New Zealander Passport

The citizens of New Zealand can visit 143 countries without a visa.

New Zealander passport holders also have access to get 37 e-visas or 23 visas on arrival .

New Zealand has a population of 5.1M people and the capital is Wellington 🇳🇿.

Visa-free map

Nearby countries.

The nearest visa free countries to visit for New Zealander passport holders are New Caledonia, Fiji, Vanuatu, Niue, Wallis and Futuna and Cook Islands .

Visa free countries

So, where can New Zealanders travel without a visa? We have listed all the countries where New Zealand citizens can travel visa-free, eliminating the hassle of visa paperwork.

  • 🇦🇱 Albania (90 days)
  • 🇦🇩 Andorra (N/A)
  • 🇦🇹 Austria (90 days)
  • 🇧🇾 Belarus (30 days)
  • 🇧🇪 Belgium (90 days)
  • 🇧🇦 Bosnia and Herzegovina (90 days)
  • 🇧🇬 Bulgaria (90 days)
  • 🇭🇷 Croatia (90 days)
  • 🇨🇾 Cyprus (90 days)
  • 🇩🇰 Denmark (90 days)
  • 🇪🇪 Estonia (90 days)
  • 🇫🇮 Finland (90 days)
  • 🇫🇷 France (90 days)
  • 🇩🇪 Germany (90 days)
  • 🇬🇷 Greece (90 days)
  • 🇭🇺 Hungary (90 days)
  • 🇮🇸 Iceland (90 days)
  • 🇮🇪 Ireland (3 months)
  • 🇮🇹 Italy (90 days)
  • 🇱🇻 Latvia (90 days)
  • 🇱🇮 Liechtenstein (90 days)
  • 🇱🇹 Lithuania (90 days)
  • 🇱🇺 Luxembourg (90 days)
  • 🇲🇹 Malta (90 days)
  • 🇲🇩 Moldova (90 days)
  • 🇲🇨 Monaco (N/A)
  • 🇲🇪 Montenegro (90 days)
  • 🇳🇱 Netherlands (90 days)
  • 🇲🇰 North Macedonia (90 days)
  • 🇳🇴 Norway (90 days)
  • 🇵🇱 Poland (90 days)
  • 🇵🇹 Portugal (90 days)
  • 🇷🇴 Romania (90 days)
  • 🇸🇲 San Marino (N/A)
  • 🇷🇸 Serbia (90 days)
  • 🇸🇰 Slovakia (90 days)
  • 🇸🇮 Slovenia (90 days)
  • 🇪🇸 Spain (90 days)
  • 🇸🇪 Sweden (90 days)
  • 🇨🇭 Switzerland (90 days)
  • 🇺🇦 Ukraine (90 days)
  • 🇬🇧 United Kingdom (6 months)
  • 🇻🇦 Vatican City (N/A)
  • 🇽🇰 Kosovo (90 days)
  • 🇫🇴 Faroe Islands (N/A)
  • 🇬🇮 Gibraltar (N/A)
  • 🇦🇴 Angola (30 days)
  • 🇧🇼 Botswana (90 days)
  • 🇸🇿 Eswatini (30 days)
  • 🇬🇲 Gambia (90 days)
  • 🇱🇸 Lesotho (14 days)
  • 🇲🇼 Malawi (30 days)
  • 🇲🇺 Mauritius (90 days)
  • 🇲🇦 Morocco (3 months)
  • 🇳🇦 Namibia (3 months)
  • 🇿🇦 South Africa (90 days)
  • 🇹🇳 Tunisia (3 months)
  • 🇿🇲 Zambia (30 days)
  • 🇾🇹 Mayotte (3 months)
  • 🇷🇪 Réunion (3 months)
  • 🇦🇬 Antigua and Barbuda (6 months)
  • 🇦🇷 Argentina (90 days)
  • 🇧🇸 Bahamas (3 months)
  • 🇧🇧 Barbados (6 months)
  • 🇧🇿 Belize (N/A)
  • 🇧🇴 Bolivia (90 days)
  • 🇧🇷 Brazil (90 days)
  • 🇨🇦 Canada (6 months)
  • 🇨🇱 Chile (90 days)
  • 🇨🇴 Colombia (90 days)
  • 🇨🇷 Costa Rica (90 days)
  • 🇩🇲 Dominica (6 months)
  • 🇩🇴 Dominican Republic (90 days)
  • 🇪🇨 Ecuador (90 days)
  • 🇸🇻 El Salvador (3 months)
  • 🇬🇩 Grenada (3 months)
  • 🇬🇹 Guatemala (90 days)
  • 🇬🇾 Guyana (3 months)
  • 🇭🇹 Haiti (3 months)
  • 🇭🇳 Honduras (3 months)
  • 🇯🇲 Jamaica (N/A)
  • 🇲🇽 Mexico (180 days)
  • 🇳🇮 Nicaragua (90 days)
  • 🇵🇦 Panama (90 days)
  • 🇵🇾 Paraguay (90 days)
  • 🇵🇪 Peru (183 days)
  • 🇰🇳 Saint Kitts and Nevis (3 months)
  • 🇱🇨 Saint Lucia (6 weeks)
  • 🇻🇨 Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (3 month)
  • 🇸🇷 Suriname (90 days)
  • 🇺🇸 United States (90 days)
  • 🇺🇾 Uruguay (3 months)
  • 🇻🇪 Venezuela (90 days)
  • 🇬🇱 Greenland (N/A)
  • 🇬🇫 French Guiana (3 months)
  • 🇵🇲 Saint Pierre and Miquelon (3 months)
  • 🇦🇼 Aruba (30 days, extendable to 180 days)
  • Caribbean Netherlands (90 days. Includes Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba.)
  • 🇨🇼 Curaçao (90 days)
  • 🇸🇽 Sint Maarten (90 days)
  • 🇦🇮 Anguilla (3 months)
  • 🇧🇲 Bermuda (Up to 6 months, decided on arrival)
  • 🇻🇬 British Virgin Islands (30 days, extensions possible)
  • 🇰🇾 Cayman Islands (6 months)
  • 🇫🇰 Falkland Islands (A visitor permit is normally issued as a stamp in the passport on arrival, The maximum validity period is 1 month.)
  • 🇲🇸 Montserrat (6 months)
  • 🇹🇨 Turks and Caicos Islands (90 days)
  • 🇵🇷 Puerto Rico (Under the Visa Waiver Program, for 90 days on arrival from overseas for 2 years. ESTA required.)
  • 🇦🇲 Armenia (180 days)
  • 🇧🇳 Brunei (30 days)
  • 🇬🇪 Georgia (1 year)
  • 🇮🇱 Israel (3 months)
  • 🇯🇵 Japan (90 days)
  • 🇰🇿 Kazakhstan (30 days)
  • 🇰🇬 Kyrgyzstan (60 days)
  • 🇲🇾 Malaysia (3 months)
  • 🇲🇳 Mongolia (30 days)
  • 🇴🇲 Oman (14 days / 90 days)
  • 🇵🇭 Philippines (30 days)
  • 🇶🇦 Qatar (30 days)
  • 🇸🇬 Singapore (90 days)
  • 🇹🇯 Tajikistan (30 days)
  • 🇹🇭 Thailand (30 days)
  • 🇹🇷 Turkey (3 months)
  • 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates (30 days)
  • 🇺🇿 Uzbekistan (30 days)
  • 🇵🇸 Palestine (Arrival by sea to Gaza Strip not allowed.)
  • 🇹🇼 Taiwan (90 days)
  • 🇭🇰 Hong Kong (90 days)
  • 🇲🇴 Macau (90 days)
  • 🇦🇺 Australia (Indefinitely)
  • 🇫🇯 Fiji (4 months)
  • 🇰🇮 Kiribati (30 days)
  • 🇫🇲 Micronesia (30 days)
  • 🇻🇺 Vanuatu (30 days)
  • 🇨🇰 Cook Islands (90 days)
  • 🇳🇺 Niue (30 days)
  • 🇵🇫 French Polynesia (90 days within 180 days)
  • 🇳🇨 New Caledonia (3 months)
  • 🇼🇫 Wallis and Futuna (3 months)
  • 🇵🇳 Pitcairn Islands (14 days visa free and landing fee 35 USD or tax of 5 USD if not going ashore.)
  • 🇬🇺 Guam (45 days)
  • 🇲🇵 Northern Mariana Islands (45 days)

