Written by our editorial team, travel immigration specialists. Last reviewed: September 2026. This site may receive compensation from third-party application services; our content is editorially independent. We always recommend using the Immigration New Zealand portal for the lowest fees.
The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) is a mandatory digital travel authorisation for UK citizens visiting New Zealand (Aotearoa) in 2026. UK passport holders can stay up to 6 months per visit, paying NZD $17 to NZD $23 plus a NZD $100 IVL levy.
Quick summary: The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) is a digital travel authorisation required for UK citizens and other visa-waiver nationals before travelling to New Zealand in 2026. UK passport holders can stay up to 6 months per visit. The NZeTA costs NZD $17 via the mobile app or NZD $23 online, plus a NZD $100 International Visitor Levy (IVL). Apply at.
What Is the NZeTA?
The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) is a digital travel authorisation, not a visa, required for visa-waiver nationals before entering New Zealand. The NZeTA must be obtained online before boarding any flight or cruise.
Once approved, the NZeTA is linked directly to the applicant’s passport and validated at check-in. The authorisation remains valid for 2 years and permits multiple entries within this period. UK travellers can submit their request through the NZeTA portal.
The eTA New Zealand functions as a pre-screening tool for border security rather than a traditional visa grant. It allows eligible visitors to travel without applying for a full visa first.
Who Needs an NZeTA?
The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) is mandatory for citizens of visa-waiver countries, including the United Kingdom, travelling to New Zealand by air or cruise ship.
- Tourism and visiting family or friends – all visa-waiver nationals, including UK passport holders, must hold an approved NZeTA.
- Transit passengers – visa-waiver nationals transiting through Auckland International Airport need an NZeTA, with a maximum 24-hour stay in the transit area.
- Business visitors – short-term business purposes fall under the NZeTA, provided no work is undertaken.
- Cruise ship passengers – sea arrivals from visa-waiver countries require an NZeTA on the same terms as air travellers.
Exemptions – Who Does NOT Need an NZeTA?
- Australian citizens – fully exempt from both the NZeTA and the NZD $100 IVL.
- Australian permanent residents – exempt from the IVL but must still obtain an NZeTA.
- Holders of a valid New Zealand visitor, student, or work visa – no NZeTA needed.
- Diplomatic passport holders – exempt from the NZeTA requirement.
Complete Visa Waiver Country List (2026)
New Zealand’s visa-waiver programme covers over 60 countries in 2026, including the United Kingdom, all EU member states, the United States, and Japan. The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) is required for all listed nationalities before boarding a flight or cruise to New Zealand. New Zealand, known in Māori as Aotearoa, maintains this programme to streamline entry for eligible visitors while strengthening border security through pre-screening. Each applicant’s nationality, as shown on their passport, determines both eligibility and the maximum permitted duration of stay under the visa-waiver framework.
The table below groups eligible countries by region. UK passport holders receive a 6-month maximum stay per visit, while most other visa-waiver nationals are limited to 3 months. For the authoritative and most current list, always cross-reference the Immigration New Zealand website.
| Country | Region | NZeTA Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | Europe | Yes | 6-month stay per visit |
| Ireland | Europe | Yes | 3-month stay |
| Germany | Europe | Yes | 3-month stay |
| France | Europe | Yes | 3-month stay |
| United States | Americas | Yes | 3-month stay |
| Canada | Americas | Yes | 3-month stay |
| Japan | Asia-Pacific | Yes | 3-month stay |
| Australia | Asia-Pacific | No | Citizens exempt; permanent residents exempt from IVL only |
| Singapore | Asia-Pacific | Yes | 3-month stay |
| Israel | Middle East/Africa | Yes | 3-month stay |
| South Africa | Middle East/Africa | Yes | 3-month stay |
The NZeTA applies uniformly across all visa-waiver nationalities shown above, regardless of entry mode. Australian citizens remain fully exempt, while Australian permanent residents must still obtain an NZeTA but are exempt from the NZD $100 IVL. Travellers holding passports from countries not listed should consult Immigration New Zealand to determine whether a full Visitor Visa is required before departure.
UK Citizens & the NZeTA – What’s Different?
The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) grants UK passport holders a maximum stay of 6 months per visit, double the 3-month limit applied to most other visa-waiver nationals. Despite this advantage, the NZeTA still requires UK travellers to pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZD $100 alongside the application fee.
| Feature | UK Passport Holders | Other Visa-Waiver Nationals |
|---|---|---|
| Max stay per visit | 6 months | 3 months |
| IVL required | Yes (NZD $100) | Yes (NZD $100) |
| NZeTA validity | 2 years, multiple entries | 2 years, multiple entries |
The NZeTA differs from the UK’s own Electronic Travel Authorisation system, which applies to visitors entering the United Kingdom. For reciprocity context and emergency consular assistance within New Zealand, UK travellers can consult SafeTravel (operated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Manatū Aorere). The consular emergency line is 0800 30 10 30 (toll-free in NZ) or +64 99 20 20 20 (international), available 24/7. The Ministry is located at 55 Molesworth Street, Wellington 6160, New Zealand (telephone: +64 4 439 8000, social media: @MFATNZ).
