Travellers Arriving from Overseas (General Requirements)

If you are from a Visa-Waiver Country

You generally do not need to apply for a Visitor Visa before travel. Instead, you must obtain an NZeTA before boarding your flight (unless exempt). An NZeTA is normally valid for multiple visits over 2 years.

Required Documents

Before travel:

• Valid passport

• Passport-style photo

• Approved NZeTA

• Return or onward ticket

• Evidence of sufficient funds for your stay

• New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) before arrival

Passport Validity

Your passport should be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date from New Zealand.

Evidence Immigration Officers May Request

• Accommodation details

• Return/onward travel booking

• Bank statements or other proof of funds

• Travel itinerary

Evidence of genuine visitor intentions

If You Need a Visitor Visa

Citizens of countries that are not visa-waiver countries must generally apply for a Visitor Visa before travel. Visitor Visas typically allow stays of up to 6 or 9 months depending on circumstances.

Typical Visitor Visa Documents

• Passport

• Recent photograph

• Travel itinerary

• Proof of funds

• Return/onward travel plans

• Evidence of employment, business, family, or other ties to home country

• Invitation letter (if visiting friends/family)

• Additional supporting documents if requested by Immigration New Zealand

Visitor Visa Application

Apply for a Visitor Visa

Travellers Coming from Australia

Requirements differ depending on whether you are:

• An Australian citizen

• An Australian permanent resident

• A non-Australian resident in Australia

Australian Citizens

If travelling on an Australian passport:

You do NOT need:

• NZeTA

• Visitor Visa

You DO need:

• Valid Australian passport

• New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD)

• To satisfy standard health, character, and entry requirements at the border

Australian Permanent Residents

Australian permanent residents generally:

• Need an NZeTA before travel

• Do not need a Visitor Visa for short visits

• Can receive an Australian Resident Visa on arrival if entry requirements are met

Documents Required

• Passport

• Australian permanent resident visa evidence

• NZeTA approval

• NZTD declaration

• Proof of onward travel if requested

• Evidence of sufficient funds if requested

Non-Australian Citizens Living in Australia

Your requirements depend on your nationality.

Some travellers can use an NZeTA

New Zealand allows certain travellers from Australia (including some Chinese and Pacific Islands Forum passport holders holding eligible Australian visas) to travel using an NZeTA rather than applying for a Visitor Visa.

Others will still need a Visitor Visa

If your nationality is not eligible for visa-waiver travel, you must apply for a Visitor Visa before departure.

New Zealand Traveller Declaration (Required for Most Arrivals)‍ ‍

Everyone entering New Zealand must complete the NZTD, which includes customs, immigration, and biosecurity information. For air travellers, it can generally be submitted within 24 hours before the journey begins.

Official declaration portal:

New Zealand Traveller Declaration Portal

Recommended Travel Checklist

Before boarding your flight, ensure you have:

✅ Passport
✅ NZeTA (if required)
✅ Visitor Visa (if required)
✅ Return or onward ticket
✅ Proof of accommodation
✅ Proof of funds
✅ NZ Traveller Declaration submitted
✅ Copies of supporting documents and travel insurance