New Zealand Transit Visa

Updated on Jun 29, 2023 | New Zealand eTA

If you are planning to transit through New Zealand on your way to another country, you can easily obtain the Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) instead of a visa. This applies specifically to passengers passing through Auckland International Airport.

Do I need an NZeTA for Transit through New Zealand?

Applying for Transit NZeTA for New Zealand: Easy and Convenient

If you are planning to transit through New Zealand on your way to another country, you can easily obtain the Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) instead of a visa. This applies specifically to passengers passing through Auckland International Airport.

To ensure a smooth transit experience, it is necessary for all eligible travelers to possess a transit NZeTA. Fortunately, the application process for the New Zealand Travel Authority is entirely online and can be completed quickly.

Here are the key points to know about obtaining a transit NZeTA:

New Zealand Visa Application Form now allows visitors from all nationalities to obtain New Zealand eTA (NZETA) by email without visiting New Zealand Embassy. Government of New Zealand now officially recommends New Zealand Visa or New Zealand ETA online rather than sending paper documents. You can obtain NZETA by filling out a form in under three minutes on this website. The only requirement is to have a Debit or Credit Card and email id. You do not need to send your passport for Visa stamping. If you are arriving to New Zealand by the Cruise Ship route, you should check the New Zealand ETA eligibility conditions for Cruise Ship arrival to New Zealand.

Who needs a transit NZeTA?

Transit passengers, individuals who need to pass through New Zealand en route to another country, must have a transit NZeTA.

This requirement applies specifically to passengers transiting through Auckland International Airport.

Applying for a transit NZeTA

The application process is straightforward and can be conveniently completed online.

Eligible travelers can apply for the New Zealand Travel Authority before their transit.

It is recommended to apply for the transit NZeTA well in advance of your travel date to avoid any last-minute complications.

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Benefits of the transit NZeTA:

The transit NZeTA streamlines the transit process, making it easier for travelers passing through New Zealand.

It simplifies the entry requirements and eliminates the need for a traditional visa, saving time and effort.

Eligibility criteria for transit NZeTA

Travelers who meet the transit NZeTA eligibility criteria can apply for this travel authority.

The specific requirements can be found on the official New Zealand immigration website or by consulting with relevant authorities.

Transit Visa for New Zealand: Requirements for Non-Transit NZeTA Passengers

If you are planning to transit through New Zealand on your way to another country and you are not eligible for the transit NZeTA, it is important to obtain a transit visa. This visa is required for passengers who do not meet the criteria for the transit NZeTA and ensures a smooth transit experience through New Zealand.

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NZeTA for Transit Passengers: Eligible Countries and Exit Restrictions

If you are a transit passenger planning to pass through Auckland International Airport in New Zealand, you may be eligible to obtain a Transit NZeTA. However, it's important to note that holders of a transit NZeTA are not permitted to exit the airport during their stopover. In order to explore the city or country, travelers with a long stopover must apply for either a Tourism NZeTA (for visa waiver countries) or a New Zealand Tourist Visa (for visa-required countries). Visa applications should be made at the nearest New Zealand embassy or consulate for the following countries.

