New Zealand eTA Eligibility
- German citizens can apply for an NZeTA
- Germany was a launch member of the NZ eTA program
- German citizens enjoy fast entry using the NZ eTA program
Other New Zealand eTA Requirements
- A Germany-issued Passport that is valid for another 3 months after departure from New Zealand
- NZ eTA is valid for arrival by air and cruise ship
- NZ eTA is for short tourist, business, transit visits
- You must be over 18 to apply for an NZ eTA otherwise require a parent/guardian
Understanding of New Zealand ETA for German Travelers
The Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) was introduced by New Zealand in July 2019 for nationals of visa-waiver countries, including Germany. German citizens can travel to New Zealand for up to three(3) months or ninety(90) days for tourism, business, or transit under this pre-travel authorization. The NZeTA acts as a digital entry permit and is electronically linked to the traveller's passport. It is a mandatory requirement, separate from a visa, that must be obtained before travel. German travellers without a valid NZeTA will be denied boarding, even if they have a return ticket and confirmed travel plans.
Purpose of the NZeTA for Germans
German citizens can gain quick entry at New Zealand borders with an approved NZeTA for the following purposes:
- Tourism: A German visitor can visit New Zealand for holidays, sightseeing, and leisure activities, along with friends and family meetings.
- Transit: if a German tourist is travelling to another country and stops in New Zealand or has a connecting flight from New Zealand airport.
- Short business trips: German visitors can attend short meetings and conferences or conduct business negotiations (not for employment).
- Remote Work: If a German visitor is a digital nomad, they can come for travel and vacations for the valid time period of NZETA.
For whom is NZeTA necessary?
- A traveller with an active and valid German passport.
- Any cruise and cargo ship passenger coming to New Zealand.
NZeTA validity for German travellers
- Until the German applicant's passport expires, or for a maximum of two years, the approved NZeTA is valid.
- It allows for multiple visits to New Zealand within its validity period, i.e., two (2) years.
- Each stay can last a maximum of three(3) months or ninety(90) days.
Stay permission on NZeTA
- German citizen's departure date must be within 3 months of arrival. Additionally, German citizens can visit only for 6 months in a 12-month period on an NZ eTA.
- German passport holders are required to obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) even for a short duration of 1 day up to 90 days. If the German citizens intend to stay for a longer duration, then they should apply for a relevant Visa depending on their circumstances.
Note: Upon receiving the New Zealand Visa for German citizens, travellers will be able to either present an electronic or paper copy to present to the New Zealand border and immigration.
Only Australian Citizens are exempt, even Australian permanent residents are required to obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authorisation (NZeTA).
How can I apply for eTA New Zealand Visa from Germany?
The eTA New Zealand Visa for German citizens comprises an online application form that can be completed in less than five (5) minutes. You are also required to upload a recent face-photograph. It is necessary for applicants to enter personal details, their contact details, like email and address, and information on their passport page. Applicant must be in good health and should not have a criminal history. You can get more information at New Zealand eTA Application Form Guide.
After German citizens pay the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) fees, their eTA application processing commences. NZ eTA is delivered to German citizens via email. In very rare circumstance if any additional documentation is required, the the applicant will be contact prior to approval of New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) for German citizens.
NZETA application's confirmation and processing time for Germans
Typically, NZeTA application requests of German travellers are handled in 72 hours. In fact, the applicant will get confirmation through email. But it's crucial to remember that this is only an estimate, and certain applications can take longer for a variety of reasons, including:
- Inaccurate or missing information: An application will probably be delayed if it contains errors or missing information.
- Photograph issues: If the submitted applicant's photograph doesn't meet the guidelines, it may be rejected, causing a delay.
- High demand: Due to a higher volume of applications, processing times may be lengthier during New Zealand's busiest travel seasons.
- System/technical issues: Technical problems can occasionally occur and impact processing delays.
New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) requirements for German citizens
The New Zealand eTA requirements from citizens of Germany are minimal and simple. Following are essential:
- Valid German Passport - To enter New Zealand, German citizens will require a valid Passport. Ensure that your Passport is valid for at least 3 months past the date of departure from New Zealand.
