New Zealand visa requirements depend on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and how long you plan to stay. Citizens of 60 visa waiver countries can enter New Zealand without a traditional visa but must obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before departure. All other nationalities must apply for a Visitor Visa through Immigration New Zealand. Every traveler, regardless of nationality, must complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) before arriving at passport control.
This guide covers every visa requirement for New Zealand: who needs a visa, who qualifies for visa-free entry, how the NZeTA works, what documents you need at the border, and how to apply for a Visitor Visa if your country is not on the visa waiver list.
Do You Need a Visa for New Zealand?
Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality. New Zealand divides travelers into three categories:
- Visa waiver travelers – Citizens of 60+ countries and territories who can enter without a Visitor Visa but must hold an NZeTA
- Australian citizens and permanent residents – Exempt from both visa and NZeTA requirements under the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement
- All other nationalities – Must apply for a Visitor Visa before traveling
The table below shows the main categories:
| Category | Visa Required? | NZeTA Required? | Max Stay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Australian citizen | No | No | Unlimited (residence on arrival) |
| Australian permanent resident | No | No (free NZeTA if PR holder) | Unlimited (residence on arrival) |
| UK citizen | No | Yes | 6 months |
| US citizen | No | Yes | 3 months (90 days) |
| Citizen of visa waiver country (3-month) | No | Yes | 3 months (90 days) |
| Citizen of non-visa-waiver country | Yes (Visitor Visa) | No | As per visa conditions |
| Transit passenger (visa waiver) | No | Yes (transit NZeTA) | 24 hours (airside only) |
Key point: Holding a visa or NZeTA does not guarantee entry. A border officer must grant you entry permission when you arrive in New Zealand.
New Zealand Visa Waiver Countries
New Zealand grants visa waiver status to citizens of approximately 60 countries and territories. Visa waiver travelers can stay for either 3 months or 6 months depending on their nationality.
Countries with 6-Month Visa Waiver
Only British citizens (and British passport holders with right of permanent residence in the UK) qualify for the 6-month visa waiver. This applies to stays for tourism, visiting family, or short-term business – not for medical treatment.
Countries with 3-Month Visa Waiver
All other visa waiver countries receive a maximum stay of 3 months (90 days). The full list includes:
Europe: Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Vatican City
Asia-Pacific: Brunei, Hong Kong (SAR passport), Japan, Macao (SAR passport), Malaysia, Mauritius, Seychelles, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan (with national ID number on passport)
Americas: Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Mexico, United States, Uruguay
Middle East: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates
Other: Israel
Important notes:
– Estonia and Latvia: Visa waiver does NOT apply to alien’s (non-citizen’s) passports
– Portugal: Holders must also have the right to live permanently in Portugal
– Taiwan: Must be a permanent resident traveling on a Taiwan passport with a personal identity number printed on the biographical page
Since November 2025, citizens of China and certain Pacific Islands Forum countries have also been granted visa waiver access under new arrangements.
New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA)
The NZeTA became mandatory on 1 October 2019 for all visa waiver travelers entering New Zealand by air or sea. It is an electronic authorization linked to your passport – you do not receive a physical label or stamp for the NZeTA itself.
NZeTA Key Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Who needs it | All visa waiver travelers (except Australian citizens) |
| Validity | 2 years from date of issue |
| Multiple entry | Yes – you can use it for multiple trips within 2 years |
| Processing time | Up to 72 hours (apply at least 3 business days before travel) |
| Cost (app) | NZD 17 |
| Cost (website) | NZD 23 |
| Transit NZeTA | NZD 23 (for transit passengers passing through NZ) |
How to Apply for an NZeTA
You can apply for an NZeTA through two channels:
- NZeTA mobile app (iOS and Android) – cheaper at NZD 17
- Immigration New Zealand website – NZD 23
You will need:
– A valid passport from a visa waiver country
– A credit or debit card for payment
– A recent passport-style photo (digital upload)
– Your travel details
After submitting your application, most NZeTAs are approved within 10 minutes to 72 hours. Immigration New Zealand recommends applying at least 3 business days before your departure date.
International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)
In addition to the NZeTA fee, most travelers must pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZD 100. This levy is collected at the time of your NZeTA or visa application.
IVL exemptions:
– Australian citizens and permanent residents
– Citizens of certain Pacific Island nations (Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Niue, Tuvalu, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Cook Islands, Tokelau, Papua New Guinea, Marshall Islands, Palau, Micronesia)
– Transit passengers arriving and departing from Auckland International Airport
– Holders of a Business Visitor Visa
– APEC Business Travel Card holders
Visitor Visa Requirements for Non-Waiver Countries
If your country is not on the visa waiver list, you must apply for a New Zealand Visitor Visa before traveling. You can apply online through Immigration New Zealand or in person at a Visa Application Center (VFS Global).
