Before you set off to explore New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes—from the magical fjords of Milford Sound to the vibrant streets of Auckland—you will need a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZ eTA). This quick and easy digital permit is a must for short stays, ensuring hassle-free entry so you can dive straight into your Kiwi adventure.
In this guide, we will break down everything you need to know—how to apply for a New Zealand ETA in minutes, photo specs to avoid delays, fees, and even what to do if you have a criminal record. Get ready to unlock New Zealand with confidence—let’s get started!
What is NZ eTA?
The New Zealand eTA (Electronic Travel Authority) is an online travel authorisation designed for visa-exempt visitors, including Canadians. It simplifies the entry process by allowing pre-screening before arrival.
Key Features of NZ eTA
Digital Approval: No physical visa sticker; linked electronically to your passport.
Multiple Entries: Valid for two years (or until passport expiry).
Short-Term Stays: Permits stays of up to three months per visit.
Tourism & Transit: Covers holidays, business trips, and short stopovers.
Improve Entry Efficiency: Reduces processing time at airports.
Support Sustainable Tourism: Ensures visitors meet entry requirements before arrival.
This system benefits travellers and immigration authorities by streamlining the process while maintaining security.
Travelling to New Zealand with a Criminal Record: eTA Implications
New Zealand requires all visitors to be of good character. If you have a criminal record, it may impact your eTA application.
What You Need to Know
Minor offences (e.g., traffic violations) usually don’t cause issues.
Serious Convictions (e.g., prison sentences of 12+ months) may require a special visa instead of an eTA.
Full Disclosure is Crucial – Lying on your application can lead to entry refusal or deportation.
If you are unsure whether your record affects eligibility, consult the New Zealand ETA Customer Support before applying.
What Do Canadians Need for an NZ eTA?
To apply for the NZ eTA, you must have:
A Valid Canadian Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in New Zealand. This ensures that you have a valid travel document throughout your visit. Additionally, your passport should be in good condition with no significant damage, as torn or defaced passports may lead to entry refusal.
A Recent Passport-Sized Photo: Must meet strict NZ eTA photo standards (see next section).
A Credit or Debit Card: You will need a valid credit or debit card to pay the eTA processing fee, which is required to complete your application. Make sure your card has sufficient funds and is enabled for international transactions to avoid payment issues during the submission process.
New Zealand eTA Photo Requirements
All Canadian applicants must comply with official guidelines to avoid delays. Below is a detailed breakdown:
Requirement
Specification
Dimensions
35mm x 45mm (standard passport size)
Background
Plain white or light grey (no shadows or patterns)
Facial Expression
Neutral, eyes open, mouth closed (no smiling)
Head Position
Face directly at the camera, centred
Lighting
Evenly lit, no glare or shadows
Glasses & Headwear
Only permitted for medical/religious reasons (must not obscure face)
From Tourism to Transit: What Your NZ eTA Covers
The Transit NZ eTA: For Passengers on the Move
Who needs it? Travellers connecting through New Zealand to another destination, even if they never leave the airport.
Why get it? Two-year validity (with multiple entries) means no reapplying for future layovers.
Stay Duration: Less than 24 hours.
Transiting is mandatory, even if you are just grabbing a coffee between flights.
Pro tip: Planning to step outside the airport? You’ll need a General Visitor NZ eTA instead.
The NZ eTA for Australian Permanent Residents
Who needs it? Canadian citizens who call Australia home as permanent residents but aren’t Aussie citizens.
Same benefits as other NZ eTAs: Two years, multiple entries, and up to 90 days per stay.
Good to know: Australian citizens don’t need an NZ eTA—but permanent residents do!
The Cruise Ship NZ eTA: Your Ticket to Kiwi Ports
Who needs it? Anyone arriving in New Zealand by cruise ship, whether you’re hopping off for a few hours or joining a shore excursion.
Why get it? It covers every port stop on your itinerary.
2-year validity means future cruises are already sorted.
Stay duration is up to 28 days (visitor visa).
The General Visitor NZ eTA: For Tourists & Business Travellers
Who needs it? Most travellers come here for sightseeing, visiting families, or short business trips (like meetings or conferences).
Why get it?
