Easier Entry to New Zealand for Pacific Visitors from Australia

From 3 November 2025, new travel rules will allow Pacific Islands Forum passport holders to enter New Zealand from Australia without applying for a visa. Instead, eligible travellers can use the convenient New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) for short-term visits. This change, launched as a 12-month trial, aims to strengthen regional relationships and make travel more accessible for Pacific communities.

Who Can Benefit From the New Travel Rules?

These rules apply only to citizens of Pacific Islands Forum countries travelling directly from Australia. Eligible nations include:

• Federated States of Micronesia

• Fiji

• Kiribati

• Nauru

• Palau

• Papua New Guinea

• Republic of the Marshall Islands

• Samoa

• Solomon Islands

• Tonga

• Tuvalu

• Vanuatu

The new NZeTA pathway helps Pacific nationals travel more freely while maintaining New Zealand’s security and border standards.

Core Requirements for Pacific Passport Holders

To enter New Zealand under this new NZeTA initiative, travellers must:

• Depart from Australia

• Hold a valid Pacific Islands Forum passport

• Have an eligible Australian visa at departure

• Obtain a valid NZeTA before their flight

Travellers must also meet New Zealand’s standard entry rules:

• Be in good health

• Be of good character

• Have a genuine purpose for visiting

• Show sufficient funds for their stay

• Provide proof of departure plans

Eligible Australian Visas for NZeTA Travel

Only specific Australian visas allow Pacific passport holders to enter New Zealand under the NZeTA arrangement. The approved categories include a broad range of visas, such as:

• Business & Investment Visas (UR160, UR161, UR162, EB188, UC457, PE494, and others)

• Family & Partner Visas (UF309, UK820, GH870, UU884, UP461)

• Student & Guardian Visas (TU500, TU590)

• Skilled & Regional Work Visas (VF476, VC485, SP489, PS491)

• Temporary, Visitor, and Holiday Visas (TZ417, US462, FA600, TV651)

Travellers should confirm their Australian visa is on the official eligibility list before applying for an NZeTA.

Key Benefits of Travelling With an NZeTA

With an approved NZeTA, eligible Pacific visitors can:

• Enter New Zealand visa-free from Australia

• Enjoy a stay of up to 3 months each time you enter.

• Make multiple trips while the NZeTA is valid

• Transit through NZ for up to 24 hours without an additional visa

Important: An NZeTA does not allow travellers to work for a New Zealand employer.

How to Apply for an NZeTA

Applications opened on 27 October 2025. Travel under this scheme starts from 3 November 2025. Anyone wishing to arrive before that date must apply for a standard visa.

Application Steps

1. Apply through the official NZeTA mobile app or the NZeTA website.

2. Make sure to apply at least 72 hours prior to your departure.

3. Pay the required NZeTA fees online.

New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD)

All travellers must complete the NZ Traveller Declaration before boarding.
This form, available online from 24 hours before departure, captures essential health, customs, and travel information.

You can access it on the NZ Traveller Declaration website.

Why This Trial Matters

This new initiative promotes stronger Pacific–New Zealand connections, supports family visits, boosts regional travel, and provides a simplified border process for Pacific nationals living in or travelling via Australia.

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