This data has been sourced from Wikipedia and was last updated on 4/1/2024.

  • Fiji visa free countries
  • Tonga visa free countries
  • Vanuatu visa free countries
  • Before you travel to New Zealand

To board your flight or cruise to New Zealand you need a valid passport or travel document, and have the right visa or an NZeTA.

Your journey to New Zealand

Protect yourself from immigration scams, new zealand electronic travel authority (nzeta), check if you need an nzeta or visa, travellers who do not need an nzeta, arriving by cruise ship, transit passengers, visa waiver countries and territories, transit visa waiver countries, paying the international visitor conservation and tourism levy (ivl).

Arriving in New Zealand

  • If you are a premium loyalty programme member
  • Visiting New Zealand on business

Checking in for your trip

When you check in you must show that you:

  • have a valid passport or travel document, and
  • hold the right visa or an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority).

Check your passport

You may not be allowed to check in if your passport is not valid for travel to New Zealand. Check that it will not expire until:

  • 3 months after the date you plan to leave New Zealand, or
  • 1 month after the date you plan to leave New Zealand — if your passport was issued by a country that has a New Zealand embassy or consulate that issues passports of that country.

Embassies - Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade

If you live in New Zealand permanently — for example, if you have a resident visa — your passport only needs to be valid for travel to New Zealand.

Make sure that your passport has not been:

  • reported as lost or stolen, or
  • invalidated by the government that issued it.

If you need an NZeTA

You must hold an NZeTA if you are boarding a flight or cruise that leaves for New Zealand, and you:

  • are visiting on a passport from a visa waiver country — that is, a country whose passport holders do not need to get a visa before they travel to New Zealand
  • are a cruise ship passenger
  • are passing through Auckland International Airport to another country and travelling on a passport from a visa waiver country or a transit visa waiver country
  • are passing through Auckland International Airport as a transit passenger to or from Australia, or
  • have a permanent resident visa for Australia that lets you return to Australia from another country. 

If you do not need an NZeTA

You do not need an NZeTA if you:

  • hold a visa for New Zealand
  • are an Australian or New Zealand citizen travelling on an Australian or New Zealand passport, or
  • are a New Zealand citizen travelling on a passport that has a New Zealand citizen endorsement.

Permanent residents of visa waiver countries

Holding a permanent resident visa for a visa waiver country is not evidence of your citizenship.

If you hold a Permanent Resident Card (green card) for the USA (a visa waiver country) you would still need a visa to travel to New Zealand — unless the passport you hold is from a visa waiver country. Your eligibility to travel to New Zealand without a visa depends on the passport that you are travelling on.

If you intend to travel to New Zealand on a passport issued by a visa waiver country you:

  • may travel to New Zealand without applying for a visa first
  • still must get an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before you travel.

If you are going to travel to New Zealand on a passport from a country not on the visa waiver list, you need a visa before you travel.

Requesting an NZeTA

You request an NZeTA using our mobile app or online form. You may also need to pay an International Visitor Tourism and Conservation Levy (IVL).

Information about NZeTA

Paying the International Visitor Tourism and Conservation Levy

Correct errors on your NZeTA

After your NZeTA is approved, you can only correct some of the details such as your:

  • passport number — for example, if you had to replace your passport
  • email address, or
  • small spelling mistakes or numerical errors.

Use our online form to request these changes to your NZeTA.

How to request a change to your NZeTA

If you want to make other changes, you must request a new NZeTA.

If you have a visa to come to New Zealand

If you have a visa for New Zealand, before you leave, check that:

  • your passport details match the details on your eVisa (if you have an eVisa), and
  • you have the right visa for what you plan to do in New Zealand.

Contact us immediately if there is an error in the details listed in your eVisa.

If you travel on a different passport

If you do not plan to use the same passport to travel to New Zealand that you used when you applied for your visa, you must apply to transfer your visa to the new passport before you travel. Your visa details are linked to the passport you used to apply so if they do not match, your travel may be delayed.

Transfer your visa to a new passport

I'm a New Zealand citizen but travel on my foreign passport

Check your visa conditions

Check your visa to find out what the conditions are. You may not be allowed to enter New Zealand if you cannot provide evidence that you meet the conditions of your visa. For example, the money you must have to live on in New Zealand can vary depending on the visa you have.

Check the conditions of your visa

Bring evidence to support your travel

Gather the documents you need. Bring with you:

  • a copy of your eVisa letter (unless you have a visa label in the passport you are travelling on), and
  • evidence that you can meet the conditions of your visa — for example you can use:
  • your travel ticket to show that you are planning to leave New Zealand, and
  • bank statements to show that you have enough money to live on while you are here.

