Irish citizens need an NZeTA, not a full visa, to visit New Zealand. The NZeTA for Irish citizens costs NZD $17 via app or NZD $23 via web, plus a NZD $100 IVL. Processing takes up to 72 hours, and the authorisation is valid for 2 years.
This guide covers the complete application process, costs, and entry conditions for Irish passport holders, plus visa requirements for citizens of South Africa, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Israel, Turkey, and Ukraine. Last updated: 10 September 2026. This guide is for informational purposes only – always verify requirements with Immigration New Zealand before travelling.
NZeTA for Irish Citizens – Visa Waiver Status in 2026
The NZeTA for Irish citizens allows visa-waiver stays of up to 3 months per visit, provided the passport is valid 3+ months beyond departure. The NZeTA for Irish citizens permits multiple entries within its 2-year validity period, but holders cannot undertake paid employment or study for longer than 3 months.
How Long Can Irish Citizens Stay in New Zealand?
Each entry under the NZeTA for Irish citizens allows a maximum stay of 3 months. The authorisation remains valid for 2 years from approval, enabling multiple visits within that window.
Irish Passport Requirements for NZeTA
Applicants must present an Irish passport valid for at least 3 months beyond the planned departure from New Zealand. The passport nationality field must match Irish citizenship exactly, and a biometric photo upload is required during the application process.
How to Apply for an NZeTA for Irish Citizens
The NZeTA for Irish citizens is obtained via a 5-step online process, processed within 72 hours.
Traveller information
Enter your nationality as shown on your Irish passport.
Traveller photo
Upload a biometric photo of your face.
Review and confirm
Verify all passport details; incorrect entries may prevent travel.
Declaration
Confirm the accuracy of submitted information.
Pay and submit
Complete payment with a Visa or Mastercard credit or debit card.
To avoid delays with the NZeTA for Irish citizens, ensure your photo is well-lit, without sunglasses, and in the correct format, and that your passport number, nationality field, and email address are entered without errors. For the most up-to-date fees and requirements, always check the Immigration New Zealand portal at.
NZeTA Application Channels and Costs
| Channel | Cost | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile app | NZD $17 | Payment card scanning supported |
| Web browser | NZD $23 | Desktop-friendly, no app required |
NZeTA vs Visitor Visa – Country-by-Country Comparison
Ireland, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Israel citizens qualify for the NZeTA; South Africa, Turkey, and Ukraine citizens must apply for a full Visitor Visa.
| Country | NZeTA Eligible? | Max Stay | IVL | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ireland | ✓ Yes | 3 months | NZD $100 | NZD $117-$123 |
| South Africa | ✗ No (Visitor Visa) | Up to 9 months | NZD $100 | NZD $211-$246 + $100 |
| UAE | ✓ Yes | 3 months | NZD $100 | NZD $117-$123 |
| Saudi Arabia | ✓ Yes | 3 months | NZD $100 | NZD $117-$123 |
| Israel | ✓ Yes | 3 months | NZD $100 | NZD $117-$123 |
| Turkey | ✗ No (Visitor Visa) | Up to 9 months | NZD $100 | NZD $211-$246 + $100 |
| Ukraine | ✗ No (Visitor Visa) | Up to 9 months | NZD $100 | NZD $211-$246 + $100 |
The NZeTA for Irish citizens costs less than a Visitor Visa, though the NZD $100 IVL applies to all nationalities. The NZD $211-$246 range for Visitor Visa fees depends on application type (online vs paper) and length of stay.
Visitor Visa and Transit Rules for Non-Waiver Citizens
Citizens of South Africa, Turkey, and Ukraine must apply for a Visitor Visa requiring financial proof of NZD $1,000/month and 20+ working days processing. The fee ranges from NZD $211 to NZD $246, with standard processing taking 20+ working days. Applicants must demonstrate financial means of NZD $1,000 per month (or NZD $400/month if accommodation is prepaid) and meet character thresholds where any sentence of 12+ months imprisonment triggers denial or referral. The Visitor Visa permits a stay of up to 9 months within an 18-month period.
Non-waiver citizens transiting through Auckland International Airport may require a Transit Visa unless they hold a valid visa for a third country. Transit passengers are exempt from the NZD $100 IVL. All travellers, including those holding an NZeTA for Irish citizens, must separately complete the New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) before departure via the portal.
Entry Conditions and Extending Your Stay
Travellers must complete the separate New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) before departure, carry proof of onward or return travel, and meet financial means verification of NZD $1,000/month or NZD $400/month if accommodation is prepaid. Character thresholds also apply: any sentence of 12+ months imprisonment triggers denial or Visitor Visa referral.
The NZeTA for Irish citizens cannot be extended online. Holders may apply for an onshore Visitor Visa before expiry or leave and re-enter within the 2-year validity period, with each stay capped at 3 months. Alternatively, Irish citizens aged 18-30 can apply for a Working Holiday Visa, granting 12 months of work and study rights across approximately 5,000 places per year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do Irish citizens need a visa to visit New Zealand?
No. Irish citizens are on New Zealand’s visa waiver list and do not require a Visitor Visa. Instead, they must obtain an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before travelling. Irish passport holders must also hold a valid passport for at least 3 months beyond their intended departure date.
How much does the NZeTA cost for Irish citizens?
The NZeTA fee for Irish citizens is NZD $17 if applying via the mobile app or NZD $23 via the web browser. Additionally, applicants must pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZD $100 at the same time. The total cost is NZD $117 or NZD $123.
How long does the NZeTA take to process?
The standard processing time for an NZeTA application is within 72 hours. Complex requests may take longer. Apply at least 2 weeks before your intended travel date.
How long can Irish citizens stay in New Zealand on an NZeTA?
Irish citizens can stay in New Zealand for up to 3 months per visit on an NZeTA. The NZeTA itself is valid for 2 years from approval, allowing multiple entries within this period. Stays cannot exceed the 3-month limit per entry.
Can Irish citizens work in New Zealand on an NZeTA?
No. The NZeTA does not permit paid employment in New Zealand. Irish citizens wishing to work must apply for a specific work visa or a Working Holiday Visa. The Working Holiday Visa for Irish citizens is available for those aged 18 to 30, allowing a 12-month stay.
Do South African citizens need an NZeTA or a visa for New Zealand?
South African citizens are not eligible for the NZeTA. They must apply for a full Visitor Visa before travelling to New Zealand. The Visitor Visa costs between NZD $211 and NZD $246, requires financial proof of NZD $1,000 per month, and processing takes 20 or more working days.
Can I extend my stay if I entered on an NZeTA?
You cannot extend an NZeTA online. To stay longer, you must apply for an onshore Visitor Visa before your NZeTA expires. Alternatively, you can leave New Zealand and re-enter, provided your NZeTA is still valid within its 2-year validity period.
What is the New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD)?
The New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) is a separate mandatory digital form covering biosecurity, customs, and travel history. It is not part of the NZeTA application. All travellers, including Irish citizens, must complete the NZTD via the app or website before departing for New Zealand.
