NZeTA vs New Zealand Visa

Whether you need an NZeTA or a visa depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit.

An NZeTA is faster and simpler than a visa, but it is only available to eligible travellers.

How Long Can You Stay in New Zealand with an NZeTA?

Most travellers can stay in New Zealand for up to 3 months per visit.

UK passport holders may stay for up to 6 months per visit.

The border officer decides the final length of stay on arrival.

Health and Biosecurity Requirements

New Zealand has strict biosecurity laws to protect its environment and agriculture.

All travellers must:

• Declare food, plant items, animal products, and outdoor equipment

• Answer biosecurity questions on arrival

• Follow instructions from border officials

Failure to declare items can result in fines or entry issues, even if the items are not prohibited.

Proof of Onward Travel and Funds

Travellers entering New Zealand under the visa waiver scheme may be asked to show:

• Proof of onward or return travel

• Evidence of sufficient funds for their stay

These checks are typically conducted at the border, rather than during the NZeTA application process.

International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)

Most travellers applying for an NZeTA must also pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL).

The levy supports tourism infrastructure and conservation projects across New Zealand and is paid at the time of the NZeTA application.

Documents Needed for an NZeTA

In most cases, you only need:

• A valid passport

• A working email address

• A debit or credit card for payment

No physical documents are required at the time of application.

Applying for an NZeTA

You can apply for an NZeTA:

• Online through the official website

• Using the official mobile application

Passport details must be entered exactly as shown on your passport. Errors can delay approval or lead to refusal.

NZeTA Processing Time

Many NZeTA applications are approved within minutes.

Some may take up to 72 hours or longer if additional checks are required.

Travellers are advised to apply well in advance of departure.

Validity of an NZeTA

An NZeTA is usually valid for up to 2 years, or until your passport expires, whichever occurs first.

You may travel to New Zealand multiple times during the validity period, provided each visit meets visa waiver conditions.

Using an NZeTA at the Border

Holding an approved NZeTA does not guarantee entry.

Border officers may assess:

• Purpose of travel

• Intended length of stay

• Travel history

• Compliance with entry conditions

Entry is granted at the discretion of the border officer.

Common Reasons for NZeTA Refusal

An NZeTA may be refused due to:

• Incorrect or incomplete information

• Criminal history

• Previous visa violations

• Health or security concerns

Providing accurate and honest information is essential.

Transiting Through New Zealand

Travellers transiting through New Zealand by air must hold a valid NZeTA if they are from a visa-waiver country, even if they do not leave the airport.

NZeTA and Passport Changes

An NZeTA is linked to the passport used during the application.

If you obtain a new passport for any reason, you must apply for a new NZeTA.

How We Support Your NZeTA Application

We offer independent support to help travellers understand and complete the NZeTA application with confidence.

Our role is to guide you through the process clearly and carefully, helping you avoid common mistakes.

Our support includes:

• Checking whether an NZeTA is required for your nationality and travel plans

• Explaining eligibility rules and required information

• Reviewing application details for accuracy and consistency

• Assisting with the online application process

• Clarifying travel conditions, stay limits, and entry expectations

All applications are assessed and decided solely by Immigration New Zealand. We do not influence outcomes or decisions.

Why Travellers Choose Our Support

Travellers choose us for clear guidance, practical help, and a focus on accuracy.

What sets our service apart:

• Clear explanations without unnecessary complexity

• Support tailored to your specific travel situation

• Experience with electronic travel authorisations and entry rules

• Strong emphasis on compliance and transparency

• Independent assistance focused on your interests

We are not affiliated with the New Zealand Government. We provide independent travel assistance and application preparation support only.

Who we are

This website is operated by Explorers Haven, an independent service offering travel authorisation and visa application assistance. We assist travellers by providing clear guidance to help ensure applications are completed correctly. We are not a law firm or a government body and do not offer legal advice. Our services are delivered independently and are not affiliated with any government authority.

Registered Migration Agent Oversight
Our support services are supervised by an Australian Registered Migration Agent (MARA), ensuring that a qualified and regulated professional provides the guidance.

We are registered with the Australian MARA, and you can verify our registration by clicking here to view our listing on the official MARA register.

Fees and transparency

Our pricing is presented with absolute clarity, allowing you to understand exactly what is included before you proceed. Official New Zealand government charges are clearly separated from our professional service fee for full transparency.

Our service fees: eTA New Zealand including IVL: USD 234

eTA New Zealand without IVL: USD 134 This option is available only where the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy does not apply to your traveller type.

What our service includes: Our fee provides comprehensive, step-by-step document guidance, expert support with completing your application, and dedicated customer assistance throughout the process. It also includes payment of all applicable New Zealand government charges on your behalf.

Government fees included The New Zealand eTA fee is NZD 17 when submitted via the mobile app or NZD 23 when submitted online. Where applicable, the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy of NZD 100 is also included. These charges are set by the New Zealand Government and form part of the total application cost.

No unexpected costs All fees are clearly displayed before payment, allowing you to proceed with confidence.

Final Note

An NZeTA is a straightforward travel authorisation for eligible visitors making short trips to or transiting through New Zealand. Applying early, understanding entry conditions, and providing accurate information are key to a smooth journey.

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