Obtaining a New Zealand Visa for US Citizens 

New Zealand is far more than the film backdrop for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies. Between its two main islands, North Island and South Island, this Pacific Ocean destination is full of geological wonders—and serious rugby fans and wine production, particularly within the Marlborough region. 

There are many sites of cultural significance to the Māori population; among them, Te Puia is a geothermal wonderland for its geysers, hot springs, and mud pools. Adventure can also be found at Tongariro National Park, not only one of three New Zealand’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites but also home to one of the island country’s most popular day hikes. 

Whether you’re planning multiple visits or a one-time stay, here are the visas, passport details, and travel documents required, plus other essential information United States citizens should know before an arrival date in New Zealand.

Essential Travel Information

  • Official Languages

    English, the most widely spoken; Māori, an indigenous language spoken by a significant portion of the Māori population; and New Zealand Sign Language.

  • Time Zone

    Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+12)

  • Climate

    The temperatures in New Zealand are generally mild and decreasing as you go south. However, due to its varying topography, the weather can change a lot around the country. Remember that New Zealand is located in the southern hemisphere, so the seasons are opposite to those within the northern hemisphere.

  • Calling Code

    +64

  • Electricity

    230 or 240 volts/50Hz (requires Type I socket plugs)

  • Capital City and US Embassy

    Wellington; there’s also a US consulate in Auckland.

  • Currency

    New Zealand dollar ($; NZD); current exchange rate, 1 NZ$ = US$0.61 (exchange rate subject to change). New Zealand dollars are available in amounts of $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100; coins range 10, 20, and 50 cents and $1 and $2.

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Essential Travel Information to Visit New Zealand

  • Official languages: English, the most widely spoken; Māori, an indigenous language spoken by a significant portion of the Māori population; and New Zealand Sign Language.
  • Time Zone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+12)
  • Climate: The temperatures in New Zealand are generally mild and decreasing as you go south. However, due to its varying topography, the weather can change a lot around the country. Remember that New Zealand is located in the southern hemisphere, so the seasons are opposite to those within the northern hemisphere.
  • Calling Code: +64
  • Electricity: 230 or 240 volts/50Hz (requires Type I socket plugs)
  • Capital City and US Embassy: Wellington; there’s also a US consulate in Auckland.
  • Currency: New Zealand dollar ($; NZD); current exchange rate, 1 NZ$ = US$0.61 (exchange rate subject to change). New Zealand dollars are available in amounts of $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100; coins range 10, 20, and 50 cents and $1 and $2.

Do US Citizens Need a Visa for Travel to New Zealand?

While a New Zealand visa waiver is available if you’re an Australian citizen, among other nationalities, US citizens need to present a valid visa at customs. There are different New Zealand visas to apply for depending on the nature of your visit.

New Zealand Visa Requirements for US Citizens

One of the most popular New Zealand visas is the NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority), a visa-waiver program that allows travelers from certain countries to apply online. The New Zealand eTA visa waiver is the most common option for travelers.

There is also a Visitor Visa for travelers staying in New Zealand longer than three months; a Medical Treatment Visa for an approved medical treatment or consultation; and a Business Visitor Visa, which requires the financial support of your employer or enough money to live on for the duration of your stay.

The cost for a visa to New Zealand varies depending on your trip’s purpose and timing. Entriva’s handling fees start as low as $50.

New Zealand Travel Requirements

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Passport

Travelers must show a passport valid for at least three months before your trip’s planned date of departure from New Zealand. One blank page in your passport is required for an entry stamp. Visitors to New Zealand also need to have an outward/return ticket.

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Vaccinations

COVID-19 vaccinations and testing are no longer required for travelers to New Zealand, though you should keep your COVID-19 vaccinations up-to-date before your arrival. It’s also advised to confirm with your airline or cruise provider if proof of vaccination is required, and to purchase travel insurance and check what your plan’s coverage provides for COVID-19-related events.

Visit Unite Against COVID-19 for the latest information on COVID-19 related requirements.

