Proper preparation makes your NZeTA application quick and painless. This comprehensive checklist ensures you have everything ready before you start, helping you avoid delays and mistakes.
Essential Documents
1. Valid Passport
Your passport is the most critical document. Ensure it meets these requirements:
- Validity: Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your departure date from New Zealand
- Condition: In good physical condition with readable information
- Blank pages: At least one blank page for entry stamps
- Type: Must be an ordinary passport (special rules apply for diplomatic/official passports)
2. Passport Digital Scan
You'll need a clear digital copy of your passport's photo page. Requirements:
- Format: JPG, JPEG, or PNG
- Size: Under 4MB
- Quality: High resolution with all text readable
- Complete: Must show entire passport photo page
- Color: Preferably color scan, not black and white
Tip: Take a well-lit photo with your smartphone, ensuring the entire page is visible and text is sharp.
3. Recent Passport Photo
A digital passport-style photo meeting New Zealand specifications:
- Age: Taken within the last 6 months
- Background: Plain light-colored background (white, off-white, or light gray)
- Face: Full face view, looking straight at camera
- Expression: Neutral expression, mouth closed
- Eyes: Open with face visible
- Head coverings: Only for religious or medical reasons
- Glasses: No sunglasses; regular glasses only if necessary, with no glare
- Format: JPG, JPEG, or PNG under 4MB
Tip: Use our sample photos when uploading documents to see what's acceptable.
Personal Information Required
Basic Details
Have this information ready:
- Full legal name (exactly as shown in passport)
- Date of birth
- Place of birth (city and country)
- Gender
- Nationality/citizenship
- Current country of residence
Passport Information
- Passport number
- Passport issue date
- Passport expiry date
- Country of issue
- Previous passports (if applicable)
Contact Information
- Email address (for correspondence and approval)
- Phone number (including country code)
- Home address
Travel Information
Trip Details
Prepare information about your New Zealand visit:
- Intended arrival date
- Intended departure date
- Purpose of visit (tourism, business, transit)
- Flight details (if available)
- Accommodation details
- Contact person in New Zealand (if applicable)
Travel History
Be prepared to answer questions about:
- Previous visits to New Zealand
- Previous visa applications or refusals
- Travel to other countries in the past 5 years
Health and Character Questions
Health Information
You'll be asked about:
- Tuberculosis (TB)
- Hospitalization for mental health conditions
- Conditions requiring significant healthcare
Note: Answer honestly. Providing false information can result in application denial and future entry bans.
Character Questions
Be ready to disclose:
- Criminal convictions (in any country)
- Pending criminal charges
- Deportation history
- Visa or entry refusals from any country
Payment Information
Payment Method
You'll need a valid:
- Credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)
- Debit card with credit function
Application Costs
Know the fees before starting:
- Tourist - Regular: $130 USD (includes NZeTA and IVL)
- Tourist - Express: $160 USD
- Transit - Regular: $75 USD
- Transit - Express: $90 USD
Additional Documents (If Applicable)
For Children
When applying for minors:
- Child's birth certificate (for reference)
- Consent letter from both parents (if traveling with one parent or alone)
- Parent/guardian identification
- Court documents (if applicable for custody situations)
For Name Changes
If your name differs from your passport:
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree
- Legal name change documentation
For Dual Citizens
- Information about all citizenships
- Details of all passports held
Technical Requirements
Device and Browser
Ensure you have:
- Computer, tablet, or smartphone with internet connection
- Updated web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge)
- Enabled cookies and JavaScript
- Stable internet connection
File Preparation
Before starting:
- Save passport scan and photo to your device
- Verify files are in correct format (JPG, JPEG, PNG)
- Check file sizes are under 4MB
- Test that files open correctly
Pre-Application Checklist
Complete this checklist before starting your application:
| ☐ | Passport valid for 3+ months beyond travel |
| ☐ | Clear passport scan ready |
| ☐ | Recent passport photo meeting requirements |
| ☐ | All personal details verified against passport |
| ☐ | Travel dates and accommodation information |
| ☐ | Health and character information prepared |
| ☐ | Valid payment method available |
| ☐ | Email address accessible |
| ☐ | Phone number with country code |
| ☐ | Additional documents (if needed) |
Tips for a Successful Application
Double-Check Everything
- Verify all information matches your passport exactly
- Check spelling of names (including middle names)
- Confirm dates are in correct format (DD/MM/YYYY)
- Review passport number carefully
Choose the Right Time
- Apply when you can focus without distractions
- Allow 15-20 minutes to complete the application
- Don't rush - accuracy is more important than speed
- Apply at least 72 hours before travel (or use express processing)
Save As You Go
- Save your application reference number
- Take screenshots of confirmation pages
- Save payment receipt
- Keep all emails from the NZeTA system
Have Help Available
If you need assistance:
- Have someone review your information before submitting
- Use translation services if English isn't your first language
- Contact our support if you have questions
- Don't guess - ask if you're unsure about any question
After Applying
What to Expect
- Immediate confirmation email with reference number
- Processing begins immediately
- Approval typically within 24-72 hours (regular) or 12-24 hours (express)
- Approval email with NZeTA details
Save Your Approval
Once approved:
- Save approval email
- Print a copy for your records
- Take a screenshot
- Note your NZeTA reference number
Common Preparation Mistakes
- Expired passport: Check validity before starting
- Poor quality photos: Use proper lighting and backgrounds
- Incorrect passport numbers: Type carefully and verify
- Missing middle names: Include all names from passport
- Wrong travel dates: Double-check your itinerary
Ready to Apply?
Now that you're fully prepared, start your NZeTA application with confidence. With all documents and information ready, the process takes just minutes.
For more information about the application process, visit www.nzeta.nz or review our frequently asked questions.
Proper preparation ensures a smooth application process and quick approval, getting you one step closer to your New Zealand adventure!
