Most travelers visiting New Zealand for a short stay or transiting through the country must obtain prior travel clearance through the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA). Introduced in 2019, this requirement was established to improve border safety measures and to make the entry process more efficient for eligible foreign nationals.

What Are the Key Objectives Behind the New Zealand ETA?

Function	Explanation
Visa-Free Authorisation	Confirms permission to travel without requiring a standard visitor or transit visa.
Advance Entry Validation	Allows for a more efficient boarding experience by confirming entry criteria before departure.
Border Risk Management	Conducts early digital screening to identify potential security concerns.
Visa-Waiver Assessment	Confirms whether the traveler qualifies for entry under the visa-waiver programme.
Digital Identity Linking	Connects the traveler’s details to the authorisation electronically for easier identity checks.

Who Requires the New Zealand ETA?

Nationals Eligible For New Zealand ETA must hold a valid authorisation before traveling, whether their purpose is tourism, business, or transit. This requirement applies to those arriving by air or sea, including travelers who are only passing through New Zealand without planning to stay.

What Are the Types of New Zealand ETA?

The New Zealand ETA recognises various categories based on the traveler’s purpose. These include entry for short-term visits, travel related to business activities, and transit through the country without entering New Zealand.

1. Transit New Zealand ETA:

The Transit New Zealand ETA applies to travelers who pass through a New Zealand airport on their way to another country and do not leave the airport during their stopover.

Number Of Entries	Maximum Stay	Validity
Multiple	Less than 24 hours	2 years

Pro Tip: If you're transiting through New Zealand, stay within the airport’s transit area and carry a valid onward ticket otherwise, you’ll need a general visitor New Zealand ETA.

2. New Zealand ETA For Australian PR Card Holders:

Travelers who hold an Australian residence card but are not citizens must apply for a New Zealand ETA before departure. This requirement allows non-citizen residents of Australia to enter New Zealand for tourism or transit purposes under the same conditions as other eligible travelers, provided they secure their New Zealand ETA in advance. Once granted, it enables a smooth entry experience and access to the same visitor privileges.

Number Of Entries	Maximum Stay	Validity
Multiple	3 months	2 years

3. New Zealand ETA For Cruise Ship Passengers:

Cruise ship passengers must obtain a valid New Zealand ETA before starting their journey. The travel authorisation applies regardless of the number of ports included in the itinerary.

All nationalities that are not included in the visa waiver list are eligible to apply for the Cruise ETA.

Applicants arriving in New Zealand via a cruise ship must hold an ETA before boarding their cruise. Upon arrival, passengers are deemed to have a Visitor visa, which allows a stay of 28 days (maximum) or the number of days before your cruise departure, whichever is shorter.

Number Of Entry	Maximum Stay	Validity
Multiple	28 days (Visitor Visa)	2 years

4. New Zealand ETA For General Visit (Tourist and Business Visit):

The New Zealand ETA for general visits permits individuals to enter the country for short-term tourism or business purposes. It does not grant permission to take part in any form of employment. Those planning to visit family members or attend a short business conference must hold a valid General Visit ETA before travelling.

Number Of Entry	Maximum Stay	Validity
Multiple	3 months	2 years

Point to Remember: The stay duration for UK nationals for the New Zealand ETA is up to 6 months.

What Documents Are Required for the New Zealand ETA?

Start your New Zealand ETA request by ensuring all personal information is ready and correct. Any mismatch or missing detail can slow down the processing.

Passport Bio Page:

You must use a passport that stays valid for no less than 3 months after your planned departure from New Zealand. The bio page must clearly show the following details:

1. Name
2. Passport Number
3. Date of issue/validity
4. Place Of Issue.
5. Date Of Birth
6. Nationality

Passport Size Photo:

Provide a recent passport-sized photograph scan taken against a clear background. The photo must show a neutral facial expression without any visible distractions.

How Can You Keep Your Documents Ready for the New Zealand ETA Application?