Do not buy your ticket before we grant you a visa or your application is approved in principle. You may lose the cost of your ticket or have to rearrange your travel if there is a delay in processing your application or we do not grant you a visa.

Checks we need to do 

As well as checking your passport and visa, there are other things we need to check.

Before you board your plane or cruise ship

When you check in to travel to New Zealand, we receive information from your airline or cruise line that we use to check our records to make sure you are allowed to travel here. 

How we collect and use information about people flying in and out of NZ

We may need to ask you some questions before you board or when you arrive. This applies to everyone, including people who already hold a visa, an NZeTA or are in transit.

Checking your reasons for travelling

As well as checking your passport and visa, we check that you have a genuine reason for coming to New Zealand.

Genuine intentions to visit, study or work in New Zealand

If you do not answer the questions truthfully, you may not be allowed to come here.

If you are refused entry to New Zealand

Onward travel

We may want to see your ticket showing when you will leave New Zealand. We may ask to see other travel tickets or visas if you leave to go to a country that you:

  • need to have a visa or onward travel ticket for, or
  • are not a citizen of — you need to show that you have the right to enter that country.

We do not need to see this if:

  • your eVisa says 'return/onward travel not required'
  • your eVisa says 'the holder of this visa is sponsored', or
  • you hold a current resident or permanent resident visa for New Zealand.

Supporting yourself in New Zealand

We may want to see evidence of how you will support yourself financially while you are in New Zealand.

Your character

We may want to check that you are of good character and will comply with the conditions of your visa. This could include questions about any convictions you have or whether you have been deported from another country.

Good character for temporary visas

Good character for residence visas

Your health

We may ask for evidence about your health. Before you can enter New Zealand you must be in good health or be granted a medical waiver.

Who needs an x-ray or medical examination

Medical waivers for visa applications

If you are coming to New Zealand on a Medical Treatment Visitor Visa we may ask to see evidence about your health.

Medical Treatment Visitor Visa

Immigration scams to watch out for, and how to protect yourself from these scams and visa fraud.

Some people can use an NZeTA to travel to New Zealand without applying for a visa first. This depends on your passport and if you are visiting or only transiting.

Some people can use an NZeTA to travel to New Zealand, and others need to get a visa.

Visa holders and some other travellers do not need an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before they travel to New Zealand.

If you plan to arrive in New Zealand by cruise ship and do not have a visa, you must hold an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority).

Information about transit visas and criteria for passing through New Zealand to another country.

Passport holders of some countries and territories do not have to apply for a visa before they travel to NZ but must hold an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority).

Citizens of some countries do not have to apply for a visa before passing through New Zealand as a transit passenger but must request an NZeTA.

Many tourists, people on working holidays, and some students and workers coming to New Zealand must pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZD $35.

Before you travel

Avoid surprises — before you go, find and check your passport, pay your fines and check if there are any special travel requirements for the countries you’re visiting.

Documents you’ll need to leave NZ

You’ll need a passport. If your passport is damaged or close to expiring, you might not be allowed to enter some countries.

Check your passport is valid

The name in your passport must match your tickets and your officially registered name.

Before you travel, check if the country you’re visiting has special rules.

Check visa and entry requirements for your destination

Travel advisories

Travel advisories from the NZ government cover security and safety concerns in 137 places around the world.

The SafeTravel website has tips to help you stay safe overseas, what to do if things go wrong, and how the New Zealand government can or cannot help.

Register with SafeTravel

SafeTravel is the official registration facility for New Zealanders travelling or living overseas.

If you’re registered, SafeTravel can:

  • contact you if there is a major incident overseas
  • send you updates about emergencies, natural disasters or terrorist attacks.

Get travel insurance

You should get comprehensive travel insurance before heading away. You need to make sure it covers everywhere you’re going, and everything you plan to do.

If you do not have travel insurance, you’ll have to pay any overseas medical costs yourself, including the cost of returning to New Zealand.

Unpaid fines

If you have unpaid fines and try to leave or come into New Zealand, the police can stop you at the airport. You will be allowed to pay by credit card over the phone with a registrar.

If you’re travelling in the next 48 hours and you have fines or reparation you have not paid, call 0800 729 677 to pay with your credit card.

If you get a benefit

You must let Work and Income know your travel plans and your reasons for travel before you leave New Zealand. Partners travelling must also let them know. If you do not, your benefit might stop the day after you leave.

Going overseas to live

If you get NZ Super or Veteran’s Pension

You need to tell Seniors Services that you’re going overseas before you leave NZ.

  • If you travel overseas
  • Living overseas if you get NZ Super or Veteran’s Pension

If you have a student loan

If you do not meet your repayment obligations, you could be arrested when you return to NZ. Make sure you keep up your student loan payments while you’re overseas or you could be charged interest and penalties.

Going overseas when you have a student loan

If you pay tax

You might need to file a tax return (IR3) that covers the period up to the date you leave NZ. You may also need to file a tax return at a later time showing details of any income you’ve earned overseas or from an NZ source.

Find out if you should file a tax return

If you have tax debt, contact Inland Revenue to discuss the options for paying your debt. The Australian Tax Office can help recover tax debt owed by New Zealanders who move to Australia.

What to do if you have a tax debt

If you pay child support

You must contact IR.

Child support payments

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Last updated 15 October 2021

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Date printed 10 April 2024

Before you travel I mua i tō haerenga

Backpacker Mountains

Get organised before you travel to make your arrival into New Zealand as easy as possible.

New Zealand entry requirements

Check that you have the right documentation to enter New Zealand, including a valid passport and visa or NZeTA, if required.

Valid passport

You must have a valid passport to enter New Zealand. Check its expiry date to make sure it meets the rules for acceptable travel documents. If you are a New Zealand citizen and you need to renew your passport, make sure you allow plenty of time before you travel.

Renew or replace your adult passport – Te Kāwanatanga o Aotearoa New Zealand Government

Before you travel to New Zealand – Immigration New Zealand

Visa or NZeTA, if required

If you are not a New Zealand or Australian citizen, you may need to apply for a visa or an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) to enter New Zealand.

Check if you need a visitor visa or an NZeTA – Te Kāwanatanga o Aotearoa New Zealand Government

Information about NZeTA – Immigration New Zealand

Travel insurance

When coming to New Zealand to visit, study or work, you are strongly encouraged to get travel insurance. Some visa categories require you to hold insurance as a condition of your visa.

Before you buy travel insurance, check what cover it provides. New Zealand has reciprocal health agreements with Australia and the United Kingdom.

