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Special Travel for Australian Citizens

Complete information about visiting New Zealand as an Australian citizen - Special Trans-Tasman benefits and travel requirements

Do Australians Need NZeTA?

No, Australian citizens do NOT need an NZeTA to visit New Zealand. Thanks to the unique Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement between Australia and New Zealand, Australians enjoy special visa-free travel privileges. However, you must pay the International Visitor Levy (IVL) before traveling.

Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement Explained

The Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement is a special agreement between Australia and New Zealand that allows citizens of both countries to travel freely between the two nations. This unique arrangement has been in place for decades and reflects the close relationship between Australia and New Zealand. It's one of the most liberal travel agreements in the world.

What Australian Citizens Can Do Under Trans-Tasman:

Enter New Zealand without a visa

Australian citizens can enter New Zealand without applying for a visa or NZeTA

Stay Indefinitely

Unlike other travelers with tourist visas limited to 90 days, Australians can stay as long as they wish

Work and Study

Full permission to work and study in New Zealand without separate work or student visas

Reside in New Zealand

Australian citizens can establish residency and live permanently in New Zealand

This arrangement is exceptionally generous compared to most countries around the world. While tourists from other nations need visas or electronic travel authorities, Australians enjoy freedom of movement similar to traveling between Australian states and territories.

International Visitor Levy (IVL) for Australians

Important: While you don't need an NZeTA, you MUST pay the International Visitor Levy (IVL) before traveling to New Zealand. This is a mandatory environmental conservation fee.

IVL Cost

NZD $35

For most visitors including Australians

Approximately USD $21

IVL Validity

24 Months

Valid for 2 years from payment date

Multiple visits allowed during validity period

How to Pay the IVL:

Visit the official New Zealand Immigration website (immigration.govt.nz)
Navigate to the IVL payment page or use the dedicated IVL portal
Enter your passport information and travel dates
Pay NZD $35 using your credit or debit card
Receive your IVL receipt via email - keep this for your records
You're ready to travel! No IVL certificate is needed at immigration

The IVL is collected electronically, so there's no physical document to carry. Immigration officials will verify payment electronically when you enter New Zealand.

Who is Eligible for Trans-Tasman Travel?

Eligible:

Australian citizens

Australian permanent residents

Special category visa holders (in some cases)

May Need NZeTA:

Non-Australian citizens visiting New Zealand

Visitors from most other countries

Those not covered by Trans-Tasman arrangement

Requirements for Australian Travelers

Valid Australian Passport

Your Australian passport must be:

Valid and not expired
In good physical condition
With clearly readable pages and chip (if biometric)

International Visitor Levy Payment

Pay the NZD $35 International Visitor Levy online before traveling. This is the only mandatory payment for Australian visitors.

Return or Onward Ticket

While not always required, airlines may ask for proof of return or onward travel. Having a ticket simplifies check-in.

NZeTA Required for Visitors from Other Countries

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United States

NZeTA Guide for US Citizens

Learn more

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Canada

NZeTA Guide for Canadian Citizens

Learn more

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United Kingdom

NZeTA Guide for UK Citizens

Learn more

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I visit New Zealand without paying IVL?

No. The International Visitor Levy is mandatory for all visitors from outside New Zealand, including Australians. It supports environmental conservation and tourism infrastructure.

Can Australian permanent residents also travel visa-free?

Yes. Australian permanent residents enjoy the same Trans-Tasman Travel privileges as Australian citizens, though they still need to pay the IVL.

How long can I stay in New Zealand as an Australian?

Technically indefinitely for tourism or business purposes. However, if you plan to stay long-term, you should consider applying for permanent residency or a visa.

Do I need to apply for IVL in advance?

Yes. It's recommended to pay the IVL online before your trip. You can pay it up to 30 days before arrival or when planning your travel.

Can my Australian children travel visa-free?

Yes. Australian children with valid Australian passports can travel under the Trans-Tasman arrangement. The IVL must still be paid for each person.

Ready to Explore New Zealand?

Pay your International Visitor Levy and prepare for an unforgettable Australian-friendly New Zealand adventure

Pay IVL Now