NZeTA Application FAQ

NZeTA stands for New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority. It is not a visa; it is an electronic travel authorization that allows eligible travelers to come to New Zealand without applying for a visa first.

NZeTA visa

Table of contents

In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about the NZeTA before your trip. You will learn who needs to apply, how the application process works step by step, and what documents are required. Special attention is given to the photo requirements for NZeTA applications.

NZeTA visa policy

Some visitors to New Zealand, as well as certain transit passengers, must obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) instead of a visa. It is required for travelers from visa waiver countries and territories, and also for specific transit passengers passing through Auckland International Airport.

The NZeTA is valid for 2 years and allows multiple entries during this period. For visa waiver visitors, the typical stay is up to 3 months per visit. UK passport holders with the right to reside permanently in the United Kingdom may stay for up to 6 months per visit.

NZeTA eligible countries

Nationals of visa waiver countries and territories may be able to travel to New Zealand with an NZeTA instead of a visa, subject to passport and residency conditions:

Additionally, if you are transiting through Auckland International Airport and you hold a passport from a transit visa waiver country or territory, you must apply for an NZeTA before travel.

NZeTA application process

Before applying, check whether you need an NZeTA or a visitor visa. You can submit your NZeTA request through the official NZeTA website or via the official mobile app. Make sure to use the same passport you will travel with, and ensure it is valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date from New Zealand.

  1. Confirm whether you need an NZeTA or a visitor visa before starting your application.
  2. Apply online via the official NZeTA website or through the free NZeTA mobile app.
  3. Enter your passport details, personal information, and travel details exactly as they appear in your passport.
  4. Upload or scan your passport information and, if required, provide a facial photo using the app or website.
  5. Pay the NZeTA fee online. If applicable, the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) is paid at the same time.
  6. Wait for processing. Official guidance recommends allowing up to 72 hours.
  7. Receive your NZeTA approval electronically; no physical sticker or stamp is placed in your passport.

NZeTA photo requirements

The photo requirements for an NZeTA are aligned with those for New Zealand visa applications submitted online:

Here is an example:

NZeTA photo

Get an NZeTA visa photo online!

The NZeTA makes travel and transit through New Zealand much easier for eligible travelers. However, your application must fully meet all requirements to be approved without delays or issues at the border.

One of the key elements is a compliant photo. With Visafoto, you can quickly get a photo that meets all official requirements without visiting a professional studio. The service automatically adjusts background, lighting, and framing, helping you achieve a result that meets government standards. After payment, the photo is enhanced within seconds to improve quality, resolution, and overall appearance, including fixing background and extending clothing if needed.

Simply take a photo of yourself following the basic guidelines and upload it to the tool below. You do not need to worry about format, background, size, or proportions — everything will be adjusted automatically.

Take an image with a smartphone or camera against any background, upload it here, and instantly get a professional photo for your visa, passport, or ID.

Take an image with a smartphone against any background, upload it here and instantly get a professional photo for your visa, passport or ID. No registration required. You will see results in seconds.
Additional options
Upload photo & Continue

Source

Source photo example that you need to take in order to make a passport or visa photo at visafoto.com

Result

Result example: a correct visa or passport photo that you will receive

First, take a photo of yours under daylight like this one:

Оriginal photo

You will have a digital picture of the right dimensions and background which you can use for electronic submission.

Here is the example:

Example photo for NZeTA visa

There is an error when I try to attach a photo to my NZeTA application. What to do?

We have prepared a separate guideline for this case.

Do I need NZeTA if I have a New Zealand visa?

No. If you already hold a valid New Zealand visa, you do not need an NZeTA before traveling. The NZeTA is mainly required for eligible visa waiver travelers and certain transit passengers. If you are unsure which document applies to your situation, use Immigration New Zealand’s online visa and NZeTA checker before your trip.

How to check my NZeTA application status?

Here are a few common options to check if your NZeTA is ready:

Do I need to print out NZeTA?

No. NZeTA is electronically linked to your passport, allowing border officials to verify it upon arrival. However, it is advisable to keep your approval confirmation accessible on your phone or in your email while traveling.

Do I need NZeTA for transit?

If you are transiting through New Zealand, you may need either a transit visa or an NZeTA, depending on your nationality and travel details. Travelers from transit visa waiver countries or territories are generally required to obtain an NZeTA instead of a transit visa before departure.

This requirement most commonly applies to transit through Auckland International Airport. Additional conditions may depend on your passport, onward travel arrangements, and whether you remain in the international transit area (airside).

How long does it take to get NZeTA?

Processing is often quick, but Immigration New Zealand recommends allowing up to 72 hours for an NZeTA application to be processed. In many cases, approval may be granted sooner, so it is best to apply well in advance of your departure date.

NZeTA request cost

The NZeTA costs NZD 17 when applying through the mobile app or NZD 23 when applying via the website. In most cases, travelers must also pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL), which is currently NZD 35.

Do Australians need to apply for NZeTA?

No. Australian citizens do not need a visa or an NZeTA to travel to New Zealand. A valid passport is sufficient for entry, subject to standard immigration checks.

Do NZ permanent residents need NZeTA?

No. New Zealand permanent residents do not need an NZeTA to enter the country. However, they should ensure they hold valid travel conditions or an appropriate travel document for re-entry when traveling overseas.

Do babies need an NZeTA?

Yes. Babies and children are generally required to have an NZeTA if they are citizens of countries where it is mandatory. There are no age-based exemptions.

For how long is NZeTA valid?

An NZeTA is valid for 2 years from the date of issue and can be used for multiple trips during this period. However, the permitted length of stay depends on your passport and travel category. For most visitors, the stay is up to 3 months per visit, while eligible UK passport holders may stay up to 6 months per visit.

How to correct an error in the NZeTA application?

You can request corrections to your NZeTA application using the official NZeTA change request form. Minor errors, such as a misspelled name, incorrect passport number, or updated contact details, can usually be fixed. If the mistake is significant—for example, selecting the wrong application type or entering the wrong country of citizenship—you may need to submit a new application and pay the fee again.

NZeTA app is not working. What to do?

If you are experiencing issues with the NZeTA application, try the following steps:

Last update: April 2026