If you’re from a visa-waiver country, you need an NZeTA — costing NZD $17 via the mobile app or $23 online, plus the NZD $100 visitor levy, valid for 2 years. Everyone else must apply for a New Zealand Visitor Visa, usually valid up to 9 months and processed in about 25–30 working days. Your nationality, trip purpose, and length of stay decide which option applies to you.
If you’re unsure how to file, see our comparison of New Zealand visa applications online vs on paper.
New Zealand Visitor Visa:
Citizens of non-visa-waiver nations may travel and remain in New Zealand for tourism, family visits, short-term study, or business meetings with a New Zealand Visitor Visa, a formal visa issued by Immigration New Zealand.
Who Needs It:
Citizens of countries not on New Zealand’s visa waiver list.
Validity Period:
Typically valid for up to 9 months.
Multiple Entries:
Often allows multiple entries, depending on the specific visa conditions.
Application Requirements:
- Valid passport
- Clear purpose of visit
- Proof of funds to support your stay
- Return travel ticket or proof of onward travel
- Medical checks, if required
Processing Time:
Usually processed within 25–30 working days, but times may vary.
Apply Online:
Read Also: New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa
New Zealand NZeTA, New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority:
A visa is not what the NZeTA is. Before entering New Zealand, citizens of countries that do not require a visa and transit travelers from specific nations must complete this electronic permit.
Key Features of the NZeTA:
- Who needs it:
- citizens of nations that do not require a visa.
- passengers on cruise ships.
- travelers on transit via Auckland International Airport.
- Validity:
- 2 years for most travelers.
- 5 years for airline crew.
- Processing Time:
- Typically takes 10 minutes to 72 hours.
- Cost:
- Applying with the mobile app costs NZD $17.
- Applying online via the website costs NZD $23.
- The International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) costs an extra NZD $35.
- No physical document:
- Your passport is electronically connected to the NZeTA.
- You don’t get a label or printed copy.
- How to apply:
- Apply online at the official immigration website:
https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/visas/visa/nzeta
- Apply online at the official immigration website:
How Do You Know Which One You Need?
Frequent travellers should also read about New Zealand multiple-entry visas and visa-free travel.
Use these three easy steps to find out the travel authorization you require for New Zealand:
- Check if your country is on the visa-waiver list
Visit this link to see the full list of visa-waiver countries:
Visa-waiver countries for New Zealand - If your country is on the visa-waiver list
- Instead of a visiting visa, you will require a NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority).
- Unless you intend to stay in New Zealand for a longer period of time or for reasons other than tourism or business, you must have the NZeTA.
- If your country is not on the visa-waiver list
- Prior to your trip to New Zealand, you must apply for a visitor visa.
Special Cases to Watch Out For:
When assessing whether you require a NZeTA, bear in mind the following unique cases:
- Cruise Passengers:
- Most cruise passengers visiting New Zealand, regardless of country, will require a NZeTA.
- Transit through Auckland International Airport:
- Some tourists will still need a NZeTA to enter New Zealand, even if they are only passing via Auckland International Airport for a few hours.
- Work, Study, or Residency:
- Travel for employment, education, or residency is not covered by the NZeTA or Visitor Visa.
- In these situations, you must apply for the right kind of visa depending on why you plan to be there (e.g., work visa, student visa, etc.).
Frequently Asked Questions:
New Zealand NZeTA vs Visitor Visa: Cost Comparison
Planning to work instead? Check the New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).
Which do I need — a New Zealand Visitor Visa or an NZeTA?
If your country is on New Zealand’s visa-waiver list and you’re travelling for tourism or short business visits, you need an NZeTA instead of a visa. If your country is not on the list, or you’re staying longer or visiting for other purposes, you must apply for a Visitor Visa before travelling.
How much does the NZeTA cost in 2026?
The NZeTA itself costs NZD $17 when you apply through the official mobile app or NZD $23 through the website. You also pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy of NZD $100 per person at the same time, so the total is NZD $117 by app or NZD $123 online.
How long are the NZeTA and Visitor Visa valid?
The NZeTA is valid for 2 years for most travellers (5 years for airline crew) and covers multiple short visits linked electronically to your passport. A New Zealand Visitor Visa is typically valid for up to 9 months, with multiple entries possible depending on the conditions set when it’s granted.
Can I work or study in New Zealand on a Visitor Visa or NZeTA?
No — the NZeTA covers tourism, family visits, and short business meetings only, and the Visitor Visa allows tourism, family visits, short-term study, or business meetings. Neither permits paid work. If you plan to work in New Zealand, you’ll need a proper work visa such as the Accredited Employer Work Visa.
For a short holiday, see the New Zealand Summer Visitor Visa option.
Avoid trouble at the border — learn the rules for working in New Zealand on a tourist or visit visa.
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