The New Zealand eTA for French citizens

Updated on May 27, 2023 | New Zealand eTA

New Zealand is a popular tourist destination for French citizens due to its beautiful landscapes, diversified fauna, and kind people. If you are a French citizen visiting New Zealand, you may be required to obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before entering the country. We will explain what a New Zealand eTA is, why French citizens need one, and how to apply for one in this article.

What Is a New Zealand eTA for French Citizens and What Does It Do?

A New Zealand eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is an electronic visa waiver that French citizens need to obtain before traveling to New Zealand for short-term stays of up to 90 days. The eTA is a digital document that is linked to the traveler's passport and is obtained online through the New Zealand Immigration website.

The eTA for French citizens allows them to enter and travel around New Zealand for tourism, business, or transit purposes. It is a mandatory requirement for all French citizens who are traveling to New Zealand by air or cruise ship, including those who are only transiting through New Zealand on their way to another destination.

The eTA also provides additional security screening for travelers before they arrive in New Zealand, which enhances the country's border security. This process helps to ensure that visitors to New Zealand are not a threat to national security, and that they are not bringing any harmful substances or items into the country.

French citizens can apply for a New Zealand eTA online by completing an application form and providing their personal details, travel information, and passport details. They will also need to pay the eTA application fee and provide evidence of their onward travel plans, such as return tickets or a travel itinerary.

Once approved, the eTA will be electronically linked to the traveler's passport and will be valid for multiple entries into New Zealand for up to two years. However, each stay in New Zealand must not exceed 90 days.

The New Zealand eTA for French citizens is a mandatory electronic visa waiver that allows them to enter and travel around New Zealand for up to 90 days for tourism, business, or transit purposes. It enhances the country's border security and provides an efficient way for French citizens to obtain permission to visit New Zealand.

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.

Do French Citizens Need an eTA for New Zealand?

Yes, French citizens need an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) to enter New Zealand for short-term stays of up to 90 days. The eTA is a mandatory requirement for all French citizens who are traveling to New Zealand by air or cruise ship, including those who are only transiting through New Zealand on their way to another destination.

The New Zealand eTA for French citizens is an electronic visa waiver that can be obtained online through the New Zealand Immigration website. French citizens will need to complete an application form and provide their personal details, travel information, and passport details. They will also need to pay the eTA application fee and provide evidence of their onward travel plans, such as return tickets or a travel itinerary.

The eTA for French citizens allows them to enter and travel around New Zealand for tourism, business, or transit purposes. It is valid for multiple entries into New Zealand for up to two years, but each stay must not exceed 90 days. The eTA also enhances the country's border security and ensures that visitors to New Zealand are not a threat to national security, and that they are not bringing any harmful substances or items into the country.

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We previously covered Travel Guide to Nelson, New Zealand.

New Zealand eTA Requirements for French Citizens

French citizens who wish to travel to New Zealand for short-term stays of up to 90 days will need to meet the following eTA requirements:

  1. A valid passport: French citizens must have a valid passport that is machine-readable and has at least three (3) months of validity remaining beyond the intended departure date from New Zealand.
  2. Application form: French citizens must complete the eTA application form online through the New Zealand Immigration website.
  3. Personal details: French citizens must provide their personal details, including full name, date of birth, and contact information.
  4. Travel information: French citizens must provide their travel information, including their itinerary, travel dates, and details of their accommodation in New Zealand.
  5. Proof of onward travel: French citizens must provide evidence of their onward travel plans, such as return tickets or a travel itinerary.
  6. Payment of eTA fee: French citizens must pay the eTA application fee online using a valid credit card.
  7. Health and character requirements: French citizens must declare any criminal convictions or medical conditions that may impact their ability to travel to New Zealand.

It is important to note that French citizens who have previously been denied entry to New Zealand or have been deported from any country may not be eligible for the eTA and should contact the New Zealand embassy for further guidance.

French citizens must meet the above eTA requirements to obtain an eTA for New Zealand. The eTA is a mandatory requirement for all French citizens who are traveling to New Zealand by air or cruise ship and allows them to enter and travel around New Zealand for tourism, business, or transit purposes.