Reciprocal health agreements – Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand

What you can't bring into New Zealand

There are strict rules for what you can and cannot bring into New Zealand. If you do not declare prohibited or restricted items, you could be fined or prosecuted. This includes items in your checked in luggage and carry-on bags.

Check if you can bring or send an item to NZ – Mānatu Ahu Matua Ministry for Primary Industries

Prohibited and restricted items – Te Mana Ārai o Aotearoa New Zealand Customs Service

Check to see if items or products you are bringing into NZ need a CITES permit (CITES protects many plants and animals globally) – Te Papa Atawhai Department of Conservation 

Travel restrictions for New Zealand

There are no longer any COVID-19 related travel restrictions for New Zealand. You do not need to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination to enter New Zealand.

Unite against COVID-19

New Zealand Traveller Declaration: Before you travel

Kia ora, Travellers arriving into Aotearoa New Zealand by air need to complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration. Children and infants need their own declaration too. It’s free, takes about 10 minutes, and you can do it on your mobile device or computer. You can complete your digital declaration within 24 hours of starting your trip to New Zealand.

Go to TravellerDeclaration.govt.nz or download the NZTD app.

Remember, check if you need a visa or NZeTA to enter New Zealand.

Support and resources in other languages .

Last updated: 10th July 2023

Visa-Free Countries For New Zealand Passport Holders [2024]

passport free travel nz

Millions visit New Zealand yearly to explore its breathtaking views or walk the paths we know from the Lord of the Rings. But beautiful as it is, the island may leave local Kiwis yearning for adventures.

Are you thinking about a trip overseas, way beyond dropping by your Down Under neighbor? Luckily, one of the New Zealand passport benefits is that it allows you to travel visa-free to many places. Read on to discover: 

NZ passport visa-free countries: A complete list [2024]

What if your destination country isn’t on the list.

Without further ado, let’s answer the question at hand: Where can New Zealand passport holders travel without a visa?

Currently, over 77% of NZ’s population over the age of 18 either already has a passport or is eligible to obtain one. If you’re in this group, we’ve got great news—New Zealand passport power is one of the highest ( ranked #6 ), giving you visa-free access to 116 countries . 

Look at the map below to see all available destinations.

Visa-Free Countries For NZ Passport Holders

NZ passport visa-free countries list.

How long can you stay in a visa-free country?

In most cases, NZ passport holders can stay in the countries marked in green for up to 90 days . There are, however, exceptions:

Pro tip: Do you have an APEC Business Travel Card? You’re allowed to travel visa-free (for business purposes) to a select number of countries stated on the back of your card.

Even if you want to visit one of the places that don’t allow free entry to Kiwi passport holders, nothing’s lost just yet. Most places let you get a Visa on Arrival (VoA), eVisa, or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) that you can complete online in no time. Only 24 countries require you to apply for a traditional travel visa. 

Before we discuss these four types in detail, study the map below to check which type of visa you’ll need to get.

Visa Exempt Countries for New Zealand Citizens

NZ passport visa required countries list.

Visa on Arrival (VoA) or Electronic Visa (eVisa)

Several countries (e.g., Indonesia, Maldives, and Qatar) require all NZ passport holders to obtain either a VoA or an eVisa. How do they work?

  • Visa on Arrival: VoAs are granted for tourists upon arrival at your destination. Simply go to a designated immigration officer, hand in the required documents, and pay a fee. Remember to examine which documents you must show to obtain a VoA, as it varies depending on the country. Usually, you’ll need a valid NZ passport, a return ticket, and a  booking confirmation
  • eVisa: If you favor peace of mind, you can apply for an eVisa before you set out on your international journey—especially if you have a layover in one of the countries we mentioned. To get an eVisa, all you need to do is apply for one online prior to your departure date and fill out a form

Pro tip: Double-check the official information on a government website of the country. Some places require you to apply for an eVisa even a month before your arrival.

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

As opposed to a travel visa, countries like Canada or the US require you to get an eTA to be allowed entry based on their visa waiver agreement. The application process is a breeze—

All you need to do is submit a biometric photo (compliant with the country’s official regulations), a valid passport, and pay a fee. 

Ready for your trip to Canada or the US? To apply for an eTA, you’ll need a recent picture compliant with stringent official requirements. Get one right now with our Passport Photo Booth App for iOS or Passport Photo Maker App for Android —in 3 minutes or less!

A photo uploaded to Passport Photo Online’s web app via an internet browser on a laptop and turned into a compliant passport photograph in 3 seconds.

Tourist visa

Lastly, the “red countries” are those you cannot enter only with your NZ passport—you’ll need to apply for a visa. As such processes often look very different, it’s best you visit these countries’ government websites for details. 

How many countries can you visit with a New Zealand passport?

NZ passport holders can freely visit 116 countries ( click here for a complete list ). Additionally, many countries offer a Visa on Arrival for New Zealanders—a visa you can get upon arrival for a fee.

Do NZ citizens need a visa for Dubai?

No, they don’t. The United Emirates is one of the visa-free countries for New Zealand passport holders. You can visit Dubai only with your passport for up to 30 days.

Do I need a visa for Norfolk Island?

Yes, you do. All New Zealand citizens (and Aussies!) need a tourist visa to enter the Norfolk Island territory. It’s best to apply for your visa at the nearest embassy. 

Visa-free countries for New Zealand citizens: recap

Where can you travel without a visa as a Kiwi passport holder? As of writing, you’re eligible to enter 116 countries only with your passport in hand, including most European countries and South America.

Additionally, over 50 countries give New Zealand nationals a convenient option to get a Visa on Arrival for a fee—allowing you to skip the process of applying for a traditional tourist visa beforehand.

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passport free travel nz

Sylwia is a skilled writer with a BA in English Studies and a knack for storytelling. For the past two years, she’s been writing captivating articles for international companies, turning her lifelong passion into a career.

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Page updated:7/2/23 Print page

A passport is required for travel to all countries, including Australia. If you are planning to travel and your passport is due to expire in less than a year, you may need to renew your passport. Some countries require that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended departure from the country you are visiting. Check with Embassies of the countries you are planning to visit for validity requirements. You should also make sure you have at least one clear visa page in your passport for immigration stamps. Your passport should be signed. Signatures are not required if the passport holder is unable to sign or is a child under 10 years.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade does not issue passports.

How do I get a passport in New Zealand?

The Department of Internal Affairs issues passports. Their website provides information about passports, and application forms .

How do I get a passport overseas?

Only the Passport Offices in London, Sydney or New Zealand can issue a passport.