NZeTA vs. Visitor Visa – Key Differences
The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) costs NZD $17-$23 and processes within 72 hours; a Visitor Visa permits stays up to 9 months but requires a full consular application that can take weeks.
The NZeTA is for visa-waiver nationals (3 months, UK 6 months) for tourism, business, or transit; the Visitor Visa is for non-waiver nationals or longer stays (up to 9 months). Neither permits work; only the Visitor Visa allows limited study.
| Feature | NZeTA | Visitor Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Visa-waiver nationals (incl. UK) | Non-waiver nationals or extended stays |
| Cost | NZD $17 (app) / NZD $23 (web) + NZD $100 IVL | Full consular fee (varies by category) |
| Duration per visit | 3 months (UK: 6 months) | Up to 9 months |
| Processing time | Within 72 hours | Weeks (full application) |
| Work permitted | No | No |
| Study permitted | No | Limited duration |
If your nationality is not on the visa-waiver list or you plan to stay beyond the NZeTA limit, apply for a Visitor Visa through Immigration New Zealand. For a detailed comparison, see our guide on eTA New Zealand vs Visitor Visa. For broader entry guidance, consult the GOV.UK travel advice for New Zealand.
How NZeTA Compares to Other Travel Authorisations
The eTA New Zealand sits alongside similar electronic travel authorisation systems worldwide, including the UK ETA, Australia ETA, and US ESTA. Each programme has distinct cost, processing time, and validity period. Multi-passport holders and frequent international travellers should verify requirements on each country’s respective immigration portal before departure, as eligibility criteria and fees differ across programmes. The NZeTA specifically covers visa-waiver nationals travelling to New Zealand and is not valid for entry to any other country.
How to Apply for an NZeTA
Applicants complete a five-step online process via the NZeTA portal or mobile app: 1) traveller information, 2) biometric photo, 3) review, 4) declaration, 5) pay and submit (Mastercard accepted). For a detailed walkthrough, see our complete step-by-step guide to applying for an eTA New Zealand.
Traveller information
Enter your name, nationality as shown on your passport, and passport number.
Biometric photo
Upload a face photo meeting biometric specifications.
Review and confirm
Verify all entered details for accuracy.
Declaration
Declare your health and character status.
Pay and submit
Cover the NZeTA fee plus the NZD $100 IVL; Mastercard is an accepted payment brand.
Common mistakes that can delay or void an application include selecting the wrong nationality, applying on an expired passport, or uploading a photo that fails biometric checks. In our editorial testing of the NZeTA mobile app, the card-scan feature streamlined payment entry, though we recommend double-checking the passport number field carefully, as typos require resubmission. For context, third-party visa services such as VisaHQ (20+ years, 1M+ travellers served, 99.6% first-time acceptance rate) offer application assistance, but applying directly through the NZeTA portal ensures the lowest fees.
App vs. Online Application – Cost Difference
The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) costs NZD $17 when submitted via the mobile app, which includes a card-scan feature, or NZD $23 through the web portal. Both channels require the same five steps and the same supporting documents.
NZeTA Fees & the International Visitor Levy (IVL)
The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) costs NZD $17 via the mobile app or NZD $23 via the web portal, plus a mandatory NZD $100 International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL). The IVL is paid simultaneously with the NZeTA fee. For a full breakdown of all charges, see our complete guide to NZeTA costs and the IVL levy.
| Application Channel | NZeTA Fee | IVL | Total Upfront Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile app | NZD $17 | NZD $100 | NZD $117 |
| Web portal | NZD $23 | NZD $100 | NZD $123 |
The NZeTA accepts Mastercard as a confirmed payment method. Australian permanent residents are exempt from the NZD $100 IVL but still require an approved NZeTA. Once submitted, the NZeTA application fee is non-refundable. Full fee details are available at. [Verified: 3 August 2026 against Immigration NZ fee schedule]
Processing Time, Validity & Entry Requirements
The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) is typically processed within 72 hours. Once approved, the NZeTA remains valid for 2 years and permits multiple entries during that period. Each stay is capped at 3 months for most nationals or 6 months for UK passport holders. For more detail on how long approval takes, read our guide on eTA New Zealand processing times.
Passport Validity & Document Checklist
- Passport valid for at least 3 months past planned departure from New Zealand.
- Biometric face photo required from every applicant.
- Payment card (Mastercard accepted) and active email address.
For a comprehensive list of what to prepare, see our full document checklist for UK travellers.
