If you are travelling to New Zealand, you need to complete the New Zealand Traveller Declaration 24 hours before departure. In this declaration, you need to fill in your passport data and some other details regarding your trip. This is not part of the NZeTA application, but a separate form.
Replacement for the Passenger Arrival Card
Travellers to New Zealand are required to complete the New Zealand Traveller Declaration in addition to applying for their NZeTA or visa. This requirement applies to New Zealanders and Australians, too. The declaration was introduced in August 2023 as a replacement for the Passenger Arrival Card that could be filled out on the plane. You can fill out this declaration in 10 minutes via the New Zealand Immigration website, or the NZTD app.
How to fill in the New Zealand Traveller Declaration
In order to fill in the New Zealand Traveller Declaration, you need to follow several steps. First, you have to enter your name and contact information, such as an e-mail address and a phone number. Then, you have to provide some personal information, like your first and last name, date and country of birth, nationality and passport number.
You will then be directed to a page where you will have to indicate the date and the flight or cruise ship on which you will enter New Zealand. Next, you will need to provide some personal information as well as details about your trip, namely:
- Your home address and the address where you will be staying in New Zealand
- Your travel purpose (tourism, business, visiting friends/family or conference)
- If you have a job
- Your arrival and departure date
- Which countries you have visited in the past 30 days
In addition to this information, you should indicate if you have ever been convicted of a criminal offence. You must also inform if you plan to use New Zealand's healthcare facilities. Finally, you will be asked whether you intend to import any products into New Zealand and if you wish to make any customs declarations.
The NZeTA for New Zealand
Travellers going to New Zealand for holiday or for a business trip should apply for a NZeTA or a visa for New Zealand in advance. Most travellers with a European passport are eligible for the NZeTA. The NZeTA is a digital travel authorization with a validity period of two years. If you apply, you should do it well in advance of departure to avoid problems during your trip. All travellers, except those with New Zealand or Australian citizenship, must have a valid NZeTA or visa before checking in on their flight.
Difference between the Traveller Declaration and the NZeTA
In order to apply for the NZeTA and the New Zealand Traveller Declaration, you need to use two different forms. The NZeTA application costs £99.95. On the contrary, filling in the declaration is free of charge. You can easily apply for the NZeTA via this website. After completing the application form and paying the fee, you must upload a clear ID photo of yourself or of the traveller for whom you are applying for the NZeTA. The NZeTA is normally approved in 5 days on average.