citizens?
The official NZeTA fee starts at NZD $17 through the official mobile app or NZD $23 through the official website. Most visitors also pay the NZD $100 International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy. Additional third-party service fees may apply.
Immigration New Zealand+2
4. Can I use my NZeTA for multiple trips to New Zealand?
Generally, yes. A traveller's NZeTA is valid for two years and can be used for multiple eligible trips, provided it remains valid and you continue to meet the entry requirements.
Apply for Your NZeTA Before Travelling to New Zealand
Planning your trip from France to New Zealand is easier when you arrange your travel authority early. Check your passport details, confirm your eligibility and allow sufficient time for processing.
Ready to prepare your application? Visit our NZeTA Apply Now page to get started.
Apply early, review your information carefully and travel with greater confidence. Please remember that nzetaonlinevisa.com is a third-party visa service provider, not an official New Zealand government website. Government fees, eligibility requirements and processing decisions are determined by Immigration New Zealand.
