Check New Zealand Entry requirements

Passport requirements

• Your passport should be valid for at least six(6) months beyond your intended departure from New Zealand.

• It must have at least one(1) blank page for entry and exit stamps.

• Your passport must be in good condition. Passports with serious damage may be refused.

Visa requirements

Most visitors require either a visa or an Electronic Travel Authority before travelling to New Zealand. The right option depends on your nationality and the purpose of your travel. Travellers who already hold a New Zealand residence or another valid permission usually do not need an NZeTA.

Travellers from visa-waiver countries can request an NZeTA, while those from non-waiver countries must apply for a Visitor Visa instead.

1. NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority)

This is required for eligible visa-waiver nationals visiting New Zealand for tourism, short business trips, or transit. Once approved, an NZeTA typically allows multiple visits within a set period.

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

2. Visitor Visa

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

Some nationalities always require this visa for short stays.

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

Tourism and conservation levy

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

Please note: Permission to travel does not guarantee entry. The border officer will make the final decision upon arrival in New Zealand.

Health requirements

Health checks may be required for some long-stay visas.

There are no standard vaccination rules for short visits. Certain visas may require a medical exam or chest X-ray, depending on nationality and duration of stay. Travellers should review health advice before they depart.

Arrival requirements

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

• You may need to provide evidence that you have enough funds for 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 they fly.

Customs rules

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

Items you must declare

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

• Sports gear, camping equipment, 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 required permits, counterfeit goods, and items that may damage 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 can bring any amount of money, but larger sums must be declared.

• It is helpful to keep currency exchange or withdrawal receipts.

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

Important notes

• Entry rules can change. Travellers should check the latest requirements for their nationality before travelling.

• Some nationalities may face additional steps.

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

• Keep photocopies of important documents separate from your originals in case they are lost.