- An online method of payment - Applicants will also require a valid Credit or Debit card to pay the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA). The fee for New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) for German citizens covers eTA fee and IVL (International Visitor Levy) fee.
- A working email address - German citizens are also required to provide a valid email address, to receive the NZeTA in their inbox. It will be your responsibility to carefully double-check all the data entered so there are no issues with the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA), otherwise you may have to apply for another NZ eTA.
- A face photograph of the applicant - Last requirement is to have a recently taken clear face-photograph in passport-style. You are required to upload the face-photograph as part of New Zealand eTA application process. If you are unable to upload for some reason, you can email helpdesk your photo.
Steps to Take After Receiving NZeTA Approval
- Even though it's electronic, print a copy of the NZeTA confirmation. Keep it with your passport.
- Keep the printed confirmation with other travel documents, such as a passport, flight tickets, and hotel bookings.
- Verify that your German passport will still be valid three months after your intended departure from New Zealand before you depart. Don't wait—check it now! If it's close to expiring, renew it ASAP.
Tips for a Smooth NZeTA Application Process for German Citizens
To ensure a hassle-free NZeTA application, German citizens should follow the below steps for smooth and stress-free entry into New Zealand:
- Apply early: Submit the application well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
- Double-check details: Review all information before submission to prevent errors.
- Reliable internet is a must: NZetA is an online process, thus a stable connection prevents frustrating interruptions during your application.
- Save and print: Keep a digital and printed copy of your NZeTA approval. It is a good backup to have for stress stress-free trip.
Which activities are not allowed for German citizens on New Zealand eTA?
New Zealand eTA is a lot easier to apply compared to New Zealand Visitor Visa. The process can be completed entirely online in a matter of few minutes. New Zealand eTA can be used for visits of up to 90 days for tourism, transit and business trips.
Some of the activities not covered by New Zealand are listed below, in which case you should instead apply for New Zealand Visa.
- Visiting New Zealand for Medical treatment
- Work - you intent to join New Zealand labour market
- Study
- Residence - you want to become a New Zealand resident
- Long-term stays of more than 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I get my NZeTA, it needs extra reviewing or processing?
More reviewing means that your application is undergoing further checking, your details are checked more diligently. If such issues happen don't worry, wait patiently till the decision of the immigration authorities are finalized.
With the NZeTA, can I visit my friends and family?
With the NZeTA, you have the liberty to meet your friends and family, just don't extend your stay beyond the time frame.
If you have had a visa rejection in the past,or if you have been declined entry to another nation, are you still eligible to apply for NZeTA?
It may impact the decision of NZeTA to some extent, however you have the right to apply. Your entry will solely be decided based upon your reason for rejections and the documents you have provided as proof. The decision depends on the immigration officials.
I have received my NZeTA application feedback and it's confusing. What to do?
Visit the immigration of New Zealand official site or contact the customer support, otherwise you can visit the immigration of New Zealand office, let the officials clarify you. At all times, keep the exchange mails regarding the NZeTA, do not delete it.
I have a past criminal record, am I still eligible to apply for NZeTA?
Even with a past criminal record you are still eligible to apply for NZeTA. However, your application status will depend on the nature of the crime you have committed and the documents you provide as proof.
READ MORE:
Depending on your country of origin, you may opt for a New Zealand Holiday Visa or the NZeTA. The New Zealand Holiday Visa is a travel authorization tool that allows you to apply online and travel to New Zealand. Learn more at New Zealand Holiday Visa.
Things To Do and Places of Interest for German Citizens
- Remarkable zip-lining in the Remarkables, Queenstown
- Go On a Scenic Helicopter flight Over Milford Sound
- Admire the coast from Castlepoint lighthouse
- Get your Heard Pumpint with AJ Hackett, Queenstown
- Taste a tipple in Hawke’s Bay
- Walk the Paths of the Dead, The Putangirua Pinnacles
- Hire a campervan
- Photograph Lake Wanaka’s single tree
- Try the Skyswing in Rotorua
- See all of Wellington from Mt Victoria Lookout
- Rollerblade along Wellington’s waterfront