QuickTravelTools Do I need a visa for New Zealand with a US passport?
- Passport
- US
- Destination
- New Zealand
- Purpose
- Tourism
- Stay
- See details
You need an ETA before you fly. It is a short online form, not a full visa.
Verified October 5, 2026
Source: Immigration New Zealand.
What you need
- Travel authorisation required
You need an ETA before you fly. It is a short online form, not a full visa.
Source: Immigration New Zealand
QTT checked New Zealand's official guidance on October 5, 2026. We re-check these sources and update this page when official rules change.
Official sources
- The United States is on New Zealand's visa waiver list; US passport holders can travel without a visa but must get a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before travel. (Immigration New Zealand, verified October 5, 2026)
Visa rules for all 199 passports: New Zealand visa hub.
Visa costs and applying
- Fee: 17 NZD, NZeTA via the mobile app (NZD 23 via the website); NZD 100 IVL paid at the same time for most nationalities
Source: Immigration New Zealand. - Processing time: Processing can take up to 72 hours
Source: Immigration New Zealand. - Apply: Start the official NZeTA official request (app or website)
Apply through the official mobile app or the immigration.govt.nz website only
- Apply: Start the official Visitor visa - apply online
Online application per the official INZ 1017 visitor visa form; covers tourists and business visitors on the same form
New Zealand at a glance
| Region | Oceania |
|---|---|
| Everyday prices | 90 on our price index (US = 100) |
| Power | Type I sockets, 230/400 V, 50 Hz |
On cost, New Zealand is one of the pricier places to visit: everyday prices sit at about 90 on a global index where the United States is 100. See how New Zealand compares to 179 countries.
Pack a plug adapter: US devices use Type A/B/NEMA 14-30/NEMA 14-50, but New Zealand uses Type I. Voltage differs too (230/400 V there versus 120/240 V, 120/208 V, 277/480 V at home), so check for a dual-voltage label before plugging in. Full plug and voltage guide for New Zealand.
Good to know about New Zealand
- New Zealand is strict about biosecurity. Declare all food, plants, and used outdoor gear like hiking boots when you arrive. Not declaring can bring a NZ$400 fine. (Ministry for Primary Industries)
- Carrying NZ$10,000 or more in cash into or out of New Zealand? You must complete a Border Cash Report with Customs. Not declaring can mean fines, seizure, or prosecution. (New Zealand Customs Service)
- Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after the date you leave New Zealand. You also need one blank page for an entry stamp. (U.S. Department of State)
- Traffic drives on the left in New Zealand. Roads are often narrow and winding, so drive with care. (U.S. Department of State)
Common questions
Do US citizens need a visa for New Zealand?
Yes. You need an ETA before you fly. It is a short online form, not a full visa.
How long can a US passport holder stay in New Zealand?
The permitted stay depends on the visa or authorisation issued. Check the official immigration site before booking.
Is the visa information on this page official?
No. This is a summary compiled from official government sources and verified by QuickTravelTools, and it can lag rule changes. Always confirm with New Zealand's embassy or official immigration portal before you travel.
Is there an arrival card or travel authorisation for New Zealand?
Visa-free visitors must get an NZeTA before flying to New Zealand, and it now includes a $100 visitor levy. Budget NZD $117 total through the official app, or NZD $123 on the website.
Nearby destinations for US passport holders
Sorted by distance from New Zealand, useful if your trip covers more than one country.