Changes to New Zealand entry requirements coming Oct. 1

This fall, Canadians entering New Zealand without a visa will need to get an electronic travel authority before their arrival, following a change in policy by Immigration New Zealand.

The change, effective Oct. 1, was announced this week as a part of new measures to enhance border security; the change will be in effect for Canadian travellers, even if they are transiting to another country.

Currently, Canadians visiting New Zealand on stays of up to 90 days do not require a tourist visa.

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Applying for NzeTA

Applicants for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) will require:

• a valid passport that you will use to travel to New Zealand
• a credit card or debit card (Visa or Mastercard)
• an email address

An NZeTA request costs NZD $9 on Immigration New Zealand’s free app, or NZD $12 if completed online. Travellers using the app can scan their passport and credit/debit card to instantly upload details and complete their application in less than five minutes.

Applicants are advised that processing can take as little as 10 minutes or up to 72 hours.

More information for the travel trade is available here.

The change, effective Oct. 1, was announced this week as a part of new measures to enhance border security; the change will be in effect for Canadian travellers, even if they are transiting to another country.