In an emergency, a New Zealand Embassy overseas may be able to issue an Emergency Travel Document (ETD).  Please note this service is not available through our offices in Austria, Barbados, Iraq, Niue, New Caledonia, Myanmar, Timor-Leste, United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia or Poland.   People requiring assistance in those locations should go to http://www.passports.govt.nz/ for further information on applying for a standard New Zealand passport.

In addition our offices in Guangzhou and Honolulu are not able to issue Emergency Travel Documents, however an ETD can be obtained from Beijing and Los Angeles.

How do I get a visa for another country?

You should check with your travel agent or with the Embassy or High Commissions of the countries you intend to visit or transit to find out their visa / entry requirements and if you need to apply for a visa. You should do this well before your planned departure date to ensure you have the correct visa. The New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade can not provide this information. If you do not have the required visa, you may be refused entry to a country. Having a visa does not necessarily guarantee entry into another country; this decision rests with immigration officials.

How do I get a visa for New Zealand?

Check Immigration New Zealand for information .

Tips for keeping your passport secure

Make a note of your passport number, take a photocopy of the personal details page, and keep this separately from the passport.

  • keep your passport in a secure place
  • don’t carry your passport in your pocket
  • have an additional means of photo identification to carry with you
  • never hand your passport over as a guarantee
  • if your passport is lost or stolen overseas, report it to the police and then contact the nearest New Zealand Embassy.

Working Holiday Schemes

Working Holiday Schemes are reciprocal arrangements that allow people aged 18 to 30 years, who are not accompanied by children, to spend up to 12 months on holiday in the host country. You can find more details on Working Holiday Schemes from the Embassy or High Commissions of the countries you intend to visit or from the relevant country pages in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade's main website .  

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Related links

  • Foreign embassies in New Zealand
  • Immigration New Zealand
  • Working holiday schemes

Other pages in this section:

Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade 195 Lambton Quay Private Bag 18 901 Wellington 5045 New Zealand

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Covid-19 travel safety and information

Waiting at Auckland Airport

Know what to expect while travelling and follow some simple guidelines to stay safe in New Zealand.

On this page, you'll find helpful information on what you need to know:

Before travelling to New Zealand

  • When in New Zealand

Leaving New Zealand

1. check your eligibility.

Before planning your travel to New Zealand, make sure you are eligible for travel, meet the visa requirements and have taken the right steps.

Everyone entering New Zealand needs to complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) (opens in new window) including babies and children. It’s free and you can complete it on the NZTD website or by downloading the NZTD app ahead of your travel.

2. New Zealand’s vaccination requirements

COVID-19 vaccination and testing requirements for all travellers arriving in the country, including air crew, are no longer required.

However, all travellers are strongly encouraged to remain up to date with their vaccinations before travelling to New Zealand. Vaccination remains a significant tool for preventing infection, reducing COVID-19 symptoms and severe illness.

3. Pre-departure test

To enter New Zealand, travellers no longer need to get a pre-departure test. 

4. Other things to consider before leaving 

For peace of mind during your trip in New Zealand, you may also want to consider medical and travel insurance.

When you're in New Zealand

Once you arrive in new zealand.

Antigen tests

Travellers entering New Zealand do not need pre-departure tests or proof of COVID-19 vaccination to enter New Zealand. Check with your travel provider as they may still require proof of vaccination. If you have COVID-19 symptoms when you arrive in New Zealand, it is recommended to take a rapid antigen test (RATs). COVID-19 tests are free and widely available in New Zealand. Find more information on how to get a free RAT or PCR test (opens in new window) . Find more  information on taking your test (opens in new window) .

COVID-19 safety practices in place

With COVID-19 case numbers falling, a highly vaccinated population, and increased access to antiviral medicines to treat COVID-19, New Zealand has removed most COVID-19 restrictions. It is still recommended to practice healthy habits when travelling around New Zealand.

Practice healthy habits

  • While travelling around New Zealand, you should try to physically distance yourself in airports or busy transport hubs.
  • Wearing a face mask is no longer required, although masks are still encouraged in some places such as hospitals.
  • Find further information on face mask requirements (opens in new window) here.

What to do if you develop symptoms

  • Find a COVID-19 testing centre (opens in new window) in your current location
  • Order a rapid antigen tests (RATs) home testing kit
  • Isolate for seven days. Find more information on self-isolation requirements (opens in new window) .
  • Find more information on what to do if you  test positive while travelling (opens in new window) .

Helpful links

  • New Zealand emergency information and numbers
  • List of public hospitals in New Zealand (opens in new window)
  • Testing centre locations (opens in new window) across New Zealand

Check entry requirements

The country you are travelling to may have entry requirements in place. Be sure to check the requirements of the country you are travelling to.

  • the official website of the country you wish to enter
  • that country’s diplomatic representative in New Zealand
  • More information if you require a pre-departure test before leaving (opens in new window) New Zealand
  • List of testing centre locations (opens in new window) in New Zealand

More information on travelling to NZ

If you’re thinking about visiting New Zealand, passport and visa organisation is key.

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Flights to New Zealand long-arrow-right

Adventure through this stunning National Park

Travel agents and agencies long-arrow-right

What came out of first day talks between Anthony Albanese and NZ PM Chris Hipkins?

Chris Hipkins addressing a press conference.

Passport-free travel between Australia and New Zealand is still at least a year off, after talks between prime ministers Anthony Albanese and Chris Hipkins in Wellington.

Key points:

  • Anthony Albanese sat down with New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins in Wellington on Wednesday
  • The pair looked at possible trans-Tasman travel and visa options to create "seamless" movement between the two countries
  • Mr Hipkins offered his views on the Australia's Voice to Parliament proposal

The annual leader's summit in the Kiwi capital coincided with the 50th anniversary of the trans-Tasman travel arrangement, allowing freedom of movement between the two countries for its citizens. 

But removing restrictions altogether is a way off, despite the leaders committing to trying to streamline the travel process.

"We haven't looked at a trans-Tasman passport. What we are looking at is making a seamless experience of going through from country to country," Mr Albanese said.

"So, that might look at, for example, how smart gates could operate and be complimentary, our systems, so that before you get on a plane, in either country, it's already recognised that you're OK to come in and therefore, can just go through smart gates in a seamless way and in a timely way."

Earlier in the year, Australia announced new pathways to citizenship for Kiwis living in the country, and there has already been a surge in applications.

"There have already been thousands take up — more than 10,000 — and I expect that there will be many thousands more," the Australian prime minister said.

"This brings into a lot of alignment with what New Zealand does for Australians.

"That's why it's the right thing to do."

'Part of the Pacific family'

While focusing on the trans-Tasman relationship, the two leaders also lifted their gaze towards the broader Pacific and tried to steer small island states away from China's overtures.

