What Is an NZeTA & How to Obtain an NZeTA via the Official New Zealand Government Site
If you are travelling to New Zealand and you are from a visa waiver country, you may need an NZeTA before you fly or arrive.
This guide shows you exactly how to apply for an NZeTA using the official government website, so you do not overpay or get misled by third-party sites.
This matters more than ever. Many travellers are being charged for something that is either free
Official Site: https://nzeta.immigration.govt.nz/
What Is an NZeTA
The NZeTA, short for New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority, is not a visa.
It is a travel authorisation required for travellers from visa waiver countries, including Singapore.
It allows you to board a flight to New Zealand and be assessed by immigration officers upon arrival.
The NZeTA is managed by Immigration New Zealand.
Who Needs an NZeTA
You need an NZeTA if you
• Are travelling on a passport from a visa waiver country
• Are transiting through New Zealand
• Are arriving by air or cruise ship
You do not need an NZeTA if you
• Are a New Zealand citizen
• Hold a valid New Zealand visa
• Are an Australian citizen travelling on an Australian passport
The Only Official Way to Apply
There is only one official place to apply for an NZeTA: the New Zealand government.
The application is issued by Immigration New Zealand via the official NZeTA platform.
Any website that looks official but charges high fees is not the government.
NZeTA Requirements
To apply for an NZeTA, you must have
• A valid passport from a visa waiver country
• A passport valid for the duration of your stay
• A valid email address
• Access to a debit or credit card if payment is required
You must also
• Complete the application online or via the official NZeTA app
• Answer health and character questions honestly
• Apply before travelling to New Zealand
You may also be required to pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy depending on your nationality and travel type.
The NZeTA does not guarantee entry. Final entry approval is always decided by New Zealand border officials on arrival.
Who Can Apply for an NZeTA
You can apply for an NZeTA if you meet all of the following conditions.
You are travelling to New Zealand for a short stay, such as tourism, visiting family or friends, or a short business trip.
You hold a passport from a visa waiver country, including Singapore and many European countries.
You are travelling to New Zealand by air or cruise ship, or you are transiting through New Zealand to another destination.
You do not currently hold a New Zealand visa.
The NZeTA application is managed by Immigration New Zealand.
Who Does Not Need an NZeTA
You do not need an NZeTA if you are
A New Zealand citizen travelling on a New Zealand passport
An Australian citizen travelling on an Australian passport
A traveller holding a valid New Zealand visa
Important to Know
The NZeTA is a travel authorisation, not a visa, and it does not guarantee entry.
Final entry approval is always decided by New Zealand border officials on arrival.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for an NZeTA
Step 1
Go to the official New Zealand government NZeTA application page or use the official NZeTA mobile app.
Make sure the site clearly states it is operated by Immigration New Zealand.
Step 2
Prepare the following
• Your passport
• A valid email address
• A debit or credit card if required
Step 3
Fill in your personal details exactly as shown on your passport.
Double-check passport number, expiry date, and name spelling.
Step 4
Answer the health and character questions honestly.
Incorrect answers can delay or reject your application.
Step 5
Submit the application.
Most NZeTA approvals are issued within minutes, but it can take up to 72 hours.
How Much Does an NZeTA Cost
The NZeTA itself is either free or very low-cost when applied for through the official channel.
Some travellers may also be required to pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy, depending on nationality and travel type.
If a website is charging high amounts, service fees, or fast-track fees, it is not the official government site.
How Long Is an NZeTA Valid For
An approved NZeTA is valid for
• Up to two years
• Multiple entries
• Short-term visits
The same passport must remain valid during the travel period.
Common NZeTA Scams to Avoid
• Websites charging large fees for a free or cheap application
• Pages using words like express approval or guaranteed approval
• QR codes at airports that redirect to paid third-party services
• Sites that do not clearly state Immigration New Zealand
Always pause and double-check before paying.
Final Advice Before You Apply
If something looks official but asks for a high payment, stop.
Search for the official Immigration New Zealand NZeTA page and apply directly.
This simple check can save you money and stress before your trip.
FAQ:
Can I apply at the airport
You should apply before travel. Airlines may deny boarding if you do not have a valid NZeTA.
Can someone else apply for me
Yes, as long as the details entered are accurate.
What if I made a mistake
You may need to submit a new application if details are incorrect.
Do New Zealand citizens need an NZeTA
No. New Zealand passport holders do not need one.