FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Yes and no — US citizens do not need a traditional visa, but they do need an NZeTA. The United States is on New Zealand's visa-waiver list, so American passport holders travelling for tourism, business, transit or a cruise can enter on an NZeTA rather than a full visitor visa.
You must obtain the NZeTA before you board your flight or cruise; without it the airline will not let you travel. It is applied for entirely online, is valid for up to 2 years and allows multiple visits of up to 90 days each. If, however, you are travelling for a purpose the NZeTA does not cover — such as working, studying or receiving medical treatment — you must apply for the appropriate New Zealand visa instead. US travellers can apply for the NZeTA online in just a few minutes.
Do I need an NZeTA for transit?
Do we need NZeTA every time we visit New Zealand?
How long can I stay with the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA)?
How long can a person stay in New Zealand and what are the requirements?