New Zealand eTA Overview — NZeTA Guide

The NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) is the New Zealand government's online pre-travel authorisation system for visitors from visa-waiver countries. Launched in August 2019, the NZeTA replaced the need for eligible travellers to obtain a traditional visa for short-term visits, making travel to New Zealand faster and more accessible. This page provides a complete overview of the NZeTA — what it is, who needs it, how it works, and how to apply.

What is the NZeTA?

The NZeTA is an electronic authorisation that is stored digitally and linked directly to your passport. It is not a physical stamp or sticker — it exists entirely in New Zealand's immigration system and is verified automatically when you check in for your flight and again when you arrive at the New Zealand border. Because it is electronic, there is no need to visit an embassy, consulate, or high commission, and no need to courier your passport for stamping.

The NZeTA is valid for 2 years from the date of approval and allows multiple entries to New Zealand within that period. Each individual stay must not exceed 90 days (or 6 months for UK passport holders). The NZeTA includes the mandatory International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL), a NZD $35 government charge that funds New Zealand's conservation and tourism infrastructure. For full pricing details, see our NZeTA Cost page.

Who Needs an NZeTA?

The NZeTA is required for nationals of New Zealand's approved visa-waiver countries who are travelling to New Zealand for:

• Tourism and holidays
• Visiting family or friends
• Business meetings, conferences, or training
• Transit through New Zealand to another destination
• Unpaid amateur sporting or cultural activities

Cruise ship passengers of any nationality are also required to hold an NZeTA when arriving in New Zealand by sea — the NZeTA for cruise arrivals is open to all nationalities, unlike the air travel requirement. Airline crew and cruise ship crew members also require an NZeTA. For a complete list of eligible countries, see our NZeTA Information page.

Who is Exempt from the NZeTA?

• New Zealand citizens — no authorisation required.
• Australian citizens travelling on an Australian passport — exempt from NZeTA and IVL.
• Holders of a valid New Zealand visa including permanent residents — visa serves as authorisation.
• Nationals of non-visa-waiver countries arriving by air — must apply for a standard New Zealand visitor visa instead of an NZeTA.

What the NZeTA Does NOT Permit

The NZeTA is designed for short-term visitors only. It does not permit the following:

• Working or taking paid employment in New Zealand
• Studying for longer than 3 months
• Medical treatment requiring a Medical Treatment Visit Visa
• Staying longer than the permitted duration (90 days, or 6 months for UK nationals)

If you wish to work, study long-term, or stay beyond the NZeTA's permitted duration, you must apply for the appropriate New Zealand visa category.

How the NZeTA Application Works

The entire NZeTA application is completed online — no embassy visit, no paper forms, no appointment required. There is no requirement to:

• Visit a New Zealand Embassy, Consulate, or High Commission
• Courier your passport for visa stamping
• Make an appointment for an interview
• Pay by cheque, cash, or over the counter

The online application form asks a straightforward set of questions about your personal details, passport information, travel plans, and standard New Zealand immigration eligibility questions about health and character. Most applicants complete the form in under 10 minutes. Once submitted and payment is made, a decision is reached by New Zealand Immigration — typically within 1 business day, with a maximum of 72 hours in some cases. You will be notified of the outcome by email.

After Approval — What to Do

Once your NZeTA is approved, it is stored electronically and linked to your passport number. You do not need to print it — airlines and New Zealand border officials verify your NZeTA status digitally. Simply travel with the same passport used in your application.

At check-in, your airline will confirm your NZeTA status automatically. On arrival in New Zealand, your passport will be scanned at the border and your NZeTA verified. You will be asked to present a completed arrival declaration card (provided on your flight) and proceed through standard customs and biosecurity checks. An approved NZeTA authorises you to travel to New Zealand — entry remains subject to the assessment of border officials on arrival.

For a complete step-by-step guide to your first NZeTA application and what to expect at the New Zealand border, see our First-Time Visitor Guide.