Afghanistan

Albania

Algeria

Andorra

Angola

Antigua and Barbuda

Argentina

Armenia

Austria

Azerbaijan

Bahamas

Bahrain

Bangladesh

Barbados

Belarus

Belgium

Belize

Benin

Bhutan

Bolivia

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Botswana

Brazil

Brunei Darussalam

Bulgaria

Burkina Faso

Burundi

Cambodia

Cameroon

Canada

Cape Verde

Central African Republic

Chad

Chile

China

Colombia

Comoros

Congo

Costa Rica

Cote D'Ivoire

Croatia

Cuba

Czech Republic

Denmark

Djibouti

Dominica

Dominican Republic

Ecuador

Egypt

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eritrea

Estonia

Ethiopia

Fiji

Finland

France

Gabon

Gambia

Georgia

Germany

Ghana

Greece

Grenada

Guatemala

Guinea

Guinea-Bissau

Guyana

Haiti

Honduras

Hong Kong

Hungary

Iceland

India

Indonesia

Iran, Islamic Republic of

Ireland

Iraq

Israel

Italy

Jamaica

Japan

Jordan

Kazakhstan

Kenya

Kiribati

Korea, Democratic People's Republic of

Korea, Republic of

Kuwait

Kyrgyzstan

Lao People's Democratic Republic

Latvia

Liberia

Libya

Liechtenstein

Lithuania

Luxembourg

Macau

Macedonia

Madagascar

Malawi

Malaysia

Maldives

Mali

Malta

Marshall Islands

Mauritania

Mauritius

Mexico

Micronesia, Federated States of

Moldova, Republic of

Monaco

Mongolia

Montenegro

Morocco

Mozambique

Myanmar

Namibia

Nauru

Nepal

Netherlands

Nicaragua

Niger

Nigeria

Norway

Oman

Pakistan

Palau

Palestinian Territory

Panama

Papua New Guinea

Paraguay

Peru

Philippines

Poland

Portugal

Qatar

Republic of Cyprus

Romania

Russian Federation

Rwanda

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Samoa

San Marino

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Senegal

Serbia

Seychelles

Sierra Leone

Singapore

Slovakia

Slovenia

Solomon Islands

Somalia

South Africa

South Sudan

Spain

Sri Lanka

Sudan

Suriname

Swaziland

Sweden

Switzerland

Syrian Arab Republic

Taiwan

Tajikistan

Tanzania, United Republic of

Thailand

Timor-Leste

Togo

Tonga

Trinidad and Tobago

Tunisia

Turkey

Tuvalu

Ukraine

United Arab Emirates

United States

United Kingdom

Uruguay

Uzbekistan

Vanuatu

Vatican City

Venezuela

Vietnam

Yemen

Zambia

Zimbabwe

Here is some essential information about the NZeTA for transit passengers:

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Eligible countries for a Transit NZeTA

Passport holders from a wide range of countries, listed in the provided list, are included in New Zealand's transit waiver agreement.

Citizens of these countries are required to obtain a Transit NZeTA for stopovers at Auckland International Airport.

  • Restrictions on exiting the airport:

Holders of a transit NZeTA are not permitted to leave the airport premises during their stopover.

If you have a long stopover and wish to tour the city or country, you must apply for either a Tourism NZeTA (for visa waiver countries) or a New Zealand Tourist Visa (for visa-required countries).

  • Applying for a Tourism NZeTA or New Zealand Tourist Visa:

Travelers from visa waiver countries can apply for a Tourism NZeTA online, which allows them to visit New Zealand for tourism purposes.

Travelers from visa-required countries must apply for a New Zealand Tourist Visa through the nearest New Zealand embassy or consulate.

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Applying for a New Zealand Transit NZeTA: Requirements and Application Process

Obtaining a Transit NZeTA for New Zealand is a simple and straightforward process. To apply for a Transit NZeTA, applicants need to have the following information readily available:

Eligibility requirements

Applicants must hold an eligible passport that remains valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended transit date in New Zealand.

It is important to check if your passport is eligible for the Transit NZeTA, as some countries may have specific requirements or restrictions.

Email address

Applicants should have a current and accessible email address where they will receive notifications and updates regarding their NZeTA application.

It is essential to provide a valid email address to stay informed about the status of the application.

Payment method

Applicants will need a valid credit or debit card to cover the fees associated with the Transit NZeTA application.

Accepted payment methods will be specified during the application process.

Application instructions

The application process for a New Zealand Transit NZeTA is user-friendly and easy to follow.

Detailed instructions will be provided on the official New Zealand immigration website or the dedicated NZeTA application portal.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a Transit NZeTA for New Zealand

Obtaining a Transit NZeTA for transit through New Zealand involves a simple step-by-step process. Here's a guide to help you navigate through the application procedure:

  • Gather required details:

Ensure you have the necessary personal information, including your full name, date of birth, and gender.

Have your passport details ready, including the passport number, issuing country, and expiry date.

Prepare your travel information, such as the date and time of your intended transit through Auckland International Airport.

  • Health and security questions:

Each traveler must answer a few health and security questions as part of the NZeTA application process.

Provide accurate and truthful responses to these questions.

  • Review passport details:

Carefully review the details provided in your application and ensure they match the information on your passport.

Double-check for any errors or discrepancies before submitting the application.

  • Application submission and fee calculation:

Complete the NZeTA application form, providing all the required information.

The system will automatically recognize the need for a Transit NZeTA based on your travel information and calculate the applicable fees.

  • Transit limitations and airport restrictions:

Keep in mind that transit passengers can only travel through Auckland International Airport and must stay within the transit area or aboard their aircraft.

