Most New Zealand ETA applications are approved within 24–72 hours. Choose the processing speed that suits your travel timeline and get your NZeTA delivered by email.
Once you submit your New Zealand ETA application and payment is received, your application enters the Immigration New Zealand processing queue. The NZeTA processing time depends on the option you select and the complexity of your application.
The vast majority of standard applications are approved within 24 to 72 hours. Your approved NZeTA is sent directly to your email address — it is electronically linked to your passport, so no printing is required at the border.
Apply for your NZeTA as early as possible — ideally at the time of booking. At an absolute minimum, apply at least 72 hours before departure. Here is our recommended timeline:
Choose the processing speed that matches your travel timeline. All options include a dedicated application review, confirmation email, and support from our team.
48–72 Hours Processing
USD per person
24–48 Hours Processing
USD per person
12–24 Hours Processing
USD per person
Every NZeTA application includes two mandatory government-mandated charges — the NZeTA application fee and the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL). Here's what each covers.
The International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) is a mandatory charge introduced by the New Zealand government. It is collected as part of the NZeTA application process and is charged once per trip to New Zealand.
Revenue from the IVL funds:
Once your NZeTA is approved, here is everything you need to know about using it to travel to New Zealand.
Your NZeTA approval notice is sent directly to the email address you provided during the application. Keep a copy of this email — airlines or cruise operators may request to see it before boarding. No physical visa sticker or stamp is issued.
Your NZeTA is stored electronically and linked to your specific passport number. Border officials verify it automatically when you scan your passport on arrival. You do not need to print or present any document at the border.
Your NZeTA is valid for 2 years from the date of approval, or until your passport expires — whichever is sooner. During this period you may visit New Zealand as many times as you like, with each stay limited to a maximum of 90 days (up to 6 months for UK citizens).
Your NZeTA is no longer valid if: (a) it has been 2 years since approval, (b) your passport has expired or been replaced, or (c) your personal circumstances have changed (e.g. new criminal conviction). You must apply for a new NZeTA in any of these cases. NZeTA renewal is simply a new application — the process is identical.
While most NZeTA applications are approved within 24–72 hours, some cases require additional review by Immigration New Zealand and can take longer. Understanding the common causes of delay helps you avoid them.
Mismatched passport details Information in your application doesn't match your passport exactly — especially name spelling, date of birth, or passport number.
Unclear passport photograph A blurry, dark, or incorrectly cropped photo causes the application to be flagged for manual review.
Character or health screening Applicants who declare a criminal record or certain health conditions are referred for additional assessment, which can take up to 14 days.
Immigration history issues Prior NZ visa refusals, overstays, or deportations trigger a manual review process.
High application volumes During peak travel periods (December–January, July–August), processing can be slightly longer due to increased demand.
Follow these tips to maximise the chance of receiving your NZeTA approval within 24 hours:
Answers to the most searched questions about NZeTA approval times, fees, and validity.