NZeTA application guide for citizens of China
Use this application guide if you are a citizen of China requesting a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA).
What is an NZeTA?
An NZeTA allows some travellers to enter New Zealand for up to 3 months without applying for a visa first. You must continue to be eligible to travel to New Zealand visa waiver with an NZeTA.
New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA)
Important
As the NZeTA is not a visa, it does not guarantee entry into New Zealand. Travellers must still meet all entry requirements when they arrive, such as, being in good health and being a genuine visitor.
Being a genuine visitor means that you:
- are coming to New Zealand for the reason you stated in your application (for example a holiday or family visit)
- follow the rules of your NZeTA
- stay only for a short time
- keep your NZeTA valid
- leave when your visit is over.
Who can apply for an NZeTA
As a Chinese citizen, you are eligible for an NZeTA if you are:
1. Visiting from Australia with an eligible Australian visa
You can visit New Zealand with an NZeTA if:
- You are an Australian permanent resident, or
- You are travelling directly from Australia and hold an eligible Australian temporary visa. Your Australian visa must be valid when you check in to your flight. You are not eligible if you are only transiting through Australia.
Full list of eligible Australian visas
You can check your visa name and subclass number in your visa grant notification letter or online in VEVO.
Check visa details and conditions — Australian Department of Home Affairs
2. Transiting
You are transiting through Auckland International Airport on your way to another country. You are not entering New Zealand.
3. Visiting by ship
You are arriving in New Zealand on a cruise or cargo ship.
Note: If you are arriving by air and then boarding a cruise ship, you must have a visa.
Important
If none of the above applies to you, or you want to stay in New Zealand longer than 3 months, you must apply for a visa before travelling to New Zealand.
New Zealand and Australian passport holders do not need an NZeTA.
How to request an NZeTA
You can request an NZeTA using the free NZeTA app or through the NZeTA website.
You will need:
- The passport you are travelling with (which must be valid for travel)
- A recent photo of your face (no AI generated or edited photos)
- An email address
- Information to help us assess your eligibility (e.g. your purpose of visit, criminal record declaration)
- A credit or debit card.
For a step-by-step explanation on how to apply, watch our Chinese video guide.
Your application photo
The photo you submit must meet our photo standards, otherwise the application may be rejected.
Your photo must:
- clearly show your face
- look like you
- have been taken within the last 6 months
- be a photo of you which is not edited or altered, and
- not be a photo of a photo (for example a photo of your passport or your screen).
You cannot manipulate or digitally alter your photo using Artificial Intelligence (AI) or other digital editing tools. If you use AI to edit your photos your visa or NZeTA request may be declined.
Acceptable photos for a visa or NZeTA
Official application channels
Only use the official website or app to apply. Do not use unauthorised third-party services.
When to apply
You should apply well before your trip. Processing can take up to 72 hours.
If you do not have an NZeTA when checking in for your flight or cruise, you may be denied boarding.
Cost
- NZD $17 via the mobile app
- NZD $23 via the website
- IVL fee: NZD $100 per person (paid together with NZeTA)
What is IVL?
The International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) is a fee that contributes to the infrastructure and environmental protection of New Zealand.
Most travellers must pay the IVL at the same time they apply for their NZeTA.
Paying the International Visitor Levy
Travel Agents Can Help
Travel agents can assist with the NZeTA application using the app or website.