"When Australia provides aid and support to our neighbours there aren't strings attached," Mr Albanese said.

"We do that because we are part of the Pacific family and that's important.

Chris Hipkins and Anthony Albanese standing at podiums at a press conference.

"So we'll continue to work constructively. And that work is aided if we're working together in the region, which we certainly will continue to do, and I think in an even more concerted than we have in the past."

The two leaders discussed the AUKUS defence and security pact between Australia, the US and the UK, which is allowing Australia to acquire nuclear-powered submarines.

Whether the New Zealand government joins the agreement in some way, shape or form in the future remains a topic of consideration.

"I think there's no question that we have a different position around nuclear, nuclear propulsion is also covered by New Zealand's nuclear-free arrangements," Mr Hipkins said.

 "But in terms of military, we were open to conversations with the AUKUS partners around what New Zealand's involvement in some of those things might look like."

NZ PM weighs in on Voice to Parliament

While reluctant to delve into matters of Australia's domestic politics, Mr Hipkins did offer some views on the recognition and respect of New Zealand's First Nations and suggested it could be instructive for Australia as the Voice to Parliament debate continues.

"The debates in New Zealand and Australia are very different starting points. And I certainly respect the fact that the referendum in Australia is a matter for the Australian people, and I don't intend to proffer a comment on that," Mr Hipkins said.

"I can certainly speak to the New Zealand experience.

"I'm firmly of the view that the process of reconciliation that New Zealand has been going through for a number of decades has been overwhelmingly positive for New Zealand.

"That doesn't mean that there haven't been bumps on the road. It doesn't mean they haven't been periods where it's been very controversial.

"But when I look back on some of those controversies … many people look back on them and wonder what was so controversial about them."

'Incredible welcome': Albanese

Earlier, the prime minister was formally welcomed to New Zealand's parliament in central Wellington with a traditional Maori Pōwhiri ceremony.

A solemn-faced Mr Albanese was challenged by a Maori warrior as to whether he came to the building in peace, before following him into the parliament's ballroom.

On social media, the prime minister described the welcome as "incredible".

After signing the official guest book, Mr Albanese was escorted into the House of Representatives by Mr Hipkins and Speaker Adrian Rurawhe.

"Welcome Prime Minister Albanese, it's good to see you here," New Zealand's Opposition Leader Christopher Luxon told the chamber.

"It's a very special relationship that we have with Australia, and it's great that you're here in New Zealand."

Mr Albanese and Mr Hipkins travelled to an official Women's World Cup fan site on the edge of Wellington's harbour after their meeting, before an official dinner at Government House on Wednesday.

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new-zealand-passport-ranking

New Zealand

New zealand passport ranking.

The New Zealand passport currently ranked 6th place on the Guide Passport Index. It provides visa-free access to 189 countries. With a high mobility score it is one of the most desirable passports in the world. New Zealand passport holders have visa-free access and visas on arrival to countries such as Japan, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, USA and the entire European Union. This allows almost instant travel opportunities. New Zealand passport holders do however require a visa to enter about 39 destinations in the world. Some countries where visa is required are China, India, Russia and Cuba.

Saudi Arabia

New Zealand Passport Ranking

The New Zealand passport ranking relative to other global passports is calculated by adding up the number of countries that allow New Zealand passport holders to enter without a visa (i.e. visa-free countries) and those that allow New Zealand passport holders to enter by obtaining a visa on arrival (i.e. visa-on-arrival countries) or an electronic travel authorization (eTA). There are currently a total of 143 New Zealand passport visa-free countries, 39 New Zealand visa-on-arrival countries, and 8 eTA destinations.

Altogether, New Zealand passport holders can enter a total of 189 destinations—either without a visa, through a visa on arrival, or via an eTA. As a result, the New Zealand passport ranks 6 in the world.

Separate from these New Zealand visa-free countries and visa-on-arrival countries, there are 39 additional destinations which New Zealand passport holders either need a physical visa to enter or an eVisa (i.e. visa required countries).

About New Zealand

The island nation of New Zealand is a former British colony consisting of 16 regions. The most important regions are Auckland, Canterbury, Wellington and Waikato. The country is situated in Oceania, South Pacific Ocean, just southeast of Australia. New Zealand is the 4th largest country in Oceania with a surface area of 268,021 square kilometers. Its climate is mostly temperate with some regional differences. The terrain is characterized by mountains with vast coastal plains.

The overall population is over 5 million people. The capital of the country is Wellington. The most populous city is however Auckland with 1.4 million inhabitants. Other major cities are Christchurch and Hamilton. The largest airport is Auckland Airport (AKL) with over 21 million annual passengers. Followed by Christchurch (CHC) with more than 6.9 million yearly passengers. Together they provide flight connections to most destinations in the region and beyond.

New Zealand’s culture is dominated by the history of immigration waves that occurred over the past centuries. There is a multi-cultural and religious mix present in most of the country. The official languages are English and Maori. The legal system is a federal parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarchy. The chief of state is King Charles III. The head of government is the elected Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.

The official currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD) with the current exchange rate being NZD 1.57 to the USD. The country has an open economy, generating a GDP of approximately $193 billion, making it the 2nd largest economy in Oceania. Its citizens have a per capita income of $41,072. The GDP is mostly made up of 2 key sectors, which are services and industry. Some of the main export products are timber, minerals, dairy products, meat, vegetables and wine. New Zealand signed a variety of trading agreements in order to grow trade. China is their most important export partner. Furthermore, tourism plays a large role economically for certain key regions.

New Zealand is filled with a variety of urban and natural tourism destinations and attractions. It is known for its vast wildlife and various national parks. Some of the major destinations include the Fiordland National Park, the Bay of Islands, Queenstown, Lake Taupo, Rotorua and Auckland. The nation has a total of approximately 3.8 million tourists visiting every year with the majority originating from China and Australia.

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Call for passports to be ditched for NZ-Aus travel by next year

NZ passport.

NZ passport.

Tourism industry representatives think it’s time for passports to be ditched for people travelling between Australia and New Zealand.

Chief executive of Australia’s Tourism and Transport Forum (TTF), Margy Osmond, said it’s time to upgrade measures at airports on both sides of the Tasman, meaning people could enter without passports.

"We should use the trans-Tasman border as a test case so we can trial more efficient entry and screening technologies to process incoming passengers," she said.

"These tools are already being used successfully in other countries to simplify air travel, slash travel times and boost security."

It comes as Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese prepares to travel to New Zealand at the end of the week to meet with Prime Minister Chris Hipkins.

