Aug 30, 2019
What the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority means for our clients
New Zealand is changing the way visitors enter the country. The new electronic travel authority and tourism levy are meant to improve the travel experience for everyone! Here's what you need to know about these changes.
Q: What is the NZeTA?
A: The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) is a new border security measure introduced by the New Zealand Government. Travelers visiting New Zealand from October 1, 2019 and after will need an NZeTA to enter the country.
Please note: The NZeTA is not a visa and does not guarantee entry to New Zealand. On arrival, you must still meet all existing entry requirements - such as holding an onward ticket and being in good health - to legally enter.
Q: Do I need the NZeTA to visit New Zealand?
A: Yes. Citizens of the United States and Canada - considered 'visa-waiver countries' by Immigration NZ - must still have an NZeTA in order to enter the country.
Q: Where do I apply for an New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) visa?
A: You can apply for the NZeTA on the Immigration NZ website or by downloading the mobile app on your phone.
The application will request a few key personal details - such as your passport information - and takes 5-10 minutes to process. You'll then receive an email or app response from Immigration NZ regarding your NZeTA status.
We suggest giving yourself at least 72 hours for processing this application, prior to travel.
Q: Does the NZeTA cost anything?
A: The NZeTA costs $9 NZD when applying with the mobile app and $12 NZD when applying on the Immigration NZ website. Payments can be made directly with debit or credit card.
Q: I've heard there's another cost associated with the application. What is this tourism levy?
A: The International Visitor Conservation & Tourism Levy (IVL) will allow visitors, like yourself, to contribute to the tourism infrastructure you use and help protect the unique natural environments you'v traveled so far to see. The $35 NZD cost of the IVL will be added to your NZeTA when you apply, so you only need one Immigration NZ application and payment - easy and convenient!
Q: I didn’t need anything to enter New Zealand last time. Why do I need an NZeTA and IVL now?
A: These will provide greater border security, and help the country better interact with an increasing number of tourists.
Previously, citizens of the United States and Canada were given 90-day Tourist Visas on arrival in New Zealand. Now, visitors from the US and Canada will need to have the NZeTA prior to travel.
Please be aware that Air New Zealand and other international airlines will not let you board a plane bound for New Zealand if you don't have an NZeTA!
Q: What if I'm only passing through Auckland on the way to Australia?
A: If you are passing through Auckland International Airport as a transit passenger, you must still have an NZeTA.
Please note: If you are only transiting through AKL on your way to Australia, or another country, you do not need to pay the IVL.
Q: Can my Best of New Zealand travel agent apply for the NZeTA for me?
A: Due to the personal nature of information required for this application, we advise that our clients apply using the Immigration NZ website or mobile app only.
No third parties are authorized to apply for the NZeTA on your behalf.
Images copyright - Immigration New Zealand
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