New Zealand has specific requirements for entering the country, which may apply to you. It is important to make sure you meet the entry requirements before departing for your trip. This blog has everything you need to know about the Visas, NZeTA and IVL and how to apply.
You will need to apply for an NZeTA if you are travelling on a passport from a visa waiver country and are visiting New Zealand for up to 3 months at a time (or up to 6 months if you are a British citizen). If you are travelling on a passport that is not included in the visa waiver country list, will work or study while you are in New Zealand, or plan to stay an extended period of time, you will likely need to apply for a visa.
If you are travelling on a passport from a visa waiver country and only transiting through New Zealand, you still require an NZeTA.
Australian residents need to apply for an NZeTA (Australian citizens traveling on an Australian passport are exempt).
If you don’t have a valid NZeTA when checking in for your flight, you will be denied boarding.
The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority is a border security measure which was introduced by the New Zealand Government for travellers entering the country from 2019. The main purpose of the NZeTA is to strengthen and speed up border security when you enter the country. Visitors and transit passengers can apply for the NZeTA online; processing time can take up to 72 hours. The NZeTA lasts up to two years and can be used for multiple visits within that time frame.
It is important to note that the NZeTA is not a visa and doesn’t guarantee entry into New Zealand. All travellers will still need to meet the existing entry requirements for their particular passports.
If you are a New Zealand or Australian Passport holder you don’t require an NZeTA. If you are travelling on a passport which holds a valid visa to enter New Zealand, then you do not need to apply for an NZeTA.
You can apply for an NZeTA online but make sure you are applying on the official New Zealand Government website. There is also an official Immigration NZ (INZ) mobile app you can use. Your Travel Agent can also help you fill in the mobile app or website form but they will require your consent and the following information from you:
Passport details
A recent photo
Contact details such as an email address
Proof of eligibility to travel to NZ such as a declaration about criminal conviction history and reason for travel.
There is a small fee to pay for your NZeTA
NZ$17 for NZeTA requests via mobile app
NZ$23 for NZeTA requests via the website registration form
IVL stands for International Visitors Conservation and Tourism Levy. The IVL has been established due to the increasing number of visitors to New Zealand over the past few years. It's an easy way for them to contribute towards New Zealand's tourism infrastructure and help protect the country's natural environment.
Most people entering New Zealand on a temporary basis will need to pay the International Visitor Levy. It is best to ask your Travel agent if you need to pay the IVL before you leave for your trip or you can check using the online tool.
You do not need to pay the IVL if you hold a New Zealand or Australian Passport or a passport from many Pacific Island nations. If you hold a New Zealand residents' visa you will also not need to pay the IVL. If you are transiting New Zealand on a transit visa or transit NZeTA you do not need to pay the IVL. If you are unsure if your visa exempts you from paying an IVL, please check with your Travel Agent or by using the online tool.
You can pay for your IVL and NZeTA in the same transaction. For passport holders who require a visa to enter New Zealand (such as a visitors visa, study visa or work visa), you can pay for your IVL in the same transaction when you apply for your visa. The IVL costs NZ$100 (from 1 October 2024); if you are required to pay, the levy will be charged automatically to make it easier for you.
We look forward to welcoming you to New Zealand. For a stress-free arrival make sure to talk to your Travel Agent about your entry requirements before you leave on your trip of a lifetime.
See you soon!
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