When announcing the trip, Hipkins said, "I believe that the trans-Tasman relationship is the strongest it has been in decades".

"In both Australia and Prime Minister Albanese, New Zealand has a close friend and ally, so I'm very pleased to host him here during this year of milestone anniversaries.

"Prime Minister Albanese’s visit is a chance to recognise our past achievements, to celebrate the progress we have made this year and to set ambition for where Australia and New Zealand want to go next."

However, the TTF wants immediate action, calling for a taskforce before the end of August, with the goal of trialling a seamless border by the end of the year.

"Australia was one of the first countries to introduce smart gates and e-passports, but progress has stalled," Osmund said.

The organisation believes formalities at the border could be reduced to just facial recognition technology in order to stop people producing passports, travel documents or boarding passes.

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What to know about Schengen zone, Europe’s ‘border-free’ travel system

Schengen countries allow international travelers to move freely across borders without additional passport checks.

passport free travel nz

Europe’s “border-free” Schengen zone has added travel protections for two more countries, making it easier for more people to explore the southeastern region of the continent.

Romania and Bulgaria partially joined the Schengen area on Sunday, which means visitors who arrive by air or sea from other countries in the zone can cross their borders without an ID check. Land borders will remain subject to ID checks because of opposition led by Austria, which has long cited irregular migration as a concern when it comes to welcoming the two Eastern European states into the Schengen agreement. The move comes more than a decade after Romania and Bulgaria joined the European Union.

The European Commission had previously recommended that Bulgaria and Romania be admitted to join the Schengen zone, starting in 2011 and most recently in 2023. A combination of internal problems in the two countries and opposition from other countries citing irregular migration concerns — especially after the so-called “migrant crisis” of 2015 — meant they were caught in “Schengen purgatory” until now, according to Leon Züllig, a researcher and Schengen expert at Germany’s Justus Liebig University Giessen.

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Follow our news, recent searches, calls grow in malaysia for qr code clearance at johor land checkpoints, paving way for passport-free travel, advertisement.

Singapore’s QR code rollout has cut travel time for commuters, who want Malaysia to do the same ahead of the completion of the Rapid Transit System Link and planned Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone. 

File photo of the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine Complex (BSI CIQ) in Johor Bahru. (Photo: CNA/Zamzahuri Abas)

This audio is AI-generated.

passport free travel nz

JOHOR BAHRU: Malaysian IT analyst Sarguneshwara Subramaniam, who commutes between Johor Bahru and Singapore thrice a week, has endured congestion at the land checkpoints for more than a decade.  

Traffic at the Woodlands Causeway and Tuas Second Link is particularly heavy at this time of the year, as people mark the Qing Ming festival by visiting their ancestors’ graves as well as celebrate Hari Raya Puasa, he said.

In recent weeks, however, the 44-year-old has been pleasantly surprised.

“With the QR code now (implemented) on the Singapore side, travelling has been way smoother than I expected,” said Mr Subramaniam, who works in Singapore and heads north thrice a week to visit his family.

“There’s no handing over (of) any passports – just scan the QR code and wait for the officers to verify your name and identity."

passport free travel nz

Since Singapore’s Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) rolled out its QR code initiative on Mar 19 for drivers on its side of the land border, Mr Subramaniam’s average travel time for a one-way trip has shortened to 90 minutes, from around two hours.

It now takes him and his wife less than 40 seconds to drive through Woodlands Checkpoint, instead of around 90 seconds previously.

“We actually monitored the time taken and were quite pleased,” he said.

Another frequent commuter, Singaporean Murphy Lip, has seen his journey times cut from 90 minutes to just an hour these days. 

“I notice that it’s particularly good for big groups of people travelling in large cars. With the QR code scanners, it takes between 45 and 50 seconds to clear these groups as the officer does not need to flip through the pages of each passport to verify identity,” added the 41-year-old senior cloud engineer, who lives in Malaysia and travels to Singapore for work every alternate day.

Calls for Malaysia to also implement QR code clearance at its land checkpoints with Singapore have grown louder in the wake of positive user feedback to Singapore’s rollout.

Both countries signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Jan 11 to develop a framework for a legally binding agreement on the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (SEZ). A key part of the MOU was exploring passport-free clearance on both sides of the border, and Singapore unilaterally introduced its system last month.

passport free travel nz

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Johor-Singapore SEZ: Passport-free travel hailed as ‘game-changer’ but observers debate size, scope of proposed zone

Malaysia’s federal government has not made any announcement on passport-free clearance at land checkpoints since, but Johor’s state government and businesses are keen to move things forward.

Johor works, transport, infrastructure and communication committee chairman Mohamad Fazli said that he would be meeting the relevant agencies in Singapore after Hari Raya to look at the QR code initiative, news outlet The Star reported on Tuesday (Apr 9).

“We want to see whether the implementation has been successful or not,” Mr Fazli reportedly said. 

“I will compile all the related information and have a discussion with our Immigration director-general after that,” he added.

CNA has asked the Johor immigration department if there are plans to develop passport-free immigration clearance in the short term, ahead of further discussions for the planned SEZ. 

“IT MUST BE DONE NOW”

Mr Andrew Chen, Johor state assemblyman for the Stulang constituency – an area adjacent to the Johor Bahru immigration complex – told CNA it is imperative that Malaysia begins to implement a passport-free clearance system as soon as possible. This would signal the Malaysian government's commitment to the terms of the SEZ, he said.

The Democratic Action Party (DAP) politician explained that Malaysia may not necessarily implement a QR code system like Singapore's, but should consider options such as facial recognition biometric clearance or other methods that would allow passport-free travel when the SEZ comes to fruition. 

DAP is part of the Pakatan Harapan coalition and unity government led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. 

“It is very important that these systems are put in place soon. The agreement to one day implement passport-free travel is there, and Malaysia will honour it,” said Mr Chen, who led a state task force between 2018 and 2020 to ease congestion at the Causeway.

“Smooth traffic flow of people is especially important for the SEZ to be fruitful and for the Malaysian economy to benefit from this bilateral initiative. But it must be done now, ahead of further discussions in regards to the SEZ,” he added.

The authorities should also look at a system – similar to the one to be implemented for the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link – where travellers only need to clear immigration once, suggested Mr Chen.

passport free travel nz

The RTS Link is slated to be completed by end-2026. And while no date has been set for the SEZ, Mr Samuel Tan, executive director of KGV International Property Consultants in Johor, expects the project to boost the number of travellers passing through the land checkpoints to more than half a million a day, up from over 400,000 currently.

