Visitor Visa vs NZeTA: which New Zealand visa is right for you?
Two ways to enter New Zealand short-term: the Visitor Visa for travellers who need a visa, and the NZeTA for visa-waiver nationals and cruise travellers.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Visitor Visa (Visitor Visa) | New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) (NZeTA) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Temporary | Short stay |
| Who it's for | For people who want to visit New Zealand for tourism, to see family or friends, or for short business trips. | For citizens of visa-waiver countries and cruise passengers travelling to or transiting New Zealand. |
| Government cost | ~NZ$441 online plus NZ$100 International Visitor Levy | ~NZ$17 (app) or NZ$23 (web) plus NZ$100 International Visitor Levy |
| Processing time | ~3-8 weeks | ~10 minutes to 72 hours |
| Length of stay | Up to 9 months in an 18-month period | Up to 3 months (6 months for UK passport holders) per visit |
| Where to apply | Online, from outside or inside New Zealand | Online or via the NZeTA mobile app |
| Work rights | No work allowed (limited business activities only) | No work allowed (visitor conditions) |
| Pathway to PR | No direct path to residence; visitors may later apply for work, study or family visas. | No path to residence; it authorises visa-waiver travel only. |
Which is right for you?
Visitor Visa (Visitor Visa)
For people who want to visit New Zealand for tourism, to see family or friends, or for short business trips.
Full Visitor Visa guide →New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) (NZeTA)
For citizens of visa-waiver countries and cruise passengers travelling to or transiting New Zealand.
Full NZeTA guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, Visitor Visa or NZeTA?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) (NZeTA) is the lowest at ~NZ$17 (app) or NZ$23 (web) plus NZ$100 International Visitor Levy. Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, Visitor Visa or NZeTA?
Indicatively Visitor Visa (Visitor Visa) is the quickest at ~3-8 weeks. Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
What's the main difference between Visitor Visa and NZeTA?
Visitor Visa (Visitor Visa) is for for people who want to visit New Zealand for tourism, to see family or friends, or for short business trips. New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) (NZeTA) is for for citizens of visa-waiver countries and cruise passengers travelling to or transiting New Zealand.