When should I apply for the NZeTA?

Wondering how to get your NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) quickly and easily before you set off to explore beautiful New Zealand? We explain what you need to know about applying for your NZeTA, when to do it and how many days you can expect a response.

What is NZeTA and why do you need it?

The NZeTA is an electronic travel authorisation that was introduced by the New Zealand government in October 2019. It is compulsory for citizens of visa-exempt countries wishing to travel to New Zealand for tourist, transit or short-term stays. The main aim of this measure is to strengthen border security and simplify the process of entering the country for eligible travellers.

How do I apply for an NZeTA?

The NZeTA application can be made online via internet or using a dedicated mobile app. Both methods are simple, quick and require no physical documents to be sent. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Fill in the application form : You will need to provide personal information such as your full name, date of birth, nationality, passport number, contact details and travel details.
2. Pay the application fee and IVL : You will need to pay a fee for processing the NZeTA application and for International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL). Payments can be made by credit card or via PayPal.
3. Check your e-mail address: Once payment has been made, you will receive a confirmation e-mail. You will need to click on the link contained in this e-mail to finalise your request.
4. Waiting for a response: The time delay varies depending on the volume of requests and the complexity of each case, but generally you can expect a response within a few days.

When should you submit your NZeTA application?

It is recommended that you apply for your NZeTA at least 72 hours before you leave for New Zealand. However, it may be a good idea to apply in advance to avoid unnecessary stress due to possible problems or longer-than-expected processing times.

Processing and response times: What to expect?

Although most NZeTA applications are processed within just a few hours, it is important to note that it can also take up to 72 hours. Therefore, it is essential to take this into account when planning your trip.

If you have submitted your application correctly and provided all the necessary information, you should receive a positive response within a reasonable time. However, in some cases, additional checks may be required, which may extend the processing time.

What should I do if my NZeTA application is refused?

If your NZeTA application is refused, don't panic! The first thing to do is to check whether you have made a mistake when filling in the application form or whether incorrect information has been provided. If this is the case, you can submit a new application with the corrected information.

If your application has been refused for any other reason, we advise you to contact the New Zealand embassy or consulate in your country to obtain further information and possibly explore other options for obtaining travel authorisation.

Getting your NZeTA for travel to New Zealand has never been easier thanks to the quick and easy online process. Just make sure you plan ahead and take into account processing times to make the most of your stay in this beautiful country.