Travelling to New Zealand from the United States? With the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) for US Citizens, the entry process is straightforward and fully online. In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about the NZeTA for US citizens — eligibility, requirements, processing time, and more.
NZeTA Application Process for US Citizens
The NZeTA for US citizens is completed via an online application form that takes less than five minutes. Applicants must provide personal details, contact information, passport details, and upload a recent face photograph. Applicants must be in good health and must not have a criminal history. For full details, visit the New Zealand eTA Application Form Guide.
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying for an NZeTA, ensure you meet the following criteria:
- US Citizenship: Applicants must hold valid United States citizenship.
- Valid Passport: A passport valid for at least three months beyond the intended departure date from New Zealand is required.
- Health and Character Requirements: Applicants must meet health and character requirements set by New Zealand immigration authorities.
Application Steps
- Online Application: Complete the NZeTA application online, providing the necessary personal and travel information.
- Payment: Pay the applicable NZeTA fee using a valid credit or debit card.
- Confirmation: Upon successful submission, you will receive a confirmation email with your NZeTA reference number.
Processing Time
NZeTA applications for US citizens are typically processed within 72 hours. It is advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates to avoid any last-minute complications.
NZeTA Requirements for US Citizens
Passport
Ensure your passport meets the following requirements:
- Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure from New Zealand.
- Blank Pages: Make sure your passport has blank pages available for entry stamps.
Travel Itinerary
Provide details of your travel plans, including:
- Flight Bookings: Copies of your confirmed round-trip flight bookings.
- Accommodation: Details of your accommodation arrangements during your stay in New Zealand.
Health and Character
US citizens must meet specific health and character requirements:
- Health Insurance: It is advisable to have travel insurance covering medical expenses during your stay.
- Character Assessment: Applicants with criminal convictions or previous immigration violations may face additional scrutiny.
How long can US citizens stay on NZeTA?
US citizens can stay in New Zealand for up to 90 days per visit. The NZeTA is valid for 2 years from the date of approval and allows multiple entries into New Zealand during this period.
Which activities are not allowed for US citizens on New Zealand eTA?
The New Zealand eTA is much easier to apply for than a New Zealand Visitor Visa. The process can be completed entirely online in a matter of minutes. For more detail on permitted short-stay purposes, review the tourist visa, transit visa, and business visa guidance.
The following activities are not covered by the NZeTA. If you intend to do any of these, you must apply for a New Zealand Visa instead:
- Visiting New Zealand for medical treatment
- Work — you intend to join the New Zealand labour market
- Study
- Residence — you want to become a New Zealand resident
- Long-term stays of more than 3 months
Things To Do and Places of Interest for US Citizens
- Walk the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
- Explore the fjords of Fiordland National Park
- Visit the Waitomo Glowworm Caves
- Tour the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata
- Discover Milford Sound by boat
- Bungee jump with AJ Hackett in Queenstown
- Explore the Bay of Islands
- Visit Te Papa Museum in Wellington
- Experience Maori culture in Rotorua
- Hike the Routeburn Track
