New Zealand announces new entry requirements for tourists

Published on : Wednesday, March 27, 2019

According to the New Zealand Immigration website, the purpose of the ETA is to “improve the way travellers are assessed before they arrive in New Zealand.” The ETA is also aimed at reducing the time needed for border clearance and strengthening border security.

In the website, IVL is described as “a way for travelers to contribute directly to the tourism infrastructure they use and to help protect and enhance the natural environment they will enjoy during their stay in New Zealand”.

The following types of visitors must now request an ETA before travelling to New Zealand:

• Cruise ship passengers, regardless of your nationality
• Permanent residents of Australia
• Those visiting or in transit from a visa waiver country — that is, a country whose passport holders do not need to get a visa before they arrive in New Zealand
• If you’re travelling on a passport from a visa waiver country or a transit visa waiver country and you will be in transit through Auckland International Airport

Travellers who will not need the ETA are travellers who already hold a valid New Zealand visa; Australian citizens travelling on an Australian passport; and New Zealand citizens travelling on a New Zealand passport, or a foreign passport with an endorsement.

The new New Zealand entry requirements will come into effect on October 1. The government recommends requesting an ETA well in advance of a trip to New Zealand, as it can take up to 72 hours to approve applications.