Māori haka performances shake the earth, glaciers melt into rainforests, and even sheep outnumber humans five to one—New Zealand doesn't take half measures. For UK tourists, the NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) streamlines the process, allowing them to focus on more important things, such as choosing which stunning location to visit first.
But what exactly is the NZ ETA for UK travellers? How do you apply? And what should you know before you set off? This guide answers all your questions, ensuring your journey is as smooth as the serene waters of Lake Tekapo.
What is the NZ ETA for the UK?
The New Zealand ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) is a digital entry requirement for visa-waiver travellers, including UK citizens, who previously could visit without any travel documents. Introduced for security and border efficiency, it acts as a pre-screened travel pass—approved online before departure.
Types of NZ ETA for the UK
A brief explanation of the various New Zealand ETA types is provided below. Visit the NZ ETA Types webpage for more details.
Transit ETA: Required for travellers transiting through an NZ airport without leaving the airport.
UK Citizens Holding Australian PR: Must apply for an ETA before travel (same conditions as other visa-waiver nationals).
Cruise Passengers: Mandatory for all nationalities; grants a 28-day visitor visa (or until cruise departure).
Tourist/Business ETA: Allows short stays for tourism, family visits, or business (no work permitted).
Validity, Stay Duration and Entry Option of NZ ETA
The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) offers:
ETA Type
Number Of Entries
Maximum Stay
Validity
Transit ETA
Multiple
Less than 24 hours
2 years
UK Citizens Holding Australian PR
Multiple
6 Months
2 years
ETA For General Visit (Tourist and Business Visit)
Multiple
6 months
2 years
NZ ETA is ideal for multiple short trips or extended exploration within its validity window.
(Note: Conditions apply based on passport validity and border officer discretion upon arrival.)
New Zealand ETA (NZeTA) Extension Policy
The NZeTA itself cannot be extended, as it is valid for 2 years and allows stays of up to 6 months per visit. However:
If you wish to stay longer than six months, you must apply for a different visa (e.g., aVisitor Visa) before your initial stay expires.
If your NZeTA expires, you must reapply for a new one if you plan another trip.
Documents Required for New Zealand ETA
To apply for your NZeTA, you will need:
Passport Requirements: Please submit a clear scan of the bio page of your UK passport, which must be valid for at least 3 months after departure from New Zealand. The passport bio page must display the full name, passport number, birth date, issue and expiration dates, nationality, and the issuing authority. Ensure high-quality, glare-free copy.
Photo Requirements: Provide a recent (within 6 months) passport photo:
Plain light background
Neutral expression, eyes open
Face covering 70-80% of the frame
No glasses (unless medical/religious)
High-res JPEG, no shadows/red-eye
Good Character: You have to be a decent person. This requirement simply means that there are no significant criminal convictions, no history of deportation from any nation, and no engagement in any activities that may endanger national security. The NZeTA form will ask you several character-related questions, including those about prior immigration or criminal offences. You will satisfy this condition by honestly responding that you don't have any.
New Zealand ETA Processing Time
Choose the processing speed that best suits your travel needs:
Standard Processing (Best for Early Planners)
Time: 1-6 Working Days
Fee: Base application fee only
Rush Processing (Best for those needing approval within a week)
Time:1- 3 Working Days
Fee: Small additional charge
Super Rush Processing (Need ETA Urgently!)
Time: Approved within 24 Hours
Fee: Premium express fee
Note: All processing times begin once the application is complete and payment is confirmed.
New Zealand ETA Fee
Your total ETA fee is not fixed—it changes based on:
ETA type (tourist, business, transit, etc.)
Processing speed (standard, rush, or super rush)
Exchange rates (fees are in NZD, so currency swings matter)
Want Exact Fee Information?
Check the NZ ETA Fee Tool—your final cost updates in real time!
New Zealand ETA Application Process
For UK passport holders, getting your New Zealand ETA is a straightforward online process—no embassy visits required.
Complete the Online Application
Fill in your personal details, passport information and travel plans
Answer the required security questions
Upload necessary documents (passport scan & photo as specified)
Carefully review all entered information before submission.
You will receive an immediate confirmation email with a reference number. Submission is complete; no further action is needed unless additional documents are requested.
Receive Your Approved ETA
You will receive an official approval email once your application is processed.
The approved ETA is automatically linked to your passport number (no physical sticker or stamp).
Simply travel with the passport used in your application – border officers can access your ETA digitally.
Ensure you travel with the exact passport used in the application.
New Zealand ETA Status Check
The New Zealand Status Check Tool allows you to check your New Zealand ETA status; all we need is your order ID and passport number. Contact NewZealandETACustomerSupport if you are experiencing issues with receiving a status check.
Tips for Filling Out Your New Zealand ETA Application
Some tips to follow are as follows:
Verify Your Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the criteria for applying for a New Zealand ETA before starting the application process.
Use Accurate Information: Enter your details precisely as they appear in your passport to avoid discrepancies.
Complete All Required Sections: Ensure every mandatory field is filled in, including personal, passport, and travel details.
Submit Clear Documents: Attach a high-quality, recent passport-size photograph, and ensure your passport information is up to date.
Double-Check Details: Review your application for accuracy before submitting, particularly your contact and travel information.
Provide Correct Payment: Ensure that you make the correct payment for the ETA processing fee using an eligible payment method.
Allow Processing Time: After submission, allow adequate time for the processing and approval of your application.
Save Your Application Number: Record your application reference number for future reference or tracking.
Smooth Travels to New Zealand: A Concluding Note
And just like that, you are officially ready to swap rainy London for New Zealand’s glacier-carved fjords, Māori cultural feasts, and hobbit-worthy landscapes! Your NZ ETA isn’t just a formality; it’s the golden ticket to adventures where every road trip feels like a Lord of the Rings deleted scene. Just don’t blame us if you start Googling “how to move here permanently” after your first sunset over Lake Tekapo.
Got questions? We’ve Got Answers!
No. Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended departure date from New Zealand. If your passport expires before submitting your application, renew it first.
Yes. Every UK passport holder, including infants, requires their own NZeTA. Parents or guardians must apply on behalf of their child.
No. The NZeTA only permits tourism, business meetings, or short visits. For paid work, you’ll need a work visa.
Yes. Your NZeTA covers entry to all of New Zealand, including both islands and offshore territories, such as the Chatham Islands.
While not required, it is strongly recommended. New Zealand’s healthcare is not free for tourists, and emergencies (e.g., injuries from adventure sports) can be costly.
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