What is the New Zealand eTA (NZeTA)?
The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) is a pre-travel authorisation required for visitors from visa-waiver countries who wish to travel to New Zealand for short stays of up to 90 days. British nationals may stay for up to 6 months. The NZeTA is granted through a simple online application and was introduced to streamline border screening while making travel easier for eligible nationalities.
Applicants complete a straightforward online form providing personal details, travel information and passport data. For tourists, the payment includes the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL). Australian permanent residents are not required to pay the IVL.
Authorised Stay and Validity
The New Zealand NZeTA grants visitors a stay of up to 90 days per visit (up to 6 months for British nationals).
You can apply for the NZeTA at any time before your travel date. Most applications are processed within 72 hours, though some may take up to 3 business days. The NZeTA is valid for 2 years from the date of approval and allows multiple entries to New Zealand.
Passport Guidelines for the NZeTA
Applicants must have a valid passport, which must have a minimum validity of three (3) months beyond the expected date of departure. New Zealand eTA holders will be granted a 90-day stay at one of the designated ports of entry in New Zealand.
European Union Citizens
Other Eligible Countries
Transit Visa Waiver Countries
Eligibility Criteria for NZeTA
Age Requirements
There is no minimum age requirement for the NZeTA. Every traveler, including infants and children, must have their own NZeTA before traveling. For minors, a parent or guardian must complete the application on their behalf.
Nationality Requirements
Citizens of visa waiver countries are eligible to apply for an NZeTA visa. However, citizens of countries not on the visa waiver list must apply for a visitor visa through the traditional process.
Travel Plans
You must have a valid travel itinerary, including a return ticket or proof of onward travel, to apply for an NZeTA visa.
Application Process for NZeTA
Obtaining an NZeTA visa is a straightforward process:
- Complete the online application form
- Pay the required visa fee using a credit or debit card.
- Upload scanned copies of necessary documents, including your passport and recent photograph.
- Await approval, which is typically processed within 72 hours.
Processing Time and Fees
The processing time for an NZeTA visa is usually within 72 hours. The visa fee varies depending on the type of traveler, with different rates for tourists, transit passengers, and cruise ship passengers.
NZeTA Validity
Once approved, the NZeTA is valid for multiple visits to New Zealand for up to two years from the date of issue, or until your passport expires — whichever comes first. Each visit must not exceed 90 days (6 months for British nationals). The NZeTA cannot be extended or renewed; when it expires you must apply for a new one.
