Passport requirements

Your passport must be valid for at least six(6)months beyond your planned departure from New Zealand.

It should contain at least one(1) blank page for entry and exit stamps.

Your passport must be in good condition. Severely damaged passports may be refused.

Visa requirements

Most travellers need either a visa or an electronic travel authority before travelling to New Zealand. The option depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Travellers who already hold a New Zealand residence or other valid permission usually do not need an electronic travel authority.

Travellers from visa-waiver countries can use an NZeTA. Travellers from non-waiver countries must apply for a Visitor Visa and cannot use an NZeTA.

1. NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority)

Required for eligible visa-waiver nationals visiting New Zealand for tourism, short business trips, or transit. An NZeTA, once approved, is normally valid for multiple visits within a set period.

Travellers should check if their nationality requires an NZeTA before travelling.

Official NZeTA guidance: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/visas/new-zealand-electronic-travel-authority-nzeta/

2. Visitor Visa

Suitable for tourism, visiting family or friends, business activities, and short study courses.

Some nationalities always need this visa for short visits.

3. Student Visa

Required for travellers enrolling in approved education providers for longer study programmes.

4. Other visa categories

Work visas, long stays, skilled employment, and specific professional activities may require different visa types.

Visa and immigration options: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/visas/

Tourism and conservation levy

Many visitors pay for this at the same time as their visa or NZeTA request.

Please note: Permission to travel does not guarantee entry. The New Zealand border officer makes the final decision on arrival.

Health requirements

Health checks may be needed for certain long-stay visas.

There are no routine vaccination rules for short visits. Some visas may require a medical exam or chest X-ray, depending on nationality and length of stay. Travellers should review travel health advice before departure.

Arrival requirements

• You may be asked to show proof of onward travel or a return ticket.

• You may need to show evidence of enough funds to support your stay.

• Accommodation details, such as hotel bookings or host information, may be requested.

• Travel insurance is strongly recommended.

• Some travellers must complete a digital travel declaration before departure.

Customs rules

New Zealand has strict biosecurity controls to protect the environment. All travellers must declare risk items on arrival.

Items you must declare

• Food items, plant products, wooden items, and goods that could carry pests or diseases.

• Sports equipment, camping gear, and outdoor items that may contain soil.

• Cash totalling 10,000 NZD or more, or the equivalent in other currencies.

Prohibited or restricted items

Examples include illegal drugs, weapons without the correct permits, counterfeit goods, and items that may harm the environment or pose safety risks.

Currency regulations

• You must declare 10,000 NZD or more in cash, or the equivalent in other currencies, when entering or leaving New Zealand.

• You may bring any amount of money, but larger sums must be declared.

• It is sensible to keep exchange or withdrawal receipts for reference.

• The currency of New Zealand is the New Zealand dollar(NZD).

Important notes

• Entry rules can change. Travellers should check the most up-to-date requirements for their nationality before travelling.

• Some nationalities may have extra requirements.

• Documents should be in English or accompanied by certified translations.

• Keep photocopies of important documents separate from the originals in case of loss.