If you’re planning to visit New Zealand, one of the essential steps for many travellers is obtaining a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA). The NZeTA is required for travellers from visa waiver countries, including tourists, transit passengers, and airline crew members. To ensure a smooth journey, it’s crucial to apply via the official website or mobile app and avoid third-party scams.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the application process, costs, and what to watch out for when applying for the NZeTA.
What is the NZeTA?
The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) is a mandatory travel document for visitors from visa waiver countries who are travelling to New Zealand for tourism, business, or transit purposes. It is not a visa but is required to enter New Zealand unless you hold an exemption.
Key Details:
- Who Needs an NZeTA? Citizens from visa waiver countries, cruise passengers, and airline crew members who are not New Zealand residents.
- How Long is It Valid For? The NZeTA is valid for multiple entries for up to 2 years.
- Processing Time: It can take up to 72 hours for approval, so travellers should apply well in advance of their planned trip.
How to Apply for the NZeTA
1. Use the Official Website or Mobile App
To ensure your application is secure and processed by New Zealand authorities, it’s important to apply via the official channels:
- The official website to apply for the NZeTA is:
https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/visas/visa/nzeta - Alternatively, you can download the official NZeTA mobile app available on both iOS and Android platforms.
2. Cost of the NZeTA
The application fee differs depending on the platform used:
- Mobile App: Applying through the NZeTA mobile app costs NZ$17.
- Website Form: Applying via the website costs NZ$23.
In addition to the NZeTA fee, visitors are required to pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL), which costs NZ$35.
3. Steps to Apply for the NZeTA
- Fill in the required personal information, including your passport details, travel plans, and health information.
- Pay the required fee (NZ$17 via app or NZ$23 via the website).
- Submit your application and wait for confirmation.
It’s important to note that approval for the NZeTA can take up to 72 hours, so ensure you apply well in advance of your travel date to avoid any last-minute delays.
Avoiding Scams and Third-Party Sites
When applying for your NZeTA, it's crucial to avoid third-party websites that may charge exorbitant fees for the same service. Unfortunately, even when searching on Google, you might come across sponsored ads from unofficial sites. Despite Google claiming it does not promote ETA-related services, these ads continue to appear.
Key Tips to Avoid Scams:
- Use Only the Official Channels: Always apply via the official New Zealand immigration website or the official NZeTA mobile app. Avoid third-party sites or agents, as they charge significantly higher fees and may not guarantee your NZeTA approval.
- Avoid Sponsored Ads on Google: Be cautious of clicking on Google-sponsored ads for NZeTA services. These ads often lead to third-party websites that offer the same service at a much higher cost.
- Check for the Government Website: The official New Zealand immigration website URL will always include “.govt.nz” in the address. Ensure that you are applying through this domain to avoid any fraudulent activity.
Conclusion
Applying for the New Zealand eTA is a straightforward process when done through the official website or mobile app. Make sure to avoid third-party websites and apply in advance to ensure your travel plans proceed without delay. With a valid NZeTA, you’ll be ready to explore the natural beauty and vibrant culture of New Zealand with ease.
Remember:
This post is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional immigration advice. Given the uniqueness of every case, engaging with a registered migration agent is highly recommended for bespoke guidance and to navigate the specific details of your situation effectively. Book a visa consultation with a Registered Migration Agent
Subscribe to our newsletter
Sign up to our weekly newsletter to get the latest news about all things visas & immigration.
