When traveling to New Zealand for a vacation, there are a couple of formalities that you must complete prior to travel. First you must apply for the NZeTA – New Zealand Electronic Travel Authorization. This could take a few days so apply for this a few weeks before you travel.
You. can apply online https://www.immigration.govt.nz/visas/new-zealand-electronic-travel-authority-nzeta/ or using the handy mobile application called NZeTA in the iPhone Apps Store. The mobile app is the way to go as it will scan your passport as part of the process, making the application a breeze.
The website makes it clear who needs the NZeTA, how long it is valid for, how long you can stay in 1 trip and how long you can stay in any 12 month period. For example if you hold a USA Passport, the NZeTA is valid for 2 years, and you can stay up to 3 months in one visit. If you are from the United Kingdom, then you are allowed to stay for up to 6 months in one visit.
The cost for the application is NZ$17, but when you apply you will be charged NZ$117 as they add on the NZ$100 IVL fee.
The IVL, or International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy, is a $100 New Zealand dollar fee paid by most international visitors to New Zealand. Introduced on July 1, 2019, and updated on October 1, 2024, it funds projects that support the country’s natural heritage and tourism infrastructure. The levy is collected with visa or NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) applications and is valid for up to two years.
With your NZeTA approved and showing your status in the mobile app, the next documentation you must provide is the New Zealand Traveller Declaration, that you need at the border to pass through customs. The NZTD can be completed online up to 24 hours before your journey begins, so plan on filing out the form before you leave home. The web site is clear on the requirements and when you must have filed the NZTD https://www.travellerdeclaration.govt.nz/. There is also another mobile app called NZTD in the iPhone Apps Store that steps you through the application.
Once you arrive at the airport of entry in to New Zealand, you must be granted a VISA to enter the country for your visit. Although you hold a NZeTA it’s not a guarantee that you will be able to enter the country as that is a decision made by the immigration officers. Most people need not worry though, it should be a formality to pass before you are on your way.
In summary, there are a couple of applications you must take care of before you travel, it’s easy to accomplish both of these online or using the handy mobile apps available on the AppStore and GooglePlay.