April 13th, 2025 at 05:53 pm

New Zealand Multiple-Entry Visas and Visa-Free Access for Pacific Travelers Begin July 2025

Get ready for an exciting change! New Zealand is welcoming Pacific Islanders with new immigration policies beginning in July and November 2025. These updates mean multiple entries, extended stays, and even visa-free travel for many.

New Visitor Visa Settings

Starting July 6, 2025, travelers from Pacific Islands Forum countries can enjoy significant benefits with a Visitor Visa. Here’s what you need to know:

• Multiple Entries: You can enter New Zealand multiple times within 24 months.
• Extended Stays: Stay for up to six months within any 12 months. You can also stay for no more than nine months in 18 months.

This change is a major win for families and businesses, enhancing cultural ties across the Pacific. Standard visa requirements, such as passport validity and security checks, will still apply. However, this update offers unprecedented flexibility for travelers.

Visa-Free Travel from Australia

That’s not all! In November 2025, a groundbreaking trial will begin, allowing visa-free travel for certain Pacific Islanders. If you’re from a Pacific Islands Forum country and already in Australia with a valid visitor, work, student, or family visa, you can:

• Skip the Visa Process: Simply apply for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA).
• Visit New Zealand: Stay for up to three months without needing a traditional visa.

Please note that this option does not apply to individuals merely transiting through Australia.

Eligible Countries

The new policies apply to travelers from the following Pacific Islands Forum countries:

• Federated States of Micronesia
• Fiji
• Kiribati
• Nauru
• Palau
• Papua New Guinea
• Republic of the Marshall Islands
• Samoa
• Solomon Islands
• Tonga
• Tuvalu
• Vanuatu

This list highlights New Zealand’s commitment to strengthening ties with its Pacific neighbors.

What’s Next?

These changes represent a significant step toward fostering closer relationships between New Zealand and Pacific nations. As the implementation date approaches, keep an eye out for more details and updates.

Prepare your passport and check your travel documents. New Zealand is opening its doors wider than ever for Pacific whānau. This is your chance to explore the beauty of Aotearoa with fewer hurdles and greater ease.

Whether for family visits, business, or cultural exchanges, the opportunities are expanding. Get ready for an unforgettable Kiwi experience!