• Do not upload a passport that is torn, worn out, or damaged in any way, as it may lead to processing issues.
• Make sure your passport has enough unused pages available for immigration stamps and checks.
• The passport bio page must be clean, undamaged, and clearly legible. Any damage to this page can affect the outcome of your ETA request.
• The submitted photograph must not show any headwear, fashion accessories, or anything covering your face. Improper photos may lead to delays or rejection of your application.

How Is the New Zealand ETA Fee Structured?

The total fee for the New Zealand ETA depends on multiple elements included during the application process. Each applicant should review how the amount is applied. To find the exact cost, refer to the New Zealand ETA Fee page and use the fee tool available there.

• Applicable ETA Classification:

  New Zealand ETA is divided into distinct types, each based on the traveler’s reason for visiting the country. The type selected directly affects the total fee payable for the ETA.

• Variations in Exchange Rates:

  Fluctuations in currency value affect how much an applicant pays for the New Zealand ETA.

How Is the New Zealand ETA Application Processed?

We allow each applicant to choose the processing time for their New Zealand ETA based on how soon they wish to receive it. This gives them enough time to prepare for their trip and arrange their visit across the country.

Processing Type	Description	Reason
Normal Processing	This applies to applicants who submit their New Zealand ETA request well before their intended travel date. Under this method, the application is usually processed within 1-6 Working Days.	Provides a cost-effective option for applicants with flexible travel timelines.
Rush Processing	This option is for applicants who wish to prioritise their New Zealand ETA request, including those making last-minute travel plans. The application is processed within 1- 3 Working Days.	Helps travelers who finalise their plans close to the departure date and need faster results.

How Is the New Zealand ETA Processed Urgently?

The New Zealand ETA can be processed urgently for individuals who are really short on time. In such cases, the applicant can request priority handling of their application.

Processing Type	Description	Reason
Super Rush Processing	Super rush processing applies to travelers who need their New Zealand ETA urgently. It is the fastest processing option, with the application completed within 24 Hours.	Allows minimal wait time, helping applicants receive their travel approval on the same day.

How Can You Apply for the New Zealand ETA?

You can complete the New Zealand ETA application quickly by following a short process. It requires only basic details and takes minimal time when everything is prepared in advance.

How Can You Track the New Zealand ETA Application?

To know the progress of your New Zealand ETA application, you can check the New Zealand ETA Application Status page.

Step 1: Enter Order ID Number: Type your unique order ID number in the given field.

Step 2: Passport Number: Write the passport number shown in your passport.

Step 3: Input Captcha: Complete the captcha and click on the “check status” button. Your New Zealand ETA application result will appear on the screen and may reflect one of the following: approved, waiting for review, or delayed.

Can the New Zealand ETA Be Extended?

The New Zealand ETA does not allow any extension. After it expires, you must apply again by following the same process, providing travel details, passport information, and paying the required fee. Apply for a new ETA before planning your next visit.

What Are the Tips for a Successful New Zealand ETA Application?

• Check that every detail in your application is accurate and complete before submitting it.
• Ensure that you include all necessary documents, such as a valid passport and passport-sized photograph, as part of your application.
• Complete the application carefully and without rushing. Hurrying through the form may result in skipped steps or incorrect entries.
• If you are travelling with children, they must have their own ETA. Make sure their details are included in the application.

Conclusion

Apply for the New Zealand ETA with care and attention to each step. Ensure your details are correct, your documents are in order, and your travel purpose is clear. Doing so will help you complete the process without interruption.

Frequently Asked Questions?

What happens if my travel plans change after my ETA is approved? Can I apply for an ETA with a temporary travel pass or any document other than a passport? Does the ETA permit part-time work or study? Does this travel authority cover holders of special-purpose or diplomatic passports?

Content Disclaimer: Information provided here is based on details available as of May 2025. Travelers should confirm all requirements directly with embassies, airlines, or other official sources before finalising their travel plans.