Visitor Visa Types
| Visa Type | Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Visitor Visa | Up to 9 months | Tourism, visiting family/friends |
| Group Visitor Visa | Up to 30 days | Organized tour groups |
| Business Visitor Visa | Up to 3 months | Business meetings, conferences, negotiations |
| Parent/Grandparent Visitor Visa | Up to 6 months | Visiting children/grandchildren in NZ |
Documents Required for a Visitor Visa
To apply for a New Zealand Visitor Visa, you generally need:
- Valid passport – must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date from New Zealand
- Completed application form – INZ 1017 (Visitor Visa Application)
- Two recent passport-sized photos – taken within the last 6 months
- Proof of sufficient funds – NZD 1,000 per person per month of stay (or NZD 400 per month if accommodation is prepaid)
- Proof of onward or return travel – a confirmed flight booking leaving New Zealand
- Proof of accommodation – hotel bookings, invitation letter from a host, or other accommodation arrangements
- Travel insurance – recommended but not always mandatory
- Health and character requirements – you may need a medical certificate or police clearance depending on your nationality and length of stay
- Application fee – varies by nationality and application method
How to Apply for a Visitor Visa Online
- Create a RealMe account on the Immigration New Zealand website
- Complete the online application form
- Upload scanned copies of all required documents (PDF format, max 10 MB per file)
- Upload a passport-style photo (JPEG format)
- Pay the application fee by Visa or MasterCard
- Submit the application and wait for a decision
- If approved, you will receive an eVisa confirmation letter – print this and carry it when you travel
Processing times vary but typically take 20 to 30 working days for online applications.
Passport Validity and Entry Requirements
Regardless of whether you need a visa or an NZeTA, you must meet these passport and entry requirements at the New Zealand border:
Passport Rules
- Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date from New Zealand
- Your passport must not be reported lost or stolen
- You will be denied entry if you attempt to use an invalid or damaged passport
Border Requirements
At the New Zealand border, you must be able to show:
- A valid passport
- Your NZeTA (for visa waiver travelers) or Visitor Visa
- A completed New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD)
- Proof of a return or onward ticket
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay (NZD 1,000 per person per month, or NZD 400 if accommodation is prepaid)
- Documents required for your next destination, if applicable
New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD)
Every person entering New Zealand must complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) before reaching passport control. This applies to all travelers, regardless of nationality or visa type.
The NZTD is free and can be completed through:
– The NZTD online form at the official website
– The NZTD mobile app (iOS and Android)
– A paper declaration form (for travelers who cannot complete it online)
You can submit your declaration starting 24 hours before your flight departs for New Zealand (or 24 hours before your vessel’s last foreign port if traveling by sea). It must be submitted by the time you reach passport control.
Transit Requirements for New Zealand
If you are passing through New Zealand on your way to another country, you may need a transit NZeTA. Transit is only available at Auckland Airport, and transit passengers must remain in the transit area for a maximum of 24 hours.
Who Needs a Transit NZeTA
| Traveler Type | Transit NZeTA Required? |
|---|---|
| New Zealand citizen | No |
| Australian citizen | No |
| Visa waiver traveler | Yes |
| Transit visa exempt (specific countries) | No |
| All other nationalities | Transit Visa required |
Transit Visa Waiver Countries
Citizens of certain countries can transit through New Zealand without a visa if they hold a transit NZeTA. These include citizens of:
- All visa waiver countries listed above
- China (PRC passport holders with a transit NZeTA)
- Fiji, Indonesia, Kiribati, Nauru, Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu (with conditions)
- Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam (with conditions)
- India (with conditions)
If your nationality does not qualify for transit visa waiver, you must apply for a Transit Visa before traveling through New Zealand.
Visa Requirements by Nationality
United States Citizens
US citizens can visit New Zealand without a visa for up to 3 months (90 days) for tourism or business. You need:
– A valid US passport (3+ months validity beyond departure)
– An NZeTA (apply via app for NZD 17 or website for NZD 23)
– IVL payment of NZD 100
– A completed NZTD
For stays longer than 90 days, you must apply for a Visitor Visa.
United Kingdom Citizens
UK citizens enjoy the longest visa waiver period at 6 months without a visa. Requirements:
– A valid UK passport (3+ months validity beyond departure)
– An NZeTA
– IVL payment of NZD 100
– A completed NZTD
British National (Overseas) passport holders (BNO – Hong Kong) also qualify for visa waiver with NZeTA.
Indian Citizens
Indian citizens do not qualify for visa waiver and must apply for a Visitor Visa before traveling to New Zealand. You will need:
– A valid Indian passport
– A completed Visitor Visa application (INZ 1017)
– Proof of funds (NZD 1,000/month)
– Return flight booking
– Accommodation proof
– Medical and police certificates may be required
Processing times for Indian applicants typically range from 20 to 30 working days.
