NZ eTA Guide for Australian Permanent Residents

Definition and Scope of the NZ eTA

The NZ eTA is an electronically stored authority linked to a single passport. It remains valid for 2 years from the date of issue or until the associated passport expires, whichever occurs first, and can be used formultiple trips.

Document Requirements

Passport Bio Scan: The passport used for the application must be machine‑readable and valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended departure date from New Zealand.
Digital Applicant Photo: A digital photo of the applicant is required; it must be taken recently and uploaded without any glare or shadows.

Note: You must upload a passport that is not Australian.

Application Procedure For the NZ ETA

Begin your application by visiting the online portal. Select “NZeTA-For Australia Residence Card” as your visa type.
Fill in your travel information and passport details.
Pick your processing speed, and double-check all your information before moving on.
Upload clear scans of the required documents.
Complete your payment and submit the application. You’ll receive a confirmation email with your order ID after submission.

New Zealand eTA Fees

The application fee depends on nationality and the chosen processing speed; faster options cost more.

For a full breakdown of the applicable fees, please refer to the NZ eTA Cost.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Incorrect Passport Number

A small error can invalidate your NZ eTA. Verify the number carefully before submitting.

Expired Australian resident visa

Confirm your Australian resident visa or permit is valid before applying.

Incorrect Photo

Upload a clear digital photo that meets all requirements.

Applying Too Late

Submit your NZ eTA application well before your travel date to prevent delays.

Travel Preparations and Arrival Process

Passengers Completing Arrival Procedures

Before Departure

Check that your NZ eTA is approved and that the passport number on your eTA matches the one on your passport.
Save or print a copy of your NZ eTA approval for your records.
Keep a digital or printed copy of your Australian resident visa if requested.

On Arrival

Show your passport and, if required, fill out the arrival declaration.
If required, answer simple questions about your visit, where you'll stay, and your travel plans.
Declare any food, plants, or animal products during the biosecurity check.
Once the checks are done, you'll be allowed to enter New Zealand.

The arrival process usually takes around 15 minutes if your documents are ready and your declarations are correct.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. The resident visa granted on arrival confers full work rights for the duration of your stay in New Zealand.

You must renew the travel facility online with the Australian Department of Home Affairs before re‑entering Australia. Failure to do so may result in re‑entry refusal.

Yes. Each traveller must hold an individual NZ eTA linked to the passport they will use for travel.

The Super Rush service targets approval within 1 Hour. While many approvals are issued sooner, unforeseen verification checks can delay processing, so applying at least 1 - 2 Days before departure is advisable.

Content Disclaimer: As the information was updated in May 2026, we advise you to verify with the relevant offices, embassies, and airlines to ensure your travel plans are up to date

NZ eTA for Australian Permanent Residence Card Holders