This change aligns with the existing requirements for cruise ship passengers and crew, who have been required to hold an NZeTA since 2019. This includes crew members of foreign ships authorised by the Minister of Transport to carry coastal cargo.

The requirement for an NZeTA aims to promote a secure and efficient border management process for New Zealand, enhance consistency in immigration settings, and support a modern, digital approach to facilitate travel.

It also enables Immigration New Zealand (INZ) to have advance notice of visa-waiver travellers, enabling better management of any immigration concerns.

The new requirement will be implemented on 1 April 2025. This provides a transition period to give the shipping industry and carriers sufficient time to adapt to the NZeTA system.