Whether you're planning to explore New Zealand’s scenic landscapes or attend a business meeting, Malaysian travellers must obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) before departure. The NZ ETA is a digital travel authorisation that grants entry for short stays and is electronically linked to your passport. It is required for tourism, transit, or brief business visits.

How Do Malaysian Citizens Meet the Eligibility for a New Zealand ETA?

Malaysian nationals can apply for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority only if they meet the entry rules set for short visits. These rules define who is allowed to travel under this system and must be followed from the outset.

Declaration Type	Requirement
Health Declaration	Travellers must be in good health and may need to provide medical details based on recent travel history.
Character Declaration	Travellers must confirm they have no criminal history that could lead to refusal of entry into New Zealand.

Which Activities Are Allowed and Disallowed Under the NZ ETA for Malaysians?

The NZ ETA is granted for particular reasons of travel. Malaysian applicants should understand which uses are accepted and which are not, as this determines whether entry will be allowed upon arrival.

✅ Allowed Uses of the NZ ETA

1. Tourism, including holidays and sightseeing
2. Visiting family or friends for a short stay
3. Attending short business meetings or conferences
4. Transit through New Zealand to another destination
5. Participation in short recreational courses (non-accredited)

⛔ Disallowed Uses with the NZ ETA

1. Undertaking paid employment in New Zealand
2. Enrolling in long-term or full-time study programs
3. Living or settling permanently in New Zealand
4. Engaging in medical treatment without prior approval

Why Is the NZ ETA Beneficial for Malaysian Travellers?

The NZ ETA holds specific benefits for Malaysian citizens travelling to New Zealand. It supports short-term entry in a manner consistent with the entry conditions in place.

• Secure and Paperless: Stored electronically with the traveller's passport, eliminating the need for physical documents.
• Ideal for Short-Term Plans: Covers temporary entry for tourism, business purposes, or transit through New Zealand.
• Facilitates Entry Processing: Helps reduce delays at border control by confirming traveller details in advance.

Which Documents Must Malaysian Citizens Submit for an NZ ETA?

When applying for the New Zealand ETA, Malaysian citizens are expected to provide specific documentation as part of the application process.

1. Malaysian Valid Passport

   Malaysian applicants must hold a passport valid for at least 3 months after leaving New Zealand, with 2 blank pages available for immigration use.

   The biopage must include the traveller’s full name, nationality, place of birth, passport number, place of issue, issue and expiry dates, and date of birth.

2. Passport-Size Photo

   Applicants must provide a recent, clear photo with a plain background. The face must be fully visible, and hair should not cover any part of it.

What NZ ETA Type and Validity Apply to Malaysian Citizens?

Malaysian citizens are issued different types of NZ ETA based on their purpose of travel. The type and validity are determined by the traveller’s planned activity and travel arrangements.

What Are the Urgent NZ ETA Processing Option for Malaysians?

Malaysian applicants who need to travel urgently can choose the super rush option, which processes the NZ ETA within 24 Hours.

Which NZ ETA Processing Speeds Are Available for Malaysians?

• Normal Processing: 

  Takes between 1-6 Working Days and is recommended for travellers who submit their application ahead of time.

• Rush Processing:

  Processed more quickly, typically finalised within 1- 3 Working Days for those with near-term travel plans.

Which Charges Do Malaysians Pay for the NZ ETA?

The NZ ETA fee for Malaysian citizens is calculated based on application details and processing preferences. To find the exact amount, applicants should visit the NZ ETA Cost page and use the fee calculator provided.

How Can Malaysian Nationals Complete the NZ ETA Application Process?

Malaysian nationals must follow a structured process to apply for the NZ ETA, ensuring all required details and documents are submitted accurately.

1. Fill Application & Upload

   Fill in your personal and passport details as requested in the NZ ETA Application Form, then attach the scanned passport bio page and a recent photo.

2. Verify & Submit

   Under the verify & submit step, review the NZ ETA application to ensure all details are accurate and all required documents have been uploaded before final submission.

3. Pay & Wait For Approval

   Pay the NZ ETA fee using a debit/credit card with sufficient balance. After payment, an email receipt is sent. If approved, the NZ ETA is emailed to the applicant.

What Steps Should Malaysians Take to Track NZ ETA Progress?

To know the exact status, Malaysian citizens can check the NZ ETA Status page. They may follow the required steps to track the progress of their New Zealand ETA application.

Step 1: Provide the Order ID

Please enter the Order ID accurately in the designated field.

Step 2: Enter your Passport Number

Type the passport number without any errors in the space provided.

Step 3: Insert Captcha characters

Enter the captcha code carefully in the given field, click on the check status button, and your application status, approved, in process, delayed, or declined will be shown.

Do Malaysian Travellers Have the Option to Extend Their NZ ETA?

No, Malaysian travellers cannot extend their NZ ETA. Once it expires, they must submit a new application to obtain another NZ ETA.

Conclusion

The NZ ETA enables Malaysian citizens to visit New Zealand for temporary stays. It is granted for eligible purposes and must be reapplied for after expiry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if an applicant makes a mistake in their NZ ETA application? Are biometrics or fingerprints required for the NZ ETA application? Can Malaysian citizens apply for an NZ ETA while already travelling abroad? Can the NZ ETA be saved and finished later if not completed in one sitting?