NZeTA - Electronic Travel Authority
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NZeTA for US Citizens

Complete guide for American travelers visiting New Zealand - Requirements, fees, and application process

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Quick Facts for US Citizens

NZeTA Required
All US passport holders need an NZeTA before traveling to New Zealand
Valid 2 Years
Multiple entries allowed over a 2-year period for tourism and business
24-72 Hours
Regular processing time (Express: 4-12 hours)
90 Day Stays
Stay up to 90 days per visit for tourism or business purposes

Do US Citizens Need an NZeTA?

Yes, all US passport holders must obtain an NZeTA before traveling to New Zealand. Since October 2019, the New Zealand government requires American citizens to apply for an Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) regardless of whether they're visiting for tourism, business, or transit.

When Americans Need NZeTA:

  • Tourism: Vacations, sightseeing, visiting friends or family
  • Business: Meetings, conferences, short-term business activities
  • Transit: Connecting through New Zealand airports to another destination
  • Cruise Ships: Arriving in New Zealand by cruise ship

NZeTA Requirements for US Citizens

Valid US Passport

Your US passport must be:

  • Valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended stay in New Zealand
  • In good condition with readable machine-readable zone
  • Not damaged, torn, or water-damaged
Email Address

A valid email address where you'll receive your NZeTA approval confirmation. Make sure to check your spam folder if you don't see the email within 72 hours.

Payment Method

Credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) to pay the NZeTA fee securely online.

Travel Information

You'll need to provide:

  • Expected arrival date in New Zealand
  • Address where you'll be staying in New Zealand
  • Purpose of visit (tourism, business, or transit)

NZeTA Fees for US Citizens

All fees are in USD and include both the NZeTA processing fee and the $100 International Visitor Levy (IVL)

Tourist NZeTA
Regular Processing$135
24-72 hours processing
Valid for 2 years
90 days per visit
Express Processing$170
4-12 hours processing
Valid for 2 years
90 days per visit
Transit NZeTA
Regular Processing$85
24-72 hours processing
Valid for 2 years
24 hours transit time
Express Processing$105
4-12 hours processing
Valid for 2 years
24 hours transit time

How US Citizens Apply for NZeTA

Simple 3-step online application process designed for American travelers

1
Complete Online Form
Fill out the secure application with your US passport details, personal information, and travel plans. Takes about 10 minutes. No paperwork or embassy visits required.
2
Pay Application Fee
Pay securely using your US credit or debit card. Choose regular processing (24-72 hours) or express (4-12 hours) based on your travel timeline.
3
Receive NZeTA Approval
Get your approved NZeTA via email. It's electronically linked to your passport - no printing needed. You're ready to fly to New Zealand!
Start Your NZeTA Application

Secure application • Fast approval • 24/7 support for US travelers

Tips for American Travelers to New Zealand

Apply Early
Don't wait until the last minute. Apply at least 3 days before your flight. Most Americans get approved within 24 hours, but processing can take up to 72 hours.
Check Passport Validity
Your US passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from New Zealand. Renew your passport if it's expiring soon.
Keep Email Confirmation
Save your NZeTA approval email. While you don't need to print it, having it accessible on your phone can be helpful at check-in and immigration.
Return Ticket Required
Immigration officers may ask for proof of onward travel. Have your return or onward ticket ready to show you're leaving New Zealand within 90 days.
Declare Everything
New Zealand has strict biosecurity laws. Declare all food, plants, and outdoor equipment. Failure to declare can result in heavy fines.
Prepare for Customs
Be ready to show proof of sufficient funds (about NZD $1,000 per month or $400 if accommodation is prepaid) and accommodation details.

US Citizens Arriving by Cruise or Cargo Ship

Why US Citizens on Cruise Ships Need NZeTA

Whether you're boarding a cruise ship in the United States and traveling to New Zealand, or flying to join a cruise in New Zealand, you must obtain an NZeTA. The New Zealand Immigration Service treats all arrivals - whether by air, sea, or land - the same way. Your NZeTA must be approved and electronically linked to your passport before your vessel arrives in a New Zealand port.

Timeline for Cruise Passengers

We recommend American cruise passengers apply for their NZeTA at least 7-10 days before boarding their ship. This ensures sufficient processing time for regular applications (24-72 hours). If you're booking a cruise last-minute, use our express processing option (4-12 hours) to get approved quickly. Most American cruise passengers apply for their NZeTA 3-4 weeks in advance to ensure smooth departure from their home port and peace of mind before traveling.

Cargo Ship and Freighter Passengers

US citizens traveling on cargo ships or freighter services to New Zealand also require NZeTA approval. These alternative shipping options are popular with American adventurers seeking unique travel experiences. The NZeTA requirements remain identical - you cannot board the vessel without prior electronic travel authorization linked to your passport. Contact us at our support team if you have specific questions about non-commercial vessel arrivals or specialized shipping scenarios.

Learn More About Cruise & Cargo Arrivals

FAQ for US Citizens

Can US citizens get NZeTA on arrival in New Zealand?
No, you cannot get an NZeTA on arrival. US citizens must apply online before traveling. Airlines will check your NZeTA status before allowing you to board your flight to New Zealand.
How long can Americans stay in New Zealand with NZeTA?
US citizens can stay up to 90 days per visit with an NZeTA. The NZeTA is valid for 2 years, allowing multiple 90-day visits. If you need to stay longer than 90 days, you'll need to apply for a visitor visa.
Do children with US passports need their own NZeTA?
Yes, every US traveler needs their own NZeTA, including infants and children. Each person must have an individual NZeTA linked to their own passport, regardless of age.
Can I work in New Zealand with an NZeTA?
No, the NZeTA is only for tourism, business visits (meetings, conferences), and transit. You cannot work or study long-term with an NZeTA. For work purposes, you need a work visa from Immigration New Zealand.
What if I have a criminal record?
You must declare any criminal convictions in your NZeTA application. New Zealand immigration will assess your application individually. Serious convictions may result in NZeTA denial, and you may need to apply for a visa instead.
Is travel insurance required for US citizens?
While not mandatory for NZeTA approval, we strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance for Americans visiting New Zealand. US health insurance typically doesn't cover overseas medical expenses.

Ready to Visit New Zealand?

Join thousands of Americans who visit New Zealand every year. Apply for your NZeTA now and get approved within 24-72 hours.

Apply for NZeTA Now

Fast, secure, and hassle-free application process