New Zealand’s eTA, or Electronic Travel Authority, allows US citizens to travel to New Zealand as tourists without needing to apply for a visa. In order to be eligible for an eTA, you must meet certain requirements and have the appropriate documentation on hand before applying. This guide walks you through the process of applying for an eTA as a US citizen, from creating an account and supplying information about yourself, your passport, and the purpose of your visit, to actually receiving the eTA itself via email once your application has been processed.
What is an eTA?
The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is an entry requirement that allows citizens of certain countries, including those from New Zealand and the United States, to travel to New Zealand. Citizens of countries in Europe, Asia, and Latin America do not need an eTA because they can travel visa-free. It was launched on November 28, 2016. The electronic travel authority gives travelers from approved nations easier access when entering New Zealand through its airport locations. The entry requirements are straightforward and easy for most people traveling from eligible nations that including Ireland, Taiwan, South Korea, and more. The information below explains how you can apply for a New Zealand ETA if you are traveling from or residing in one of these approved countries
What are the benefits of an eTA?
One of the most convenient travel authorizations available is an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). It allows visitors from select countries, including U.S. citizens, to enter Canada more quickly and easily at any of Canada’s border crossings. It is valid for five years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Travelers entering by air can apply online before they travel. If you don’t have Internet access you can still apply through a travel agent or at one of Canada’s major airports when departing from certain countries: France, Germany, India, Ireland, Italy, and China.
Who needs an eTA?
Although anyone from an eligible country can travel to New Zealand without a visa, it’s important to understand that you will require an Electronic Travel Authority (eTA) if you plan on traveling there by air. For Americans, applying for an eTA is simple and straightforward – but there are some important things you should know before applying. You should also know that getting your New Zealand ETA approved can take several days or even weeks. So make sure you apply early and get your paperwork in order. Once your application has been approved, your New Zealand eTA will be valid immediately so you can start planning your trip right away!
How do I apply for an eTA?
As of July 19, 2017, all United States citizens transiting New Zealand will be required to have an Electronic Travel Authority (eTA) before arriving in New Zealand. This is regardless of whether or not you plan on leaving your plane. You do not need an eTA if you are arriving at Auckland Airport and traveling by Jetstar Airways, Qantas Airways, or Air New Zealand. Citizens with ETA’s or visas can travel freely without question.
Do I still need to complete forms on arrival at Auckland Airport?
When you arrive at Auckland Airport, you won’t need to complete any forms if you have an Electronic Travel Authority (eTA) and are traveling with your passport. This applies even if you are transiting through Auckland on your way to another destination in New Zealand. If you don’t have an ETA, or if your name is different on your documents than it is on your e-ticket (the airline booking confirmation), then it’s possible that customs officers will ask you some questions and check your documents. If they have any concerns about whether or not you should be allowed into New Zealand, they can send you for further checks, including fingerprinting and a health assessment by an immigration officer before issuing a decision. New Zealand eTA for US Citizens
Any further questions?
To learn more about getting an eTA, you can contact New Zealand’s Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment directly. Be sure to ask questions like what happens if I leave New Zealand while my application is still being processed? or is there any way I can save time by submitting an application before arriving in New Zealand?. The ministry should be able to answer your questions quickly and point you in the right direction.
