Travellers Eligible for a New Zealand NZeTA

Citizens of countries on New Zealand’s visa-waiver list may be able to travel to New Zealand for short visits using a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) instead of a traditional visitor visa. If your passport is from a visa-waiver country, you generally need to get an approved NZeTA before travelling by air or cruise. Otherwise, you will not be allowed to board.

Eligibility is based on passport nationality. Living in a visa-waiver country does not make you eligible unless your passport is from a visa-waiver country.

Who Falls Under the Visa-Waiver Category?

You may use an NZeTA if you:

  • Hold a passport from a visa-waiver country

  • Are travelling to New Zealand by plane or cruise

  • Intend to visit for tourism, short-term business, family visits or transit

  • Meet all entry requirements at the border

An approved NZeTA is typically valid for multiple entries over up to two(2) years, or until your passport expires, whichever is earlier. Each stay allowed is normally up to 3 months, though some nationalities, such as UK passport holders, may be allowed up to 6 months on each visit.

Special Cases and Exceptions

  • Australian citizens do not need an NZeTA or a visa to enter New Zealand under the Trans-Tasman travel arrangement.

  • Australian permanent residents generally do need an NZeTA before travelling to New Zealand.

  • Travellers transiting through New Zealand may also need an NZeTA depending on their passport and transit details.

  • New Zealand citizens must travel on a New Zealand passport and do not apply for an NZeTA.

  • If you already hold a valid New Zealand visa, you do not need an NZeTA to travel.

Important Conditions to Note

Having an approved NZeTA does not guarantee entry into New Zealand. Border officers still assess your admissibility on arrival based on health, character, security and onward travel.

An NZeTA is only for short visits. It does not permit you to work, study long-term, or live in New Zealand permanently. If you plan to undertake activities beyond a short-term visit, you must secure the appropriate visa before travelling.