Is New Zealand a part of your bucket list? Most travellers need a visa or a New Zealand eTA application to visit New Zealand. Introduced in October 2019, the NZeTA has become a must-travel document for those visiting New Zealand.
What is the NZeTA?
The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority is a digital system that enhances border security and reduces the risks of illegal immigration. Although not exactly a visa, it is a pre-travel document allowing eligible travellers to visit the nation for business, travel, or other purposes. But why has it gained so much popularity and how can you apply for a New Zealand visa? Let’s find out.
Understanding New Zealand eTA Application
A New Zealand eTA application is a document that people may use to visit the land without having to apply for a visa first. This process however depends on one’s passport, how they are travelling, and if they are visiting or just passing through.
Who needs to apply for an NZeTA?
You need to apply for an NZeTA if:
- You are entering New Zealand in a flight or cruise
- You hail from a visa-waiver country
- You are travelling on a visa-waiver country passport or are from a transit visa-waiver country, and will pass through Auckland International Airport on your way to another country
- You will pass through Auckland International Airport on your way to or from Australia
- You hold an Australian permanent resident visa
- You are planning for a short trip, i.e. less than 3 months (6 months if you are a British citizen)
Who Does Not Have to Apply for an NZeTA?
Apart from being a New Zealand resident that is travelling on a New Zealand passport, you also don’t have to apply for an NZeTA if you:
- Are travelling on a foreign passport but with a NZ citizen sponsorship
- Hold a NZ permanent resident visa
- Hold a valid visa to New Zealand
- Are an Australian citizen with a valid passport
- Are associated with a scientific expedition or programme under the Contracting Party to the Antarctic Treaty
Duration of Stay
An NZeTA document will allow a visitor to stay for over three months. However, it remains valid for up to two years, allowing multiple entries into the country. However, if you work with an airline or are a crew member, you would have to obtain a separate NZeTA that is specific to crew members and remains valid for over five years.
When to Apply
The great thing about the NzeTA is that it has an incredibly short processing time. You can request the eTA on the official app, which is free to download and use. The New Zealand eTA application process here takes less than 5 minutes.
Alternatively, you can apply via the official website. Your application will be processed within 72 hours.
It may take longer depending upon other verification, if needed.
What is The Application Process?
It is a fairly simple process to apply for a New Zealand visa. To apply for an NZeTA, you first need to visit the official New Zealand Immigration website. You can also download the mobile app for NZeTA. Although the process for New Zealand eTA application is simple, you need to ensure that every information given is accurate. This will help you avoid rejection or delays.
Documents Needed for eTA Application:
Here’s all the documents and information you need for a valid application:
- You need to have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay period.
- A recent digital photo that meets New Zealand’s requirements.
- A valid debit or credit card.
- A valid email address where your NZeTA will be sent.
- Your travel details including your date of arrival and transport details.
- Information about the purpose of your visit.
Fees and Charges
During this process, you will also have to pay the NZeTA fee (NZD $17 on the app, or NZD $23 online) along with an IVL fee (NZD $100). The IVL fee stands for International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy which contributes to their tourism structure and helps protect their natural environment.
Double-check all your information before submitting it to avoid errors that lead to rejection.
Important Tips for a Successful NZeTA Application
When you apply for a New Zealand visa, there are several factors you need to remember. Considering these carefully will ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience in entering New Zealand.
- Consider your travel history or if you have any previous issues with immigration. You should clearly mention in your application if you have ever previously overstayed your visa.
Do not put any false information in your application. This may result in immediate rejection of your application.
- There are also certain significant health requirements. You must state clearly if you have any severe medical conditions. This is especially vital if you have planned on staying for a longer time and may need to be hospitalised.
- You should also positively have travel insurance. It is, however not mandatory for NZeTA approval. The healthcare system there may not cover all expenses for visitors and treatment can be very costly. Thus, having thorough insurance will protect you from unexpected medical expenses.
Additional Tips:
- Apply only via their official website or app. This will help you avoid scams by third-party services.
- Have a copy of the confirmation email of the New Zealand eTA application handy during your travels.
- You must also check every detail of your passport so that they match exactly.
- You should apply for a New Zealand eTA application even if you are going to just pass through the country.
If your application has been declined, carefully evaluate the reasons provided. In this case, you may need to apply for a visitor visa instead. If your problem persists you can also get help from a licensed advisor. They will guide you through the process for a smooth ride.
In Case of Errors
The New Zealand eTA application allows you a short window of error rectification. You need to fill out the form on the official website.
Keep in mind that this form is only meant for correcting minor errors. These include, but are not limited to:
- Incorrect spelling of name
- Email address update
- Missing digits in address/passport number
- Passport number update
You will not be able to use this form to make changes pertaining to:
- Your country of origin
- Your passport issuing state
- Your actual answers on the form
- The kind of NZeTA you have applied for
Things to Remember
Following these guidelines and making sure you meet all the requirements before applying, will ensure a successful application. It will minimise your chance of having your New Zealand eTA application rejected. Make sure you double-check all your data before doing the final submission.
Keep the following information handy:
- Your date of birth
- Your name and surname
- Your contact information
- Declarations of character
Start Planning Your Trip Today with the NZeTA
A short trip to New Zealand is now easy with the NZeTA. Apply for the New Zealand visa online or on your mobile today, and you will have received your visa by the time you are done with packing. For more details, get in touch with the New Zealand Visa Helpdesk.
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