Most visitors to New Zealand will now need to apply for the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before they travel to the country, or even pass through in transit.
This new system is designed to make processing your arrival into the country quicker for you and easier for border security.
It takes about 10 minutes to apply online, but authorities suggest that you make your request at least 72 hours before you need to travel. Apply at www.immigration.govt.nz/nzeta or via the free Immigration New Zealand mobile app. On the website, the application costs NZ$12 plus an additional International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZ$35 per person. The application fee on the app is only NZ$9, but the IVL remains the same.
NZeTA app — Apple Store
NZeTA android app — Google Play
Once issued, the NZeTA will be valid for multiple visits across a maximum period of two years.
It is estimated that the IVL will raise up to NZ$450 million across the first five years to be used to expand NZ’s tourism infrastructure and also help to protect the country’s natural environment.
Full details about applying can be found on the New Zealand Immigration website.
Check the list found here of the 60 visa-waiver countries. Visitors from these countries DO need to apply for the NZeTA.
Cruise ship passengers from all countries will need to apply for an NZeTA.
New Zealand citizens, Australian citizens and those holding a valid visa for New Zealand, including a Permanent Resident visa, do not need to apply.
New Zealand is one of my favorite places to visit. I spent 18 days there riding 7000km on both islands and can’t wait for an opportunity to take Vivi there.
Check out this New Zealand motorcycle adventure on 90 Mile Beach.
Oh my gosh I LITERALLY DIDN’T KNOW THIS! And I’ll go to New Zealand in December! I was there last year without these requirements and I didn’t bother to check as I thought I know that I don’t need any visa or a waiver! Directly informed my whole family who is traveling as well and will share this across all my social media channels! THANKS A LOT – you possibly saved me a lot of hassle!