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Required Documents

Before disembarking in New Zealand, travelers are currently given a paper Passenger Arrival Card to fill out before passport control. In July 2023, however, travelers arriving at selected international airports in New Zealand will be able to complete the New Zealand Traveller Declaration online instead.

The Tiaki Promise is a pledge by travelers to New Zealand to be respectful to the environment and others and cultural sites linked to the Māori.

New Zealand Travel Restrictions

The Government of New Zealand requires all non-New Zealand citizens ages 17 and up, entering the country to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Visit the Consulate General’s COVID-19 page for more information on entry/exit requirements related to COVID-19 in New Zealand.

The US State Department currently has a Level 1 Travel Advisory set for American citizens in New Zealand. Exercise normal precautions if you decide to go.

For more up-to-date information about travel restrictions to New Zealand, use Entriva’s travel map or check the US State Department website.

Health and Safety in New Zealand

Generally, New Zealand is a safe country, but it is always best to remain alert with your belongings and within your surroundings. If you run into any trouble, contact your country’s embassy or consulates for assistance. Report lost or stolen possessions as soon as possible to the nearest police station. In New Zealand, the emergency number for police, fire and ambulance is 111.

It’s best to purchase travel insurance that will cover you for any loss of expensive items and medical or travel costs associated with illness, accidents, or injuries.

In regard to COVID-19, make certain that your plan includes coverage relating to medical expenses, trip amendments, and cancellations.

Local Laws for Travelers to New Zealand

If you rent a car for driving around New Zealand, you must drive on the left-hand side of the road and give way when turning right. Speed limits must be adhered to, and handheld cell-phone usage while driving is prohibited.

Respecting wildlife in New Zealand is of utmost importance. There are serious laws relating to conservation, making it illegal to harm or disturb protected native plants and wildlife. There are also restrictions on fishing and hunting in certain areas.

New Zealand’s Māori cultural heritage is strong. Travelers are expected to show respect for Māori customs, cultural protocols, and intellectual property, including the appropriate use of Māori names, symbols, and designs.

Money, Banking, and Currency in New Zealand

There are no restrictions on the amount of cash brought in or taken away from New Zealand. However, anyone who carries more than NZ$10,000 in cash (or a foreign equivalent) is required to complete a Border Cash Report.

Banking business hours in New Zealand can vary, but generally they are open on weekdays from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ATMs are common in bank branches and at major shopping areas.

ATM cards with a four-digit PIN—which is the standard in New Zealand—should usually work. It’s recommended to check with your bank about using your credit or debit card before leaving for your trip.

While most major credit cards are accepted at businesses in New Zealand, Visa and Mastercard are largely used. Apple Pay may also be taken as payment, but travelers checks are largely a thing of the past.

Preparing for Your New Zealand Trip

Obtaining a valid New Zealand visa is an essential part of planning your trip. At Entriva, we can easily and efficiently help you with every aspect of getting a New Zealand visa. Start your visa application process.

Doing your research before traveling helps you avoid issues and be prepared in case of an emergency. For more information on other aspects of New Zealand travel, including local laws, health and safety, money and currency, and the possibility of extending your stay, visit our New Zealand content hub.

Essential Travel Information

  • Official Languages

    English, the most widely spoken; Māori, an indigenous language spoken by a significant portion of the Māori population; and New Zealand Sign Language.

  • Time Zone

    Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+12)

  • Climate

    The temperatures in New Zealand are generally mild and decreasing as you go south. However, due to its varying topography, the weather can change a lot around the country. Remember that New Zealand is located in the southern hemisphere, so the seasons are opposite to those within the northern hemisphere.

  • Calling Code

    +64

  • Electricity

    230 or 240 volts/50Hz (requires Type I socket plugs)

  • Capital City and US Embassy

    Wellington; there’s also a US consulate in Auckland.

  • Currency

    New Zealand dollar ($; NZD); current exchange rate, 1 NZ$ = US$0.61 (exchange rate subject to change). New Zealand dollars are available in amounts of $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100; coins range 10, 20, and 50 cents and $1 and $2.

Unlocking the World: Adventures Await on Your Traveler's Path

Get Travel Visa learn more