If you intend to leave the airport and explore New Zealand, you will need to apply for an NZeTA for Tourism to enter the country.

  • Transit NZeTA limitations at other airports:

It's important to note that eligible citizens cannot transit with the NZeTA through Wellington Airport or Christchurch Airport. Transit through these airports may require alternative documentation or visas.

Essential Steps for New Zealand Transit eTA Application

To ensure a successful application process for a New Zealand Transit eTA, it is important to follow these essential steps:

Completing the eTA NZ form

Applicants must complete the New Zealand eTA form accurately and provide all the required information.

The form will include personal details, passport information, and travel dates.

Take your time to carefully fill out the form to avoid errors or omissions.

Validity of passport

Ensure that your passport remains valid for at least 3 months beyond the date(s) of your expected arrival in New Zealand.

If your passport is close to expiration, it is recommended to renew it before applying for the Transit eTA.

Payment of eTA fee

Pay the applicable eTA fee using a valid debit or credit card.

Verify that your card details are accurate and up-to-date to avoid payment issues.

Approval and download

Once your application for the New Zealand Transit eTA is approved, you will receive notification via email.

Follow the instructions provided to download your approved eTA document.

Ensure that you have a digital or printed copy of the eTA to present during your transit through Auckland International Airport.

It is also advisable to review the New Zealand eTA requirements thoroughly before starting your application to ensure that you meet all the necessary criteria. Understanding the requirements will help you provide accurate information and increase the chances of a successful application.

Most New Zealand eTA applications for transit purposes are processed within 24 to 48 business hours.

Transit Visa Requirements: When to Obtain a Transit Visa Instead of a Transit NZeTA

In certain cases, transit passengers are required to obtain a transit visa for New Zealand instead of a Transit NZeTA. Here's when you need to apply for a transit visa:

  • Ineligibility for a Transit NZeTA:

Passengers who do not meet the eligibility criteria for a Transit NZeTA are required to obtain a transit visa.

Some countries may not be covered under the Transit NZeTA waiver agreement, necessitating a transit visa application.

  • Additional supporting documentation:

The transit visa application process typically requires additional supporting documentation.

Applicants may need to provide details such as travel itinerary, proof of onward travel, and a valid passport.

  • Applying in advance:

Travelers who require a transit visa should apply well in advance of their trip.

Allowing sufficient time for processing is important to avoid any delays or complications in their travel plans.

  • Exiting the airport and exploring New Zealand:

Individuals from visa-exempt countries who wish to leave the airport and explore New Zealand must apply for a transit visa.

The transit visa grants them permission to enter the country temporarily for their desired activities.

Obtaining a Transit Visa for New Zealand: Application Process

To obtain a transit visa for New Zealand, travelers must follow the application process outlined below:

  • Complete the INZ 1019 Transit Visa Application form:

Download and complete the INZ 1019 Transit Visa Application form, ensuring that all sections are filled accurately and completely.

Provide all the required information, including personal details, travel plans, and contact information.

  • Provide a copy of the passport page:

Include a clear copy of the passport page displaying your personal information and photo.

Ensure that the copy is legible and shows all the necessary details.

  • Submit onward travel arrangements:

Include evidence of your onward travel arrangements, such as flight itineraries or tickets.

These documents should demonstrate that you will be leaving New Zealand within the designated transit period.

  • Include travel itinerary:

Provide a detailed travel itinerary, outlining your transit route and time spent in New Zealand.

Include information on your planned activities during the transit period.

Statement explaining the purpose of the trip:

Write a statement explaining the purpose of your trip to the destination country.

Clearly state your intentions and reasons for transiting through New Zealand.

  • Submitting the application:

Compile all the required documents and submit them, along with the completed application form, to the relevant New Zealand immigration authorities.

Follow the specified guidelines for submitting the application, including any specific instructions for online or offline submission.


Ensure that you have checked the eligibility for your New Zealand eTA. If you are from a Visa Waiver country then you can apply for an eTA regardless of the mode of travel (Air / Cruise). United States citizens, European citizens, Hong Kong citizens, and United Kingdom citizens can apply online for New Zealand eTA. United Kingdom residents can stay on New Zealand eTA for 6 months while others for 90 days.

Please apply for a New Zealand eTA 72 hours in advance of your flight.