New Zealand ETA Visa for US Citizens: Requirements and Application Online

As a US citizen planning to explore New Zealand, obtaining a New Zealand ETA (NZeTA) is an essential step in your journey. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the New Zealand ETA for US citizens, so you can start planning your dream trip without a hitch.

What is the New Zealand ETA?

The New Zealand ETA is not a visa but an electronic travel document introduced in July 2019 to simplify travel for eligible citizens.

The NZeTA is mandatory for all visa waiver nationalities, permanent residents of Australia, transit passengers, and cruise ship passengers of any nationality visiting New Zealand. With an ETA, you can enjoy a smooth travel experience to one of the most beautiful countries on earth.

Do US citizens need an ETA for New Zealand?

Yes, US citizens need a New Zealand ETA to enter the country because the US is one of the visa waiver countries.

Applying for your ETA with us is efficient and takes just 6 minutes to complete the form online. There’s no need to visit an embassy or stand in long queues.

Difficulty rating: Easy

For US citizens, the application process has a difficulty rating of 6/100. Here’s why:

• Number of questions: You’ll need to answer just 9 questions.

• Documents required: Only 1 document, your passport, is required.

• Challenging question: The most challenging question for many US applicants is about their city of birth, with over 700 applicants having issues with this question.

iVisa pro tip: Use the name of the city as it appears on your passport to increase the chances of approval.

How long is the ETA valid for US citizens?

The New Zealand ETA is valid for 2 years from the date of issue. During this period, you can stay in New Zealand for up to 3 months per visit, and a total of 6 months within a 12-month period.

What can I do with a New Zealand ETA?

The New Zealand ETA allows US citizens to:

• Visit family and friends

• Conduct business-related activities

• Transit through New Zealand

• Travel as a cruise ship or airline crew

New Zealand ETA requirements for US citizens

To apply for the New Zealand ETA, you’ll need the following:

• A US passport that’s valid for at least three months after your departure date from New Zealand

• A recent digital passport photo.

• Have at least NZD$1,000 (around USD$600) for each month of your stay. If your accommodation costs are already covered, you should have NZD$400 (around USD$240) per month.

• A return ticket as proof of onward travel

• Be in good health and a person of good character

• Be a genuine visitor and plan to stay in New Zealand temporarily

If you're traveling with children, each child will need a separate ETA application. If your child is traveling without you, include a notarized authorization letter with their application.

New Zealand ETA: How to apply in the United States

Applying for your New Zealand ETA with us is as simple as 1-2-3:

• Step 1: Provide your personal and travel details on our website or the iVisa app.

• Step 2: Double-check your information and then pay the visa and service fees using PayPal, Venmo, or a credit/debit card.

• Step 3: Complete the rest of the application, upload the required document and submit your application.

Once approved, your ETA will be emailed to you. Ensure you provide a valid and regularly checked email address during your application. Double-check your spam folder if you don’t see it in your inbox.

The International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) is already included in the fees you’ll pay, so you won’t have any surprise costs when you arrive in the country. This levy helps protect New Zealand’s stunning environment and supports conservation efforts.

“I was a little nervous about applying for my New Zealand ETA on a non-government website, but iVisa made the whole process so easy. The application took just a few minutes, and they even helped me I wasn’t sure about what to fill in the form. I got my ETA in no time." - James R., US

Does the ETA guarantee entry to New Zealand?

While the ETA is essential, it doesn’t guarantee entry. Immigration officers at your port of entry have the final say. Be sure to have all your documents ready and meet the entry requirements to avoid any issues.

What to do in New Zealand?

Here are three top places to visit in New Zealand:

• Milford Sound: Located in the Fiordland National Park on the South Island, Milford Sound is a breathtakingly beautiful fjord surrounded by towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and pristine wilderness. You can take a boat tour through the sound to get up close and personal with its dramatic scenery.

• Queenstown: Known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown is a lively city on the South Island that offers a range of adrenaline-pumping activities, such as bungee jumping, skydiving, and white-water rafting. It is also home to scenic walking trails, world-class ski resorts, and a thriving food and wine scene.

• Rotorua: Located on the North Island, Rotorua is a geothermal wonderland famous for its hot springs, geysers, and mud pools. You can explore the area's unique geothermal features at attractions such as Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland and the Te Puia Maori Cultural Center, which also offers cultural performances and traditional food.

Where can I learn more?

Our customer service team is ready to assist if you have any questions about traveling to New Zealand and the ETA application. Contact us anytime via WhatsApp or iVisa chat.