Frequently Asked Questions

Most NZeTA applications are approved within 72 hours of submission. Many applications receive approval within 24 hours or even instantly. However, immigration officials may request additional information for some applications, which could extend processing time. It's recommended to apply well in advance of your travel date to allow for any unexpected delays. Once approved, your NZeTA is valid for 2 years.

Your approved NZeTA is valid for 2 years from the date of approval. During this period, you can make multiple entries to New Zealand. You can stay in New Zealand for up to 6 months in any 12-month period. This means if you enter in January, you can stay until June maximum. If you leave and re-enter, your new 6-month period restarts from your re-entry date.

Yes, you must apply for NZeTA from outside New Zealand before you arrive. The application is designed to be completed online from anywhere with internet access. UK citizens can apply from their home, office, or anywhere internationally. You cannot apply once you've arrived in New Zealand. The online application system is available 24/7 from anywhere in the world.

You need minimal documents for NZeTA online application. Have your valid British passport details ready, including passport number, issue date, and expiry date. You'll also need a valid email address and an international payment card (credit or debit). Unlike traditional visas, you don't need to submit physical documents. The entire process is digital, making it incredibly convenient for UK citizens.

Yes, children can apply for NZeTA if they have their own valid British passport. Each person, regardless of age, needs their own travel authorization. Parents or guardians can complete the application on behalf of children. Infants who don't yet have passports will need to obtain one first before applying. Family travel is easier with the quick NZeTA online approval process.

Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in New Zealand and at least 3 months beyond. If your passport expires before this period, you'll need to renew it before applying for NZeTA. Your approved NZeTA is tied to your passport number, so if you change passports, you'll need to apply for a new NZeTA. Plan ahead if your passport renewal is due soon.

No, you cannot extend your stay beyond 6 months in any 12-month period with NZeTA. The electronic travel authority is fixed at this maximum duration. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a different visa type before your current authorization expires. Options include residence visas, work visas, or student visas depending on your circumstances. Plan your trip duration accordingly.

If rejected, you'll receive an explanation of why your application was denied. Common reasons include criminal convictions, security concerns, or incorrect information. You have the right to appeal the decision or apply for a traditional visitor visa instead. Contact New Zealand immigration authorities for guidance on your specific situation. The rejection doesn't prevent future applications, but you'll need to address the underlying issue.

No, printing is not necessary. Your NZeTA is electronically linked to your passport in New Zealand's immigration database. You'll receive an email confirmation with your approval details, but you only need your passport for entry. Printing the email confirmation may be helpful for your records, but immigration staff will look up your approval in their system using your passport number.

Once approved, your NZeTA cannot be cancelled or modified. However, you can simply choose not to use it. If your circumstances change significantly or you provided incorrect information, you may need to contact New Zealand Immigration authorities. For future travel, you can apply for a new NZeTA if needed. The original is non-refundable, so ensure accuracy before submitting.

Travel insurance is not required for NZeTA approval, but it's highly recommended for comprehensive protection.