If you’re planning to travel to New Zealand in 2025, you may need a New Zealand ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) before boarding your flight. This quick online travel document is required for most visitors from visa-waiver countries and for cruise ship passengers.
In this guide, you’ll learn about the New Zealand ETA requirements, fees, processing time, validity, and step-by-step application process.
What is the New Zealand ETA?
The New Zealand ETA (NZeTA) is a digital entry requirement introduced in 2019 for travelers from visa-waiver countries. It is electronically linked to your passport and is valid for multiple short stays in New Zealand.
With a valid NZeTA, you can:
- Visit New Zealand for tourism, business, or transit.
- Stay up to 90 days per visit (or 6 months for UK citizens).
- Travel multiple times during its validity period.
Who Needs a New Zealand ETA
You need an NZeTA if you are:
- From a visa-waiver country (e.g., Singapore, Malaysia, UK, USA, Japan, most EU countries).
- A transit passenger passing through Auckland International Airport.
- A cruise ship passenger arriving in New Zealand.
You do not need an NZeTA if you are:
- A New Zealand or Australian citizen.
- Holding a valid New Zealand visa.
New Zealand ETA Quick Guide 2025
Category | Details |
|---|---|
Requirements | - Valid passport (at least 3 months beyond stay) - Email address for confirmation - Credit/debit card for fee & IVL (NZD $35) - Application via official website or mobile app |
Processing Time | - Most approved within 10 minutes – 72 hours - Apply at least 72 hours before departure to avoid delays |
Validity | - Valid for 2 years from approval - Allows multiple visits - Stay up to 90 days per visit (6 months for UK citizens) |
Common Mistakes to Avoid | - Entering wrong passport details - Forgetting to pay the IVL tourism levy - Waiting until the last minute to apply - Using unofficial websites with extra charges |
How to Apply for a New Zealand ETA
Steps 1: Visit the official New Zealand Immigration website or download the NZeTA mobile app
Steps 2: Fill in your personal and passport details
Steps 3: Pay the fee and pay the IVL
Steps 4: Submit your application, wait for approval and receive confirmation by email, your NZeTA will be electronically linked to your passport
New Zealand ETA vs. Visitor Visa
Feature | NZeTA | Visitor Visa |
|---|---|---|
Who Needs It | Visa-waiver travelers, cruise passengers, transit passengers | Travelers from non–visa-waiver countries |
Validity | 2 years | Usually 6–12 months (depends on visa type) |
Stay Duration | Up to 90 days (6 months for UK) | As granted by visa |
Processing Time | Minutes to 72 hours | Weeks to months |
Fee | NZD $17–$23 + IVL $35 | From NZD $165+ |
Final Tips for a Smooth Trip
Apply as soon as you book your flight to avoid last-minute issues
While most applications are processed within minutes, some can take up to 72 hours or longer if extra checks are required.
By applying early, you give yourself plenty of time to correct any mistakes, provide additional documents if requested, and ensure your New Zealand ETA application is approved before you reach the airport.
Leaving it to the last minute could mean denied boarding or costly changes to your travel plans.
Double-check your passport details before submitting
Even a small typo in your name, passport number, or expiry date can cause problems at check-in and may result in your airline refusing to let you board.
Since the NZeTA is electronically linked to your passport, the details must match exactly. Before hitting “submit,” take a moment to carefully review all the information you’ve entered.
Correcting mistakes after submission can be time-consuming and may require a new application, so it’s always better to get it right the first time.
Use only the official Immigration NZ website or app to save on fees
Many third-party websites claim to offer NZeTA services but often charge much higher fees than the official cost (NZD $17 via the app or NZD $23 online, plus the NZD $35 IVL levy).
These sites don’t speed up the process or provide any extra benefits, and in some cases, they may even delay your application if incorrect information is submitted on your behalf.
By applying directly through the official government platform, you ensure your application is secure, your payment is safe, and you avoid paying unnecessary extra charges.
Keep a copy of your NZeTA approval email for reference
Although your NZeTA is electronically linked to your passport, having a digital or printed copy of the approval email can be very useful.
Airlines and immigration officers may ask to see proof of your authorization during check-in or upon arrival in New Zealand. Keeping it handy also gives you peace of mind in case there are any system errors or delays in verifying your details.
Store a screenshot on your phone and, if possible, print a copy to carry with your travel documents.
FAQ: New Zealand ETA
How long is the NZeTA valid?
Your NZeTA is valid for 2 years from the date of approval and can be used for multiple entries.Do I need an NZeTA if I’m just transiting?
Yes. Even if you’re only transiting through Auckland International Airport, you must have an NZeTA unless you’re from a country that requires a full visa.Can I extend my stay with an NZeTA?
No. The NZeTA allows visits of up to 90 days per entry (or 6 months for UK citizens). To stay longer, you must apply for a different visa.