As of October 1, 2019, nationals of visa-exempt* countries will have to obtain an electronic travel authorization to be admitted to New Zealand. Presentation of this ETA, called NZeTA, which can already be claimed online.
What is an NZeTA ?
NZeTA is a new security measure that the New Zealand government will implement at the borders on 1 October 2019. Some travellers, who can currently travel to New Zealand without a visa, will now need to obtain an NZeTA before leaving for New Zealand.
The NZeTA is not a visa and does not guarantee entry into New Zealand. Upon arrival in New Zealand, travellers must always meet all existing entry requirements, including a return or continuation ticket, a good faith visitor and good health.
If you do not have an NZeTA when you check in for a flight or cruise, you will not be allowed to board. You may be able to apply for registration, but if the country’s immigration authorities (INZ) cannot process your application on time or if your application is refused, you will not be allowed to travel to New Zealand.
* Andorra, Argentina, Argentina, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong (residents with Hong Kong SAR or British national passport overseas), Hungary, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, United Arab Emirates, USA, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macao, Malaysia, Malta, Mauritius, Mexico, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Oman, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Czech Republic, Romania, San Marino, Seychelles, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Kingdom, Uruguay and Vatican.