New Zealand NZeTA: fee, IVL & how to apply in 2026
Last reviewed 12 July 2026 · Source: Immigration New ZealandThe New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) is a pre-travel authorisation for visa-waiver visitors and transit passengers. Alongside it, New Zealand charges the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL), which funds conservation and tourism infrastructure. This guide covers both charges, who needs an NZeTA, and how to apply on the official Immigration New Zealand service.
At a glance
- Document
- NZeTA (travel authority)
- NZeTA fee
- NZ$17 app · NZ$23 web
- IVL levy
- Additional (see portal)
- Maximum stay
- Up to 90 days per visit
- Validity
- Up to 2 years
- Processing
- Usually within 72 hours
- Australians
- Exempt
- Apply via
- Official NZeTA app / immigration.govt.nz
Who needs an NZeTA
- Visa-waiver nationals visiting for tourism, business or family — including most European, North American, Gulf and East Asian passports.
- Transit passengers passing through Auckland International Airport.
- Cruise passengers arriving by sea.
Australian citizens do not need an NZeTA (though Australian permanent residents do). If your nationality is not visa-waiver, you need a visitor visa instead.
Fees: NZeTA + IVL
Two charges apply together. The IVL was increased significantly, so check the current figure.
| Charge | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| NZeTA (mobile app) | NZ$17 | Cheaper option |
| NZeTA (website) | NZ$23 | Same authority |
| IVL levy | See official portal | Charged with the NZeTA |
The app is the cheaper route for the NZeTA itself. The IVL is collected at the same time. Confirm both on the official portal, as amounts change.
Requirements
- A passport from a visa-waiver country (or transit eligibility).
- A smartphone (for the app) or web access.
- A digital photo taken during the application.
- A payment card and an email address.
How to apply
- Download the official NZeTA app or open the request on immigration.govt.nz.
- Scan your passport and take the requested photo.
- Answer the declaration questions.
- Pay the NZeTA fee and the IVL together.
- Wait for confirmation — usually within 72 hours, often much faster. Apply before booking non-refundable travel.
Validity & travel
An NZeTA lasts up to two years and covers multiple visits of up to 90 days each for most travellers (UK passport holders may get longer). It is electronically linked to your passport. It permits tourism, business visits and transit — not employment. If you renew your passport, request a new NZeTA.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the NZeTA?
NZ$17 through the official app or NZ$23 on the website, plus the separate IVL levy.
What is the IVL?
The International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy, charged alongside the NZeTA to fund conservation and tourism.
Do I need one just to transit?
Yes, if you pass through Auckland Airport you generally need an NZeTA even without leaving the airport.
Do Australians need it?
Australian citizens don’t. Australian permanent residents do.
How long does it take?
Often minutes, but allow up to 72 hours to be safe.
← Back to all destinations · Related: Australia ETA, USA ESTA, transit visas, visa-free travel.