Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA)
General Questions
What is an NZeTA?
The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) is an electronic travel authorization that allows certain individuals to travel to New Zealand without first applying for a visa. It is electronically linked to your passport.
What is an NZeTA used for?
An NZeTA can be used for tourism, business visits, or transit purposes through New Zealand.
How long is an NZeTA valid for?
An NZeTA is valid for 2 years from the date of approval, allowing multiple entries to New Zealand within this period.
How long can I stay in New Zealand with an NZeTA?
You can visit for up to 3 months at a time with an NZeTA. UK citizens can stay for up to 6 months. However, you cannot spend more than 6 months in New Zealand within any 12-month period.
Eligibility
Who needs an NZeTA?
You may need an NZeTA if you are: a citizen of a visa waiver country, a citizen of China or a Pacific Islands Forum country travelling from Australia with an eligible Australian visa, arriving on a cruise ship or cargo ship as a passenger, an Australian permanent resident, or transiting through New Zealand to another country.
Who does NOT need an NZeTA?
Australian citizens traveling on an Australian passport do not need an NZeTA or a visa to enter New Zealand.
Can I work in New Zealand with an NZeTA?
No, the NZeTA is a visitor authorization and not for work purposes. You need a work visa to be employed in New Zealand.
Requirements
What documents do I need to apply for an NZeTA?
You will need: a valid passport (valid for at least 3 months after your planned departure from New Zealand), a debit or credit card for payment, an email address, and a digital photo of your face meeting NZeTA requirements.
What are the passport requirements?
Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date from New Zealand.
Do I need proof of onward travel?
Yes, you must have evidence of onward travel arrangements, including an outbound travel ticket from New Zealand.
How much money do I need to show?
You need enough money to live on while in New Zealand - at least NZD $1,000 for each month of stay, or NZD $400 per month if your accommodation is already paid for.
Processing & Application
How long does it take to process an NZeTA?
Standard processing typically takes up to 24-72 hours. However, some applications may be processed in as little as 30-90 minutes. We recommend applying well in advance of your travel date.
Can I apply for express processing?
Yes, express processing is available which takes 12-24 hours, but it could be processed as quickly as 30-90 minutes.
How do I check my NZeTA status?
You can check your application status using our NZeTA Status page. You will need your application reference number and passport details.
When should I apply for my NZeTA?
We recommend applying at least 72 hours before your planned travel to New Zealand to ensure your application is processed in time.
Fees & Payment
How much does an NZeTA cost?
The NZeTA application fee varies depending on the processing type you choose. Our fees are inclusive of the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL).
What is the IVL?
The International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) is a fee that helps fund conservation projects and tourism infrastructure in New Zealand. This is included in our NZeTA application fees.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit and debit cards including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
Is my payment secure?
Yes, all payments are processed through secure payment gateways with industry-standard encryption to protect your financial information.
Transit & Travel
Do I need an NZeTA if I am just transiting through New Zealand?
Yes, if you are passing through Auckland International Airport for up to 24 hours and staying in the transit area or on your plane, with baggage checked for your onward flight, you need a Transit NZeTA.
What is the difference between Tourist and Transit NZeTA?
A Tourist NZeTA allows you to enter New Zealand for tourism or business purposes and stay for up to 3 months (or 6 months for UK citizens). A Transit NZeTA is for travelers who are passing through New Zealand to another destination and will stay in the transit area for up to 24 hours.
Can I enter New Zealand multiple times with one NZeTA?
Yes, your NZeTA allows multiple entries to New Zealand over its 2-year validity period, as long as each stay does not exceed the maximum allowed duration.
Common Issues
What if my NZeTA application is declined?
If your application is declined, you will be notified via email with the reason. You may need to apply for a visitor visa instead, or you can contact us for assistance.
Can I modify my application after submission?
Once submitted, you cannot modify your application. If you made an error, please contact us immediately for assistance.
What if my passport expires before my NZeTA?
Your NZeTA is linked to your passport. If you get a new passport, you will need to apply for a new NZeTA as it cannot be transferred.
I did not receive my NZeTA confirmation email. What should I do?
First, check your spam/junk folder. If you still cannot find it, contact us with your application reference number and we will resend your confirmation.
Still Have Questions?
Our support team is here to help you with any questions about your NZeTA application.