what the heck is a NZeTA?

Starting on October 1, if you’re planning to travel to New Zealand, you’re going to need a NZeTA. What’s a NZeTA, you ask? Well, NZeTA stands for New Zealand Electric Travel Authority…which would be an awesome name for a band, wouldn’t it?

Well, it’s not a band. It’s an agency that gives you these new visas. For some travelers, it is now essential to arrange for a visa or an NZeTA before entering New Zealand. Visitors can check if they need a visa in order to enter the country. The basics are:

• From 1 October 2019, you will not be allowed to travel to New Zealand if you do not have a visa or an NZeTA.

• You can now request an NZeTA online using the Immigration NZ web form. There are also mobile apps for use on Android and Apple devices.

• You can travel to New Zealand without first applying for a visa if you are from a visa waiver country, a cruise ship passenger or a permanent resident of Australia.

• You can also pass through Auckland International Airport as a transit passenger on the way to or from Australia.

• If you’re from a visa waiver or transit visa waiver country, you’re allowed to pass through Auckland International Airport as a transit passenger on the way to another country.

• It’s possible to let someone to help you with your NZeTA request. You just need to tell them about your criminal conviction history and whether you are seeking medical treatment in New Zealand. That’s easy enough, right?

So, the big question you’re having is most likely whether or not the United States is one of the visa waiver countries. Well, good news—it is!

If you’re thinking about making the trip to New Zealand (and you should, because it’s incredible), we can assist you with making any arrangements for your visa. So don’t panic, just because you’ve heard about this NZeTA thing. We’re on it. Just give us a call.