Do US citizens need a New Zealand tourist visa?

This page explains in detail how to apply for an NZeTA, the documents required, the fees to be expected, and the processing time. You will also find out about the validity of the NZeTA, the authorised length of stay, and the procedure to follow if your application is rejected or if there are any problems with your application. Finally, we'll look at New Zealand's security for US citizens and answer frequently asked questions about the application process for children and special cases. With this NZeTA, US citizens can stay for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. It is valid for 2 years, with multiple entries authorised. The application process is simple, done entirely online, and generally takes less than 72 hours to process.

Do US citizens need a New Zealand visa?

• Requirement: Yes, US citizens must obtain an NZeTA to enter New Zealand, even for short-term stays.
• e-Visa: this is an electronic travel authorization (NZeTA), which can be applied for online before departure.
• Price: the NZeTA costs around EUR 69, including a required tourist tax (IVL).
• Processing time : the standard processing time is 72 hours, but it is often quicker, around 24 hours.
• Period of validity: the NZeTA is valid for 2 years and allows multiple entries with a maximum stay of 90 days for each visit.

→ New Zealand visa for US citizens ←

How do I apply for an eVisa NZeTA from the United States?

Applying for an NZeTA is a quick and easy online process for US citizens wishing to travel to New Zealand for tourism, business or transit. Here is a full description of the process to help you prepare for your trip.

• Filling in the online form: the first step is to access the official NZeTA website or a private service provider, or to use a dedicated mobile application. The form asks for personal information (surname, first name, gender, date of birth), passport details (number, expiry date, country of issue), and information about your trip, such as the planned date of arrival and the purpose of the visit (tourism, transit, etc.).
• Eligibility check: during the application process, you will have to answer security questions about your criminal record, your state of health (in particular the absence of contagious diseases) and any previous expulsions from other countries.
• Payment of fees: once you have completed the form, you will be required to pay the NZeTA fees and the IVL (International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy). Payment is made by credit or debit card, and the total amount is approximately EUR 69 to 89, depending on the service provider used.
• Receipt of authorization: after payment, your request will be processed. You will usually receive a response within 72 hours, although in some cases the process is faster, with approval in less than 24 hours. Once approved, the NZeTA is electronically linked to your passport. You do not need to print any documents, but it is advisable to keep an electronic copy in case of verification.

Documents required by Americans to apply for an NZeTA tourist visa

US citizens will need to provide the following documents when applying:

• A passport valid for at least three months beyond the date of departure from New Zealand.
• A digital photo that meets the size and format requirements of the New Zealand authorities.
• Details of their itinerary, including dates and details of their return flight.
• A credit or debit card for payment of fees.

What is the price of the NZeTA eVisa for US citizens?

The cost of the NZeTA for US citizens is generally between EUR 69 and EUR 89, which includes the processing fee and the NZD 100 IVL tourist tax. The price may vary depending on the processing options (standard or express) and the service provider.

The online application process is designed to be simple, allowing you to complete and submit your application from home or from a mobile device, in a matter of minutes.

NZeTA eVisa processing times for US citizens

NZeTA processing for US citizens is generally fast. The average time for approval is 72 hours (3 working days). However, it can be shorter in most cases, with a response obtained in less than 24 hours.

For urgent applications or exceptional situations, such as additional criminal record checks or medical history, the time may exceed the usual 3 days.

It is therefore advisable to submit the application at least 10 days before the date of departure to avoid any unexpected delays.

Visa duration and validity for US citizens

The NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) allows US citizens to visit New Zealand for a specific period of time for strictly tourist or short-term business purposes. Here are the essential details concerning the authorised length of stay and the validity of this authorization.

Number of entries into New Zealand from the USA

With an NZeTA, US citizens can enjoy multiple entries into New Zealand during the visa's validity period, which is 2 years. This means that it is possible to enter and leave the country several times without having to re-apply for a new NZeTA for each visit, as long as the validity period has not expired.

How long can I stay in New Zealand as a US citizen?

The maximum authorised stay for US citizens is 90 consecutive days per entry. This means that on each visit, you can stay for up to three months without leaving the country. However, over a 12-month period, the cumulative total of all your stays in New Zealand must not exceed 6 months.

If you plan to stay longer than the 90 days allowed by the NZeTA, you will need to apply for a specific visa, such as a visitor visa for longer stays.

Renewing your NZeTA visa

The NZeTA is valid for 2 years, and cannot be extended. This means that after this period has expired, you will need to apply for a new NZeTA if you wish to return to New Zealand. However, the application is quick and easy, and can be made online using the same criteria.

If you need to stay beyond the 90 days authorised, you will need to apply for a visitor's visa or another type of visa appropriate to the nature of your stay (study, work, etc.).

NZeTA visa rejected for US citizens

Although the NZeTA is generally easy to obtain for US citizens, some applications may be rejected. Here are the most common reasons for refusal, and the remedies available in the event of rejection.

Common reasons for rejection

• Incorrect or incomplete information: one of the most frequent reasons for refusal is the submission of incorrect or incomplete data on the application form. Errors in personal information or passport details can result in rejection.
• Criminal record: if a US citizen has a criminal record, including serious or recent convictions, this may result in the NZeTA being rejected. New Zealand authorities are strict about the admissibility of visitors with criminal records.
• Health problems: applicants with serious health problems or contagious diseases that could pose a threat to public safety may be refused entry. Medical information may be requested in certain cases.
• Unauthorised overstay: if you have already overstayed on previous visits to New Zealand, this may adversely affect your future applications.

Procedure in the event of a refusal

If you are rejected by the NZeTA, you will receive an explanation by e-mail. It is possible to correct the errors in your original application and submit a new application, or to provide additional evidence to challenge the decision if you believe it has been wrongly made.

If you are still rejected, you should then consider applying for a standard visitor visa, which involves a more rigorous process but may offer more flexibility for those who do not meet the NZeTA's eligibility criteria.

Is New Zealand safe for US citizens?

New Zealand is considered one of the safest destinations in the world for travellers, including US citizens. It has a very low crime rate, and violence is rare in tourist areas. What's more, the country has an excellent health infrastructure and a well-preserved natural environment, making it an ideal place for carefree travel.

Travellers should nevertheless take a few general precautions. For example, although the country is safe, it is advisable to always take care of personal belongings, especially in large cities such as Auckland or Wellington, where petty theft can occur.

In terms of natural hazards, New Zealand is prone to seismic phenomena, such as earthquakes, due to its geographical location on the Pacific Ring of Fire. However, the infrastructure is well adapted to these risks, and the local authorities are well prepared to deal with emergencies.