Chinese Citizens
As of November 2025, Chinese citizens with a PRC passport have been granted visa waiver access to New Zealand. This is a recent policy change. Requirements:
– A valid PRC passport
– An NZeTA
– IVL payment of NZD 100
– A completed NZTD
For transit through New Zealand, Chinese citizens can use a transit NZeTA.
Australian Citizens
Australian citizens do not need a visa, NZeTA, or IVL to enter New Zealand. Under the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement, Australian citizens are granted residence on arrival in New Zealand. You simply need a valid Australian passport.
Australian permanent residents (who are not Australian citizens) are also granted residence on arrival but may need to obtain a free NZeTA if they hold a Permanent Residence Visa or Resident Return Visa.
How Long Does It Take to Get a New Zealand Visa?
| Document | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| NZeTA | 10 minutes to 72 hours |
| Transit NZeTA | 10 minutes to 72 hours |
| Visitor Visa (online) | 20-30 working days |
| Visitor Visa (paper) | 25-35 working days |
| Student Visa | 4-8 weeks |
| Work Visa | 4-12 weeks (varies by category) |
Apply well in advance of your travel date. Immigration New Zealand recommends applying for an NZeTA at least 3 business days before departure and for a Visitor Visa at least 6-8 weeks before your intended travel date.
FAQs About New Zealand Visa Requirements
Do I need a visa to visit New Zealand?
It depends on your nationality. Citizens of approximately 60 visa waiver countries can visit without a Visitor Visa but must obtain an NZeTA before traveling. All other nationalities need a Visitor Visa. Australian citizens do not need either a visa or an NZeTA.
What is the difference between an NZeTA and a visa?
An NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) is a simplified electronic authorization for citizens of visa waiver countries. It is cheaper (NZD 17-23 + NZD 100 IVL), faster to obtain (up to 72 hours), and valid for 2 years with multiple entries. A Visitor Visa is required for non-waiver nationalities, costs more, takes 20-30 working days to process, and is issued for a single trip or specific duration.
How much does a New Zealand visa cost?
The NZeTA costs NZD 17 via the mobile app or NZD 23 via the website, plus the NZD 100 International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL). The total for visa waiver travelers is NZD 117 (app) or NZD 123 (website). Visitor Visa fees vary by nationality and application method.
How long can I stay in New Zealand without a visa?
UK citizens can stay up to 6 months without a visa. Citizens of all other visa waiver countries can stay up to 3 months (90 days). Australian citizens can stay indefinitely as they are granted residence on arrival.
Can I work in New Zealand on an NZeTA or Visitor Visa?
No. The NZeTA and Visitor Visa are for tourism, visiting family, and short-term business activities only (meetings, conferences, negotiations). You cannot undertake employment or study. To work or study in New Zealand, you must apply for the appropriate Work Visa or Student Visa.
Do I need an NZeTA if I am just transiting through New Zealand?
Yes, in most cases. Transit passengers passing through Auckland Airport need a transit NZeTA (NZD 23) unless they are Australian citizens, New Zealand citizens, or exempt under specific provisions. Transit is only available at Auckland Airport, and you must remain in the transit area for a maximum of 24 hours.
What is the New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD)?
The NZTD is a mandatory declaration that every person entering New Zealand must complete before reaching passport control. It is free and can be completed online, via the NZTD app, or on paper. You can submit it starting 24 hours before your flight departs. It collects information about your travel, health, and customs declarations.
What happens if I overstay my visa in New Zealand?
Overstaying your visa or NZeTA-authorized stay in New Zealand is a serious immigration offense. You may face deportation, a ban on returning to New Zealand for a specified period (typically 5 years), and potential fines. Overstaying also affects future visa applications to New Zealand and other countries that share immigration data, including Australia.
Can I extend my stay in New Zealand?
You may be able to apply for a visa extension or a new visa while in New Zealand, depending on your current visa type and circumstances. Apply before your current visa expires through Immigration New Zealand. You cannot extend an NZeTA – if you need to stay longer than your NZeTA allows, you must apply for a Visitor Visa.
Do children need an NZeTA to travel to New Zealand?
Yes. Every traveler, including infants and children, who is a citizen of a visa waiver country must have their own NZeTA to enter New Zealand. Each NZeTA is linked to an individual passport. Parents or guardians can apply on behalf of their children.
Can I apply for a New Zealand visa on arrival?
No. New Zealand does not offer visas on arrival. You must obtain either an NZeTA (for visa waiver travelers) or a Visitor Visa (for non-waiver nationalities) before you board your flight or ship to New Zealand. Airlines will check for a valid NZeTA or visa before allowing you to board.