Financial Requirements for Entry
- Minimum NZD $1,000 per month of stay, or NZD $400 per month if accommodation is prepaid.
- Onward or return ticket mandatory as proof of scheduled departure.
Criminal History & Character Requirements
- Serious criminal convictions may result in NZeTA refusal.
- Disqualified applicants must apply for a Visitor Visa via Immigration New Zealand.
Transit Through Auckland: NZeTA Rules
The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) is mandatory for all visa-waiver nationals transiting by air through Auckland International Airport. Transit passengers must remain in the designated transit area for a maximum of 24 hours. For full details, see our guide on NZeTA transit requirements for UK travellers.
- Transit is limited to a maximum of 24 hours, during which travellers must stay within the designated transit area.
- Christchurch and Wellington are not available for NZeTA transit.
- Passengers cannot connect to domestic flights without clearing immigration.
- All visa-waiver nationals transiting by air must hold a valid NZeTA before boarding their flight.
For instance, a UK traveller transiting from London to Sydney via Auckland with a 4-hour layover must hold a valid NZeTA before boarding, even without leaving the transit area. Key lesson: ensure your passport has 3+ months validity beyond your final departure date, not just your arrival in New Zealand.
NZeTA & Immigration Updates for 2026
In 2026, NZeTA rules are unchanged. Other Immigration New Zealand updates: Welcoming Week 2026 (announced 11 Sept 2026), Post-Study Work Visa eligibility extension (effective 16 Nov 2026), and Short-Term Graduate Work Visa launch (16 Nov 2026), both aligning with New Zealand’s skills needs.
For travellers affected by Middle East travel disruptions, a dedicated priority line operates Monday to Friday at +64 9 914 4100 (international) or 0508 558 855 (toll-free within New Zealand), menu option 7. The NZeTA is not impacted by these updates.
Last updated: 2026. New Zealand immigration policies may change without notice. Always verify current requirements at the Immigration New Zealand website before travelling.
Frequently Asked Questions about the eTA New Zealand
Do UK citizens need an NZeTA for New Zealand in 2026?
Yes. UK passport holders are visa-waiver nationals and must obtain an approved NZeTA before travelling to New Zealand. The NZeTA is linked to the passport, valid for 2 years, and allows a 6-month stay (vs. 3 months for most others). Apply at.
How much does a New Zealand eTA cost for UK travellers?
The NZeTA costs NZD $17 via the mobile app or NZD $23 via the web portal at. All applicants must also pay the IVL of NZD $100 at the same time. Total upfront cost: NZD $117 (app) or NZD $123 (web).
How long does it take to get a New Zealand eTA?
Most NZeTA applications are processed within 72 hours. Complex requests involving additional checks may take longer. Travellers are advised to apply at least 72 hours before departure. There is no expedited processing option available. You will receive an NZeTA approval notification by email once your request has been assessed.
Can I fly to New Zealand without an NZeTA?
No. All visa-waiver nationals, including UK citizens, must hold an approved NZeTA before boarding any flight or cruise ship bound for New Zealand. Airlines and cruise operators will check for a valid NZeTA at check-in. Without one, you will not be permitted to board. This rule applies to both tourism and transit travellers.
What documents do I need to apply for an NZeTA?
You need a valid passport with at least 3 months validity beyond your planned departure from New Zealand, a digital face photo (biometric information), a payment card (Mastercard accepted), and an email address. You will also declare your travel plans and confirm your health and character status during the five-step application process.
How long is a New Zealand eTA valid?
An approved NZeTA is valid for 2 years from the date of approval and allows multiple trips. Each stay is limited to 3 months for most nationalities, or 6 months for UK passport holders per visit.
Do cruise ship passengers need an NZeTA?
Yes. Cruise passengers from visa-waiver countries, including the United Kingdom, must hold an approved NZeTA before arriving in New Zealand by sea. The same eligibility criteria, fees (NZD $17 via app or NZD $23 via web plus NZD $100 IVL), and 2-year validity rules apply as for air travellers.
What are the common reasons for NZeTA rejection?
Common reasons include providing passport details that do not exactly match the passport, uploading a photo that does not meet biometric specifications, having a serious criminal conviction, or payment failure. If rejected, applicants may need to apply for a full Visitor Visa through a New Zealand consulate or via.
Can I apply for an NZeTA if I have a criminal record?
Applicants with minor offences may still be approved, but serious criminal convictions (including sentences of 5+ years, or 12+ months imprisonment in the last 10 years) will likely result in NZeTA refusal. In that case, you must apply for a Visitor Visa directly through Immigration New Zealand.
Is the IVL included in the NZeTA fee?
No. The International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZD $100 is a separate charge that must be paid at the same time as the NZeTA fee. The IVL is mandatory for all NZeTA applicants except Australian permanent residents. The combined total is NZD $117 (app) or NZD $123 (web).
