New Zealand to Expand NZeTA Access to 13 More Countries Starting November 3

On November 3, 2025, New Zealand will launch an exciting pilot program to enhance travel for Pacific Islanders and Chinese citizens residing in Australia. This initiative aims to simplify entry requirements and strengthen connections between nations. With the new rules, eligible travelers can enter New Zealand without needing a traditional visa, making the journey easier and more accessible.

Overview: NZeTA

The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) is an online travel authorization required for specific travelers. It applies to:

• Citizens of visa-waiver countries
• Passengers transiting through Auckland International Airport

The application process is straightforward. Travelers fill out an online form, answer security questions, upload a photo, and pay the required fee, which includes the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy. Once granted, the NZeTA is valid for two years and permits multiple entries.

Benefits of the NZeTA

With an NZeTA, travelers can:

• Enter New Zealand without applying for a visa
• Stay for up to three months at a time
• Make multiple visits while the NZeTA remains valid
• Transit through New Zealand for up to 24 hours

It’s crucial to note that an NZeTA is not a visa. Travelers must have it to board flights to New Zealand if they fall under the required categories.

Easier Entry for Pacific Islanders

Beginning November 3, 2025, citizens of Pacific Islands Forum member countries can travel from Australia to New Zealand without a visa. They only need:

• A valid NZeTA (applications open on October 27, 2025)
• An eligible Australian visa
• A valid passport

This arrangement allows travelers to stay in New Zealand for up to three months. The participating Pacific countries include:

• Fiji
• Kiribati
• Marshall Islands
• Micronesia
• Nauru
• Palau
• Papua New Guinea
• Samoa
• Solomon Islands
• Tonga
• Tuvalu
• Vanuatu

Similar Opportunities for Chinese Citizens

Chinese travelers will benefit from a comparable pilot program starting November 3, 2025. They can fly from Australia to New Zealand without a visa if they hold both an NZeTA and a qualifying Australian visa. Additionally, starting October 27, 2025, Chinese passport holders can transit through Auckland International Airport using an NZeTA, eliminating the need for a separate Transit Visa.

NZeTA Requirements for Pacific and Chinese Travelers

Alongside the standard NZeTA process, Pacific Islanders and Chinese citizens participating in the pilot must meet the following criteria:

• Travel directly from Australia to New Zealand
• Hold a passport from China or a Pacific Islands Forum country
• Carry a valid Australian visa from the approved list
• Obtain a valid NZeTA

To qualify for an NZeTA, applicants must also:

• Be in good health
• Meet character requirements
• Have a legitimate reason for visiting New Zealand
• Show proof of sufficient funds for their stay
• Hold a travel plan or return ticket

Eligible Australian Visas

The pilot program is limited to travelers who already possess certain Australian visas. Popular categories include:

1. Business, Investment, and Skilled Visas
2. Family and Partner Visas
3. Work, Holiday, and Training Visas
4. Student and Guardian Visas
5. Visitor Visas

Complete details are available on the New Zealand Immigration website.

Other Requirements Still Apply

Despite the relaxed entry rules, travelers must complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) within 24 hours before departure. This online form includes essential information on customs, health, and security. Immigration officials advise applying for the NZeTA at least 72 hours before travel to avoid last-minute complications.

Why This Matters

New Zealand is taking a significant step to facilitate travel from its Pacific neighbors and China, two regions with deep-rooted connections to both New Zealand and Australia. If this pilot program proves successful, it may lead to a broader implementation in the future, enhancing travel experiences for many.