New Zealand is set to introduce significant changes to its visa requirements for certain passport holders travelling from Australia, particularly impacting those from Pacific Islands Forum countries. These updates, coming into effect in late 2025, aim to streamline travel and foster stronger connections within the Pacific region.

The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) Explained

Before diving into the changes, it’s helpful to understand the NZeTA. The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) is an electronic travel authorization that allows citizens of certain visa-waiver countries to travel to New Zealand without needing to apply for a traditional visa beforehand. It functions similarly to an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) in other countries.

Currently, most travellers from visa-waiver countries, cruise ship passengers, and Australian permanent residents need an NZeTA to enter New Zealand. Australian citizens, however, are generally exempt from needing both a visa and an NZeTA when travelling on an Australian passport. The NZeTA is typically valid for two years and allows for multiple entries, with stays usually limited to up to three months (or six months for British nationals). Along with the NZeTA fee, most travellers are also required to pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL), which contributes to tourism infrastructure and conservation initiatives in New Zealand.

Key Changes from November 2025: NZeTA for Australian Visa Holders

The most significant upcoming change, effective from November 2025, will directly benefit passport holders from Pacific Islands Forum countries who hold a valid Australian visa. Under this new trial policy, these individuals will be able to travel to New Zealand from Australia using a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) instead of having to apply for a separate New Zealand visa.

Specifically, if you hold a passport from one of the Pacific Islands Forum countries and possess a valid Australian:

  • Visitor visa
  • Work visa
  • Student visa
  • Family visa

…you will be eligible to apply for an NZeTA to enter New Zealand. This NZeTA will allow a stay of up to three months.

Important Clarification on Transit: It’s crucial to note that this new provision is designed for those who have a legitimate Australian visa allowing them to enter and stay in Australia. It does not include people merely transiting through Australia on a transit visa unless that transit visa also grants them full entry rights into Australia. The intent is to facilitate travel for those already legitimately residing in or visiting Australia under a substantive visa.

Rationale Behind the Policy Shift

This policy adjustment reflects New Zealand’s commitment to strengthening its ties with Pacific Island nations and streamlining travel processes for its regional neighbours. The move is part of a broader effort to:

  1. Welcome Pacific Visitors: By simplifying entry requirements, New Zealand aims to make it easier and more convenient for people from Pacific Islands Forum countries to visit, whether for family, cultural exchange, or tourism.
  2. Enhance Regional Connectivity: This change fosters greater connectivity and ease of movement between Australia and New Zealand for a specific cohort of travellers, leveraging Australia’s existing visa framework.
  3. Boost Tourism and Economic Activity: While the primary focus is on Pacific visitors, facilitating easier travel for those already in Australia could indirectly contribute to New Zealand’s tourism sector by encouraging short visits.
  4. Improve Travel Conditions: Immigration New Zealand is also implementing other changes to improve travel conditions for Pacific visitors, such as allowing those granted a Visitor Visa from July 6, 2025, to visit New Zealand multiple times within a 24-month period, with a total stay of up to six months in any 12-month period.

Other Important Considerations for Travellers

While this new NZeTA pathway offers increased convenience, all travellers must still meet standard New Zealand entry requirements. These typically include:

  • Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from New Zealand.
  • Good Health and Character: You must meet New Zealand’s health and character requirements.
  • Genuine Intentions: You must have a genuine reason for visiting New Zealand (e.g., tourism, visiting family/friends) and not intend to work for a New Zealand employer. Remote work for an overseas employer is generally permitted for up to 90 days for NZeTA or Visitor Visa holders.
  • Sufficient Funds: You must demonstrate that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay (e.g., NZ1,000permonth,orNZ400 per month if accommodation is prepaid) or have an acceptable sponsor.
  • Onward Travel: You must have proof of onward travel arrangements (e.g., a confirmed flight ticket out of New Zealand) to a country you have the right to enter.
  • New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD): All passengers entering New Zealand, including NZeTA holders, must complete a free digital New Zealand Traveller Declaration before arrival. This collects travel, customs, immigration, and biosecurity information.

Looking Ahead

This new NZeTA provision is being introduced as a 12-month trial, indicating that its effectiveness and impact will be monitored. It represents a significant step towards simplifying travel for a specific group of visitors and underscores New Zealand’s ongoing efforts to adapt its immigration policies to support its tourism goals and regional relationships.

Travellers planning to utilize this new pathway from November 2025 are strongly advised to consult the official Immigration New Zealand website closer to their travel dates for the most up-to-date and specific requirements, as policies can be subject to change or further refinement.