New Zealand Visa from Japan

New Zealand eTA requirements for Japanese citizens

Japan received the NZeTA process as a reward from New Zealand's immigration authorities for facilitating easy and swift entry at the border from 2019 onwards. It is a significant travel document that has not been optional for the traveller since July 2019. Japan is part of visa waiver program; thus, Japanese travellers must apply for NZeTA but this process is subject to certain requirements, such as:

• Duration of stay: Applicable for short-term stay, i.e., three (3) months or ninety (90) days.
• Purpose of visit: New Zealand ETA is applicable for short business meetings (attending conferences, meetings, or conducting negotiations), transit, and tourism like sightseeing, leisure, and family and friends meetings.
• Passport: An applicant must have a Japanese passport, and it should not expire for at least the next three months from the day of getting the eTA.

How can I apply for eTA New Zealand Visa from Japan?

The eTA New Zealand Visa for Japanese 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. Applicants must 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 Japanese citizens pay the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) fees, their eTA application processing commences. NZ eTA is delivered to Japanese citizens via email. In very rare circumstances if any additional documentation is required, the applicant will be contacted prior to the approval of the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) for Japanese citizens.

New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) form necessities for Japanese applicant

The New Zealand eTA requirements from citizens of Japan are minimal and simple. The following are essential:

• Valid Japanese Passport - To enter New Zealand, Japanese 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 the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) for Japanese citizens covers the eTA fee and the IVL (International Visitor Levy) fee.
• A working email address - Japanese 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.

NZeTA Stay Duration for Japanese Citizens

Japanese citizen's departure date must be within 3 months of arrival. Additionally, Japanese citizen can visit only for 6 months in a 12-month period on an NZ eTA.

How long can a Japanese citizen stay in New Zealand on a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA)?

Japanese 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 Japanese citizens intend to stay for a longer duration, then they should apply for a relevant Visa depending on their circumstances.

Travel to New Zealand from Japan

Upon receiving the New Zealand Visa for Japanese citizens, travellers will be able to either present an electronic or paper copy to present to the New Zealand border and immigration.

Multiple Entries Allowed on New Zealand NZeTA (for Japanese Citizens)

New Zealand Visa for Japanese citizens is valid for multiple entries during the period of its validity. Japanese citizens can enter multiple times during the two year validity of the NZ eTA.

Restriction with New Zealand eTA

New Zealand eTA is a lot easier to apply as 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 a New Zealand Visa.

• Visiting New Zealand for Medical treatment
• Work - you intend to join the New Zealand labour market
• Study
• Residence - you want to become a New Zealand resident
• Long-term stays of more than 3 months.

What factors streamlined the visa and NZeTA process for Japanese citizens?

The strong diplomatic relations between both nations since 1952 are the backbone to facilitate the successful visa and NZeTA process smoothly. The crucial factors are:

The historical ties, like the former prime minister's visits in 1952 and 1957 on political dialogue and cooperation, play a significant role in making stronger relations.

Both countries have shared good trade commerce and regional stability bonds. Thus, the New Zealand visa and eTA's smooth entry process push this strategic bond one step ahead in the path of success.

The important collaboration on security issues in the Asia-Pacific region is another example of both nations diplomatic relations. It is the necessary base that immigration authorities easily list Japan in the visa waiver program.

Benefits of an NZeTA for Japanese citizens

The simplified online application process of NZeTA saves time compared to traditional visas and the embassy's hassle for the applicant.

• The eTA process provides a calm, short-term stay to Japanese visitors if their visit intent comes under the eligibility criteria.
• It provides three months, or ninety days, stay as a gift on each visit.
• Once a Japanese applicant's NZeTA application is approved, he/she can enjoy multiple visits to the nation without any rules and regulations.
• The NZeTA form fee is cost-effective compared to traditional visa form fees. The ability to make fast online payments using a debit or credit card simplifies the process for the applicant.
• If a Japanese applicant has a motive of transit only, meaning passing through New Zealand's border to go somewhere else, do not wait longer for authorities' permission.
• The Japanese applicant's NZeTA application is processed within 72 hours. Compared to other visa kinds, this allows the applicant to expedite the processing of their travel plans.
• Carrying extra hard copies of travel documents is no longer required due to the NZeTA process. Its process is digitalized and is now electronically connected to the passport after approval.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an NZeTA if I am just transiting through New Zealand?

You need New Zealand eTA even though you are only transiting (have a layover or stop) through New Zealand. The following countries qualify for transit visa waivers: Andorra, Argentina, Austria, Bahamas, Bahrain, Belgium, Bermuda, Bolivia, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, etc.

What is the validity of NZeTA for Japanese applicants?

The NZeTA is valid for two years, with a maximum of 90 days stay during each trip NZ.

Can dual citizenship holders apply for NZeTA from Japan?

Citizens having two citizenship rights can apply for NZeTA, but they have to use the passport of the visa waiver nation, and that passport should be valid for six months, before and after your visit to NZ.

Click here to gets answers to more Frequently Asked Questions about NZeTA

What steps should I take if my NZeTA application is declined?

In case of application denial, contact the embassy for further process.

Are there any entry limits to enter New Zealand with an eTA?

No, during the eTA validity, you can enter multiple times. However, the stay limit of three months, or 90 days, is fixed for each visit.

Things To Do and Places of Interest for Japanese Citizens

• BodyFX, Auckland
• Drive Highway 80 into Mount Cook National Park
• Martinborough Winery Private Tour
• Wander around Australasia’s only castle, Dunedin
• Trike around Dunedin
• Inspect the Clay Cliffs, The Waitaki Valley
• Take a wineries tour in Central Otago
• Swim With the Dolphins, Christchurch
• Search for gold in the Buller Region
• Au pair in New Zealand
• Hop on an Aucky Walky tour, Auckland
• Fiordland National Park
• Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
• Queenstown-perfect place for jumping, white-water rafting, skydiving, or try your hand at jet boating

Japan Embassy in Wellington

Please apply for a New Zealand eTA 72 hours in advance of your flight.