New Zealand is a beautiful country located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse culture, and friendly people. If you are planning to visit New Zealand, you may need to apply for an electronic travel authorization (eTA) before your trip. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about the New Zealand eTA.

What is a New Zealand eTA?

A New Zealand eTA is an electronic travel authorization that allows visitors to travel to New Zealand for tourism, business, or transit purposes. It is mandatory for citizens of certain countries to apply for an eTA before they can enter New Zealand. The eTA system was implemented by the New Zealand government to improve border security and simplify the immigration process for visitors.

If you are a citizen of one of these countries and you plan to visit New Zealand for less than 90 days, you will need to apply for a New Zealand eTA.

How to apply for a New Zealand eTA?

Applying for a New Zealand eTA is a simple and straightforward process. You can apply online through the official New Zealand immigration website or through a registered travel agent. Here are the steps you need to follow to apply for a New Zealand eTA:

1. Visit the official New Zealand immigration website.
2. Click on the “Apply for a visa or NZeTA” button.
3. Select “Visitor Visa/NZeTA” from the drop-down menu.
4. Click on the “Apply for a NZeTA” button.
5. Read the information and click on the “Apply now” button.
6. Fill in the required information, including your personal details, passport details, and travel plans.
7. Pay the eTA fee using a credit or debit card.
8. Submit your application.

Once your application is submitted, it will be reviewed by the New Zealand immigration authorities. You will receive a notification about the status of your eTA application within a few minutes or hours. In some cases, the authorities may require additional information or documents before they can approve your eTA.

How much does a New Zealand eTA cost?

The cost of a New Zealand eTA varies depending on the application method and the length of stay. If you apply online through the official New Zealand immigration website, the cost is NZD 12 for a single entry eTA and NZD 24 for a multiple entry eTA.

If you apply through a registered travel agent, the cost may be higher due to additional service fees. The eTA fee is non-refundable, even if your application is rejected or withdrawn.

It is important to note that the eTA fee is not the same as the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL), which is a separate fee that is also required for most visitors to New Zealand. The IVL is used to fund tourism infrastructure and conservation projects in New Zealand. The IVL fee is NZD 35 and is usually included in the cost of your airline ticket or travel package.

How long does it take to process a New Zealand eTA application?

In most cases, a New Zealand eTA application is processed within minutes or hours after submission. However, in some cases, it may take longer for the authorities to review your application, especially if they require additional information or documents.

To avoid delays, it is recommended that you apply for your eTA well in advance of your trip to New Zealand. You should also make sure that you provide accurate and complete information on your application.

What are the requirements for a New Zealand eTA?

To apply for a New Zealand eTA, you need to meet the following requirements:

1. You must be a citizen of one of the countries listed above.
2. You must be visiting New Zealand for tourism, business, or transit purposes.
3. You must have a valid passport that is valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in New Zealand.
4. You must have a return or onward ticket to a country that you have the right to enter.
5. You must not have any criminal convictions or be a risk to public health or security.

It is important to note that meeting these requirements does not guarantee that your eTA application will be approved. The New Zealand immigration authorities may reject your application if they have reason to believe that you pose a risk to New Zealand’s security or public health.

How long is a New Zealand eTA valid for?

A New Zealand eTA is usually valid for multiple visits to New Zealand for up to two years from the date of issue. However, the length of validity may vary depending on your individual circumstances and the discretion of the New Zealand immigration authorities.

You must enter New Zealand within the validity period of your eTA. Once you enter New Zealand, you can stay for up to 90 days per visit. If you want to stay longer than 90 days, you may need to apply for a different type of visa.

Conclusion

A New Zealand eTA is a mandatory requirement for citizens of certain countries who plan to visit New Zealand for tourism, business, or transit purposes. Applying for an eTA is a simple and straightforward process that can be completed online through the official New Zealand immigration website or through a registered travel agent. It is important to apply well in advance of your trip to avoid delays, and to make sure that you meet all the requirements for an eTA. With a valid eTA, you can enjoy all that New Zealand has to offer, from its stunning landscapes to its vibrant culture and friendly people.