Application Steps to Obtain a New Zealand eTA from France

French citizens can apply for a New Zealand eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) online by following these steps:

  1. Visit the New Zealand eVisa website: French citizens can access the eTA application form through the New Zealand eVisa website.
  2. Fill out the eTA application form: French citizens will need to provide their personal details, travel information, and passport details on the application form.
  3. Pay the eTA application fee: French citizens must pay the eTA application fee online using a valid credit card. 
  4. Submit the application: French citizens will need to review and submit their application form online.
  5. Wait for approval: The processing time for the eTA application may take up to 72 hours, although in many cases it is processed much sooner. French citizens will receive an email confirming their eTA approval or rejection.
  6. Travel to New Zealand: Once approved, French citizens can travel to New Zealand and present their eTA to border officials upon arrival.

It is important for French citizens to ensure that all information provided on their eTA application form is accurate and up-to-date. Any discrepancies or errors could result in delays or even rejection of the eTA application.

French citizens can obtain a New Zealand eTA by filling out the online application form, paying the eTA application fee, and waiting for approval. The eTA is a mandatory requirement for all French citizens who are traveling to New Zealand by air or cruise ship for short-term stays of up to 90 days.

READ MORE:
From the 1st October 2019, visitors from Visa Free countries also known as Visa Waiver countries must apply on https://www.visa-new-zealand.org for an online electronic Travel authorisation in the form of New Zealand Visitor Visa. Learn about New Zealand Tourist Visa information for all Visitors seeking short term travel to New Zealand.

How Long Does it Take to Process a New Zealand eTA from France?

The processing time for a New Zealand eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) application from France may take up to 72 hours. However, in many cases, the eTA is processed much sooner and applicants receive a response within a few hours of submitting their application.

It is important for French citizens to submit their eTA application as early as possible, ideally at least 72 hours before their planned departure to New Zealand. This will allow sufficient time for the eTA to be processed and for any issues or concerns to be addressed.

In some cases, the processing of the eTA application may be delayed due to issues such as incomplete or inaccurate information provided on the application form, or if additional information or documentation is required. In such cases, the applicant may be contacted by the New Zealand Immigration Service for further clarification or documentation, which may further delay the processing time.

In summary, the processing time for a New Zealand eTA application from France may take up to 72 hours, although in many cases it is processed much sooner. French citizens are advised to submit their eTA application as early as possible and ensure that all information provided on the application form is accurate and up-to-date to avoid any delays or complications.

Application Steps:

Here are the step-by-step application steps to obtain a New Zealand eTA for French citizens:

  1. Visit the New Zealand eTA website.
  2. Click on the "Apply Now" button.
  3. Select "France" as your country of citizenship and "New Zealand" as your destination country.
  4. Complete the eTA application form. This includes providing personal information such as your full name, date of birth, and passport details.
  5. Answer the security questions and declare any criminal convictions or medical conditions if applicable.
  6. Pay the eTA application fee using a credit card. 
  7. Submit your application form and wait for the eTA to be processed. You will receive an email notification once your application has been approved.
  8. Print out a copy of your eTA confirmation and bring it with you when you travel to New Zealand.

It is important to ensure that all information provided on the eTA application form is accurate and up to date. Any errors or discrepancies may result in delays or rejection of the eTA application. French citizens are advised to apply for their eTA as early as possible, ideally at least 72 hours before their planned departure to New Zealand.

What are the ports of entry into New Zealand for French citizens with a New Zealand eTA?

French citizens with a New Zealand eTA can enter New Zealand through any of the following ports:

  • Auckland International Airport
  • Wellington International Airport
  • Christchurch International Airport
  • Queenstown International Airport

READ MORE:

For short stays, vacations, or professional visitor activities, New Zealand now has a new entrance requirement known as the eTA New Zealand Visa. All non-citizens must possess a current visa or digital travel authorization to enter New Zealand. Apply For NZ eTA with the Online New Zealand Visa Application.

Details of French Embassy in New Zealand

The French Embassy in New Zealand is in the capital city of Wellington. Here are the details of the embassy:

Address: 34-42 Manners Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011, New Zealand

Phone: +64 4-384 2555

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://nz.ambafrance.org/

The French Embassy in New Zealand is responsible for promoting French interests in New Zealand and fostering diplomatic relations between the two countries. French citizens in New Zealand can contact the embassy for consular services such as passport renewals, emergency travel documents, and assistance in case of emergencies. The embassy also provides visa services for New Zealand citizens who wish to visit France for tourism, business, or other purposes. Additionally, the embassy hosts cultural events and exchanges to promote French culture and language in New Zealand.

