Stopover in New Zealand: Do I need a transit visa?

Are you planning a stopover in New Zealand? Find out how to get an NZeTA transit visa.

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New Zealand transit visa

If you are planning a trip that involves a stopover or transit in New Zealand in the near future, you may need a transit visa, more commonly known as a transit NZeTA. But what are the specifics of this type of residence permit and what can you do during a stopover in New Zealand with it? This is what we propose you to discover here with some explanations on the transit NZeTA and the procedure to follow to obtain it quickly before the effective date of your next trip in this country.

New Zealand transit visa: key points

  • Some travellers are eligible for a free transit visa to New Zealand provided they do not leave the airport.
  • For a stopover in New Zealand, a transit visa or NZeTA may be required
  • The classic visa or NZeTA is required if you are in transit in New Zealand for several days or if you are leaving the airport.
  • Transit visas and NZeTAs for stopovers can be obtained online.

Is a visa required for a transit or stopover in New Zealand?

A visa is generally required to transit or stop over in New Zealand, unless you meet certain conditions. Transit or stopover travellers who do not leave the airport and do not apply to enter New Zealand may be eligible for a free transit visa. However, there are nationality restrictions, so it is important to check visa requirements with New Zealand consular authorities before planning your trip.

You can apply for an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) for transit to New Zealand if you do not leave the airport and do not apply to enter New Zealand. However, there are nationality restrictions and some travellers may be eligible for a free transit visa. It is therefore important to check visa requirements with the New Zealand consular authorities before planning your trip and apply for an NZeTA if necessary.

Apply for your New Zealand e-visa!

What is the difference between a transit and a stopover in New Zealand?

A transit in New Zealand means that you are travelling through the country without stopping, while a stopover means that you stop in a city or area for a period of time before continuing your journey. If you are making a stopover, you may need a transit or tourist visa to enter the country and stay for a period of time. If you are in transit, you may not need a visa, but you will need to leave the airport to continue your journey.

This difference is important because the transit visa will not work if you have a stopover in New Zealand of several days and leave the airport.

 

Which NZeTA to apply for when transiting New Zealand?

If you are transiting New Zealand, you may need to obtain an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before you leave. However, there are exceptions for some travellers who are not required to obtain an NZeTA to transit, such as nationals of certain countries who are eligible for the automatic transit visa. It is therefore important to check the visa requirements for your country of departure and for New Zealand before planning your trip. It is important to check these requirements with the New Zealand consular authorities or the consular authorities in your country.

 

To obtain a New Zealand Transit NZeTA, you will need to complete the following steps:

  • Check if you need an NZeTA: Nationals of some countries are eligible for the automatic transit visa and do not need to obtain an NZeTA to transit New Zealand. It is therefore important to check the visa requirements for your country of departure and for New Zealand before planning your trip.
  • Complete the online application form: You will need to complete an online application form on the official New Zealand Immigration website. It is important to fill in the form correctly and provide all the required documents, such as your passport information, travel details and contact information.
  • Pay the application fee: You will need to pay the application fee to get your NZeTA. The cost of the New Zealand visa varies depending on your country of residence and the site where you apply. It is important to check the exact fees with the New Zealand consular authorities or online at the official New Zealand immigration website to be sure.
  • Waiting for a response: After submitting your application and paying the fee, you will need to wait for a response from New Zealand Immigration. Depending on the workload, it can take up to 72 hours to receive confirmation. It is important to keep this confirmation as proof that you have obtained an NZeTA when travelling in New Zealand.

It is important to note that these steps are indicative and that procedures and requirements may vary depending on each individual's personal circumstances, so it is important to check these requirements with the New Zealand consular authorities or your country's consular authorities.

Apply for your New Zealand e-visa!

Can you visit New Zealand with a transit NZeTA?

A transit NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) is a type of visa that allows travellers in transit through New Zealand to stay in the country for a short period of time, usually 24-48 hours, without needing a tourist visa. It is intended for people who need to change planes or make a connection at an airport in New Zealand, and who do not wish to visit the country. It is important to note that transit travellers are not allowed to leave the airport and visit the country.

However, it is possible to obtain a tourist NZeTA to visit New Zealand, but this will depend on your personal circumstances, visa requirements and the length of your trip. It is therefore important to check the visa requirements for your country of departure and for New Zealand before planning your trip, and to consult the New Zealand consular authorities or the consular authorities in your country for information on the types of visa available and specific requirements.

The NZeTA tourist visa can also be applied for directly online using a simplified procedure. The fee will only be slightly higher than for a regular NZeTA. In return, you will be able to leave the airport during your stopover to visit the area around the airport.

Apply for your New Zealand e-visa!

Adeline HARMANT
As a web writer and globetrotter with a passion for travel and tourism, I have acquired in-depth knowledge of the procedures that are essential for travellers. I help travellers to complete all the formalities required for a successful trip, particularly when it comes to obtaining a visa online. With several years' experience in this field, I'd like to offer you some valuable advice to help you discover the world with complete peace of mind.

 

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get a transit NZeTA for New Zealand?

The time taken to obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) transit permit for New Zealand varies depending on the type of application and the processing chosen. For a standard application, it can take anywhere from a few hours to 72 hours. It is therefore important to submit your application well in advance of your trip to avoid any delays or problems. It is advisable to apply for your NZeTA at least 72 hours before your departure to ensure you have time to receive confirmation before your trip.

What information should be submitted to obtain a transit NZeTA?

To obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) transit permit for New Zealand, you will need to provide information such as personal details such as your name, date of birth, gender, nationality and passport details. You will need to provide travel information, such as departure and arrival dates in New Zealand, flight details and travel itinerary, and valid contact information, such as your email address and telephone number, so that New Zealand Immigration can contact you if necessary.

Do I need a passport for a transit or stopover in New Zealand?

Yes, a valid passport is required for transit or stopover in New Zealand, regardless of how long you stay in the country. Your passport must have a minimum validity of 3 months from the date of your entry into New Zealand. It is important to check the validity of your passport before planning your trip and ensure that it meets New Zealand visa requirements.