Stay up to 3 months
Multiple entries over two years—perfect for repeat visits!
Remember: No working or long-term studying allowed—just pure Kiwi exploration.
Validity and Stay Duration of NZ eTA
As discussed above
Validity Period: 2 years (or until passport expiry, whichever comes first).
Maximum Stay Per Visit: 90 days (3 months).
Entries Allowed: Multiple (no limit within validity period).
NZ eTA Fee Structure
The cost of an NZ eTA depends on many factors, including:
Processing Time (Standard vs. Rush options).
Currency Exchange Rates (Fees are in NZD).
For the most up-to-date fee, visit the New Zealand ETA Fee Page.
The NZ eTA Application Process: Quick, Simple, Stress-Free!
The New Zealand eTA application form is designed to be fast and hassle-free, with most travellers completing the entire process in less than 20 minutes. Here's precisely what to expect at each step:
Fill Out the Online Form – Your Details Matter
This straightforward digital form asks for:
Basic personal information (name, date of birth, nationality).
Your passport details (must be valid for 3+ months after your visit).
Planned travel dates and itinerary.
Some simple security/eligibility questions.
Helpful hints:
Have your passport handy —you will need to enter the number and issue/expiry dates.
Double-check all entries; small typos can cause processing delays.
The system saves your progress if you need to pause.
Secure Payment – Fast & Protected
Your New Zealand eTA application is only complete once payment is successfully processed. Simply submitting the form without payment means your application remains unfinished and will not be reviewed.
To ensure approval:
Complete the payment immediately after submission.
Check for confirmation—you will receive an email once payment is received.
No payment = No eTA. Make sure to finalise your application.
Approval Email —You're Almost There!
After submission and fee payment:
Standard processing takes up to 1-6 Working Days
(but often faster).
Approval comes via email; check your spam folder just in case.
No printing needed: Your NW eTA is electronically linked to your passport.
Payment Methods for NZ eTA
Accepted payment options include:
Visa, Mastercard, American Express.
Other major credit/debit cards.
Alternative methods (if available at the time of application).
Urgent NZ eTA Application – Super Rush Processing 24 Hours
Super Rush Processing: Approval in under 24 Hours
, ideal for last-minute travel plans.
Standard Processing: Takes 1-6 Working Days
for approval.
Additional Fee: Applies for Super Rush Processing service.
Tracking Your NZ eTA Status
Are you curious about the status of your New Zealand eTA (Electronic Travel Authority)? You can easily track its status online using the New Zealand ETA Status Check Tool. Here is everything you need to know to monitor your application in real time! To track your eTA, you’ll need:
Application Reference/Order ID (provided after submission).
Passport Number (must match the one used in your application).
What If You Want to Stay Longer Than 3 Months in New Zealand?
The eTA only permits short stays (up to 3 months). For longer visits, consider:
Visitor Visa (extends stay up to 9 months).
Work Visa (if employed by an NZ company).
Student Visa (for enrolled studies).
Final Thoughts: Your Gateway to Aotearoa Awaits!
Securing your New Zealand eTA as a Canadian traveller is quick, easy, and the final step before embarking on an unforgettable journey to Aotearoa—the Land of the Long White Clouds.
With your eTA approved, you are all set to:
🌄 Wander through majestic fjords in Milford Sound.
🏙️ Experience the urban charm of Auckland and Wellington.
🌋 Discover geothermal wonders in Rotorua.
🍷 Savour world-class wines in Marlborough’s vineyards.
🌿 Immerse yourself in Māori culture – from haka performances to traditional hangi feasts.
Your Kiwi adventure starts now. Pack your bags, grab your passport (with eTA attached), and get ready to explore one of the most stunning, diverse, and welcoming countries on Earth.
Still Have Questions?
No, the eTA must be approved before boarding your flight. Airlines will check for it during check-in.
No, border officers have final authority—ensure you meet all entry requirements.
No, all ages need one, including infants (parents must apply on their behalf).
Only casual volunteering (like at a hostel) is permitted. Formal volunteer work may require a work visa.
No grace period exists - even one day overstay is considered a visa violation with potential penalties.
No set limit, but frequent back-to-back visits may raise questions at border control about your intentions.
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