Details Of New Zealand Embassy In France

The New Zealand Embassy in France is located in the city of Paris. Here are the details of the embassy:

Address: 103 rue de Grenelle, 75007 Paris, France

Phone: +33 1 45 01 43 43

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/countries-and-regions/europe/france/new-zealand-embassy/

The New Zealand Embassy in France is responsible for promoting New Zealand's interests in France and fostering diplomatic relations between the two countries. French citizens in France can contact the embassy for consular services such as passport renewals, emergency travel documents, and assistance in case of emergencies. The embassy also provides visa services for French citizens who wish to visit New Zealand for tourism, business, or other purposes. Additionally, the embassy hosts cultural events and exchanges to promote New Zealand culture and language in France.

The New Zealand Embassy in France is also accredited to other countries in the region, including Andorra, Monaco, and Portugal. As such, the embassy provides consular services and promotes New Zealand's interests in these countries as well. French citizens traveling to any of these countries can contact the embassy for assistance and information.

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So you're arranging an excursion to New Zealand or Aotearoa aka Land of Long White Cloud. Learn about Travel Guide for First Time Visitors to New Zealand

What are some of the popular tourist destinations in New Zealand for French citizens?

Some of the popular tourist destinations in New Zealand for French citizens include:

  1. Milford Sound: Located in the southwestern corner of the South Island, Milford Sound is one of the most famous natural attractions in New Zealand. The fjord is surrounded by towering mountains, cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear waters that are home to an abundance of marine life, such as seals, dolphins and penguins. Visitors can explore the fjord on a boat cruise, kayak, or by taking a scenic flight over the area.
  2. Bay of Islands: Situated in the subtropical Northland region, the Bay of Islands is a popular destination for water sports and marine activities. The area is home to 144 islands, secluded bays, and pristine beaches, and is rich in Maori culture and history. Visitors can go on a dolphin watching tour, take a boat trip to the famous Hole in the Rock, or explore the historic towns of Russell and Paihia.
  3. Franz Josef Glacier: Located on the west coast of the South Island, Franz Josef Glacier is a stunning glacier that is easily accessible for visitors. The glacier is surrounded by rainforest and offers a range of activities such as glacier hikes, ice climbing, and helicopter tours.
  4. Tongariro National Park: Situated in the central North Island, Tongariro National Park is home to three active volcanoes and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of the volcanic landscape.
  5. Abel Tasman National Park: Located at the top of the South Island, Abel Tasman National Park is renowned for its golden sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and coastal forests. Visitors can explore the park on foot, by kayak, or by taking a scenic boat trip.
  6. Rotorua: Situated in the central North Island, Rotorua is famous for its geothermal activity and Maori culture. Visitors can experience the geothermal wonders at Te Puia, Wai-O-Tapu, and Hell's Gate, and learn about the Maori culture and history at the Tamaki Maori Village.
  7. Queenstown: Located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu in the South Island, Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of New Zealand. The town offers a range of adrenaline-fueled activities such as bungee jumping, skydiving, and jet boating, as well as more relaxed options such as scenic flights, boat trips, and wine tours.
  8. Fiordland National Park: Situated in the southwestern corner of the South Island, Fiordland National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the famous Milford and Doubtful Sounds. Visitors can explore the park on foot, by boat, or by taking a scenic flight.
  9. Mount Cook National Park: Located in the central South Island, Mount Cook National Park is home to New Zealand's highest peak, Mount Cook. The park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and glacier walks.
  10. Waitomo Glowworm Caves: Situated in the central North Island, the Waitomo Glowworm Caves are a must-see attraction in New Zealand. Visitors can take a boat trip through the underground caves and witness the magical glowworms that illuminate the cave walls.

READ MORE:

Many of New Zealand’s natural wonders are free to visit. All you need to do is plan a budget trip to New Zealand using affordable transport, food, accommodation, and other smart tips that we give in this travel guide to New Zealand on a budget. Learn more at Budget Travel Guide to New Zealand

What Other Countries Are Permitted With The New Zealand Evisa?

