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What is ETA New Zealand?
ETA for New Zealand (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) is an electronic travel authorization for citizens of visa-exempt countries.
NZeTA was launched in August 2019 and although it is not a visa, it is a mandatory entry from October 2019.Eligible travelers can easily get their NZeTA to visit the country for tourism, business purposes, or for transit to another country.
NZeTA visa waiver is mandatory for the following passengers entering New Zealand:
- All 60 visa waivers are for citizens of the country
- Cruise travelers of all nationalities
- Transit travelers to other countries (required for 191 countries)
- eTA New Zealand eligible countries and eligible transit passengers can easily get an eTA for New Zealand by filling out a simple online application form.
Transit NZeTA is a mandatory stopover at NZ for transit passengers who do not have a New Zealand visa.
There is no need to visit an embassy or consulate and the New Zealand ETA online application form only takes a few minutes to complete. This means that all eligible travelers who wish to travel to New Zealand for a short-term stay for tourism or business purposes, or to transit through Auckland International Airport, must apply for an ETA visa waiver in New Zealand before departure.
Most applications are processed within 1 to 2 business days. Once approved, eTA New Zealand (NZeTA) is sent electronically to the applicant via the email address that the user provides in their application.
Valid for 2 years from the moment New Zealand ETA is approved and can be used for multiple visits.
ETA is required for New Zealand
From 1 October 2019, all 60 visa waiver country passport holders (up to 90 days without a visa can travel to New Zealand) must apply for an NZeTA for travel before traveling to the country.
UK citizens can enter for up to 6 months and Australians hold residency status upon arrival.
Even passengers will need to get an NZeTA for transit on their way to a third country destination via New Zealand.
eTA New Zealand – For transit or tourism: It is valid for a total of 2 years from the date of issue.
Passport holders of the 60 visa-exempt countries listed below require an ETA for New Zealand. Requirements apply to children traveling to New Zealand.
How do I apply for a New Zealand visa from the United States?
There is an online application for a New Zealand visa for US citizens which can be completed in less than five (5) minutes. Applicants must enter personal details, their contact details, such as email and address, and information on their passport page. The applicant must be in good health and not have a criminal history. You can find more information in the New Zealand ETA Application Form Guide.
After citizens of the United States pay the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) fee, their eTA application process begins. NZ eTA is delivered via email to citizens of the United States. If additional documentation is required, the applicant will be contacted prior to the approval of the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) for U.S. citizens.
