How to arrange a New Zealand visitor visa from the UK

Katerina Galkina · EN · 07/10/2026

NZeTA is not for every UK resident

Start with the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority ↗. The suitable route depends on your passport and travel circumstances. UK residence alone does not make you eligible to use an NZeTA instead of a visa.

Eligible British citizens can be admitted for up to six months per visit, while other visa waiver travellers may have different conditions. An NZeTA permits travel to undergo entry procedures; admission is not guaranteed in advance.

Where a Visitor Visa is required

Use the Immigration New Zealand Visitor Visa page ↗, entering nationality and application location. From 1 October 2026 this category must be applied for online. Start through the official Apply online link and retain your own account access and application number.

If travelling with a partner or children, check inclusion rules and relationship evidence. Do not assume one adult's NZeTA covers a family. Choose an appropriate category in advance for a longer stay or different purpose.

Demonstrate a temporary visit

Prepare your passport, photograph, itinerary, funds or acceptable sponsorship, intention to leave and permission to return to the UK. Health and character evidence depends on the particular application's requirements. Follow the official translation and file instructions.

Where a host pays, establish whether they qualify as a sponsor and which documents they must complete. An invitation to stay is not the same as accepted financial sponsorship. Respond through the prescribed channel and monitor deadlines.

Check fees, the decision and NZTD

Before paying, check the chosen route's charges and whether the IVL tourist levy applies. Published times are guidance, not a promised decision before your flight. Immigration New Zealand recommends avoiding non-refundable travel before a Visitor Visa is approved.

Read the issued eVisa or NZeTA conditions for passport details, entries, duration and restrictions. Before arrival, complete the separate New Zealand Traveller Declaration ↗; it does not replace a visa or NZeTA. Carry financial and onward travel evidence for entry checks. If renewing your passport, check transfer or new application requirements before departure.