New Zealand does not offer an eVisa, but it does offer an electronic travel authority (eTA) for citizens of eligible countries. Here are the countries that are permitted to apply for a New Zealand eTA:

Andorra

Argentina

Austria

Bahrain

Belgium

Brazil

Brunei

Bulgaria

Canada

Chile

Croatia

Cyprus

Czech Republic

Denmark

Estonia

Finland

France

Germany

Greece

Hong Kong (SAR)

Hungary

Iceland

Ireland

Israel

Italy

Japan

Kuwait

Latvia

Liechtenstein

Lithuania

Luxembourg

Macau (SAR)

Malaysia

Malta

Mauritius

Mexico

Monaco

Netherlands

Norway

Oman

Poland

Portugal

Qatar

Romania

San Marino

Saudi Arabia

Seychelles

Singapore

Slovakia

Slovenia

South Korea

Spain

Sweden

Switzerland

Taiwan

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

United States of America

Uruguay

Vatican City

It's important to note that citizens of some of these countries may be exempt from obtaining an eTA, depending on their circumstances. For example, citizens of Australia and some Pacific Island nations are exempt from the eTA requirement. Additionally, citizens of some countries may be required to obtain a visa instead of an eTA. Therefore, it's always best to check the current visa requirements before traveling to New Zealand.

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Before you go out camping in New Zealand, here are a few things that you should know beforehand, to have an unforgettable experience. Learn more at Tourist Guide to Camping in New Zealand.

Conclusion

To summarize, French citizens visiting New Zealand for vacation, business, or transit must get a New Zealand eTA. The application procedure is straightforward, and it may be completed online at the official New Zealand Immigration website. Once approved, you will receive your eTA through email, which you should print and bring with you to New Zealand.

It's critical to understand the eTA's terms, which include the maximum length of stay, the purpose of travel, and the obligation to carry a printed copy of the eTA with you. If your eTA application is denied, you may be able to resubmit it with updated or rectified information, or apply for an alternative type of eTA. Generally, the New Zealand eTA facilitates French citizens' short-term visits to New Zealand. You can have a hassle-free travel experience to one of the world's most beautiful and unique nations by following the application criteria and knowing the eTA conditions.

FAQs

What is a New Zealand eTA?

A New Zealand Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement for foreign nationals who are visa waiver eligible and intend to visit New Zealand for tourism, transit or business purposes for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

Who needs a New Zealand eTA?

French citizens who are travelling to New Zealand for tourism, transit or business purposes for up to 90 days in any 180-day period and hold a valid passport are required to apply for a New Zealand eTA.

How to apply for a New Zealand eTA?

French citizens can apply for a New Zealand eTA online through the official New Zealand immigration website. The application process is simple and involves providing personal information, travel details, and paying the applicable fee. Applicants must also meet certain health and character requirements.

What are the requirements for a New Zealand eTA?

To be eligible for a New Zealand eTA, French citizens must have a valid passport, be in good health, and have no criminal convictions. They must also provide details of their travel plans and prove that they have sufficient funds to support their stay in New Zealand.

How long does it take to process a New Zealand eTA application?

The processing time for a New Zealand eTA application can vary, but it generally takes around 1-3 business days. However, it is recommended that applicants apply for their eTA at least 72 hours before their departure to allow for any unforeseen delays.

What is the validity of a New Zealand eTA?

A New Zealand eTA is valid for multiple entries into New Zealand for up to 2 years or until the expiry date of the passport used to apply for the eTA, whichever comes first. However, each visit cannot exceed 90 days in any 180-day period.

Can French people renew or extend their eTA with New Zealand?

No, French citizens cannot renew or extend their eTA with New Zealand. If your eTA expires, you must apply for a new one if you wish to visit New Zealand again.

What conditions are there for renewing or extending a New Zealand eTA?

There are no defined conditions for renewing or extending a New Zealand eTA because it cannot be renewed or extended. If your circumstances have changed since your last eTA application, such as your passport expiring or a criminal conviction, you must give updated information in your current application.

How do I renew or extend my eTA in New Zealand?

To apply for a new New Zealand eTA, go to the official New Zealand eTA website and fill out a new application.

You must supply your personal and travel information, answer some health and criminal history questions, and pay the eTA processing cost. You should also check that your passport is still valid and will be valid for at least three months after you leave New Zealand.

To account for processing time, it is recommended that you apply for your new eTA well in advance of your anticipated trip date. A new eTA application is typically processed within 72 hours, although it may take longer if more information is required. 


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.