The Malaysian government should make QR code clearance a “top priority” to avoid a “bottleneck for commuters”, said Mr Tan.

IS MALAYSIA READY?

But Ms Christina Karl, global immigration leader at Deloitte, noted that Malaysia may be at a different stage from Singapore in the process.

“When considering the implementation of initiatives such as QR code clearance at land and/or air checkpoints, it is crucial to acknowledge and respect the sovereignty of each nation and understand that they may have different priorities, resources and levels of technological readiness,” she said.

“Adopting new technologies can vary significantly based on infrastructure, investment priorities, regulatory frameworks and political considerations, and the number of neighbouring countries which these changes may impact,” said Ms Karl.

That said, she agreed QR code clearance has increased convenience for travellers at Singapore’s land checkpoints. “Removing the human element from the process also allows for increased accuracy and an additional security layer which comes hand in hand with this technology,” she said.

passport free travel nz

Johor Bahru-Singapore RTS Link passes 65% construction milestone on both sides; connecting span complete

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Malaysia economy ministry to coordinate meetings on Johor-Singapore SEZ: PM Anwar

Globally, border control is becoming more seamless, Ms Karl noted.

Travellers have been free to move between 26 countries in the Schengen area in Europe without the need for passport checks at the borders since 1995. This includes nations like Germany, Belgium, France, as well as non-European Union countries Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein. 

The United Arab Emirates is also set to implement facial recognition at its borders and remove the need to produce a passport at the port of entry. 

“The global landscape is evolving rapidly and advancements in technology and societies’ expectations are driving transformations in border control,” said Ms Karl.

Mr Teh Kee Sin, advisor to the South Johor Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SME) Association, acknowledged the Malaysian government will have to put in place infrastructure such as QR code scanners and a centralised app, as well as train immigration officers.

This would take time, he said, but would pay off in reducing congestion and commute times.

passport free travel nz

“Imagine a time in the near future where we do not need to carry our passports in hand to cross the border into Singapore,” said Mr Teh. 

For Mr Subramaniam, precious minutes shaved off per trip add up to countless hours saved by users of the Causeway and Second Link each day.

“When you multiply this by hundreds of thousands a day, it makes a difference,” he said. 

passport free travel nz

IN FOCUS: Johor’s abuzz over a proposed T-shaped integrated transport network that could boost its SEZ with Singapore

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El Salvador Offers Passports to 5,000 Highly Qualified Foreigners

Tico Times

The president of El Salvador, Nayib Bukele, offered 5,000 passports this Saturday to “highly qualified foreigners” such as scientists or philosophers who settle in the country, and who may be eligible for Salvadoran citizenship.

“We are offering 5,000 free passports,” the president stated on his account on the social network X. The passports are offered to “highly qualified foreign scientists, engineers, doctors, artists and philosophers,” he added.

“This represents less than 0.1% of our population, so granting them full citizenship status, including the right to vote, does not pose any problem,” said Bukele.

To the “highly qualified” foreigners who decide to take the Salvadoran passport, the government offers to facilitate their relocation by “guaranteeing 0% taxes and tariffs on the transfer of families and assets,” which include “items of commercial value such as equipment, software, and intellectual property.”

“Despite the small number, their contributions will have a huge impact on our society and the future of our country,” Bukele said, and anticipated that he will give “more details” in the future.

Bukele, who assumed the presidency in June 2019, was re-elected for a new five-year term in the elections on February 4, in which he obtained 84.65% of the vote, favored by his crusade against gangs.

After cornering the gangs, Bukele has said that in his new presidential term, which will start on June 1, his government’s efforts will be focused on pushing for an improvement in the economy.

Tico Times

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Already planning to see the next solar eclipse in 2026? What travelers need to know.

Umbraphiles feeling the post-eclipse blues should start checking the expiration date on their passports.

The next total solar eclipse is set to happen on Aug. 12, 2026 over Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia and a small part of Portugal, according to NASA . 

In North America, only a partial eclipse will be visible, so if April’s event made you an eclipse chaser and you want to see totality, you’ll need to head overseas.

Here’s what you’ll need to know before packing your bags.

Do you need a passport or visa for the best destination?

The path of totality for the 2026 eclipse mostly goes through places Americans can travel visa-free with their passport, so long as they’re planning to stay for less than 90 days.

Spain, Portugal, Iceland and Greenland all allow visa-free tourist travel for U.S. passport holders.

Spain, Portugal and Iceland are also members of the Schengen Area, which allows for visa-free travel in much of Europe, meaning if you decide to make a multi-country trip out of your eclipse adventure, you won’t need to clear customs if you’re coming from much of the rest of Europe, either.

One major change for travelers to Europe from the U.S., however, is that electronic preauthorization will become a requirement beginning in mid-2025. The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) requirement will apply to all four open countries in the path of totality. 

Depending on the state of the Ukraine war, travel to Russia may or may not be an option for most Americans by 2026, so it’s unclear what the paperwork requirements will be by then.

Is it better to see it from the beach?

Beaches can be a great place to see the eclipse because there are few natural obstacles blocking observers’ views of the sky. The 2026 path of totality passes over beaches on Spain’s northern and southeastern coasts, as well as over islands in the Mediterranean Sea including Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza. The eclipse will also pass over coastal areas in Greenland and Iceland, according to the National Solar Observatory . 

Cruising Altitude: What it was like to see the eclipse from a plane

Will there be eclipse cruises or flights?

Almost certainly, although most operators have not announced specific plans yet. 

Cruise lines will also offer more viewing opportunities. Princess Cruises “has created a bespoke itinerary aboard Sky Princess to position the ship near Spain on that date,” according to a spokesperson for the line. The cruise will open for bookings on Princess’s website on May 23.

Cunard Line has sailings on its Queen Mary 2 , Queen Victoria and Queen Anne vessels that will put passengers in prime spots to watch .

'The ship can move': Why you should watch next solar eclipses from a cruise ship

Holland America Line is also planning multiple sailings around the event, though details are still to be announced. “Guests have reacted positively to our 2024 eclipse cruises and with the next full eclipse in 2026 we plan to have three sailings in Europe that will align with the path of the eclipse,” Paul Grigsby, the line's Vice President of Deployment & Itinerary Planning, previously told USA TODAY in an email.

IMAGES

  1. 111 Visa-Free Countries for New Zealand Passport Holders [2023 Guide]

    passport free travel nz

  2. New Zealand Passport

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  3. 107 Visa-Free Countries for New Zealand Passport Holders [2022 Guide]

    passport free travel nz

  4. 111 Visa-Free Countries for New Zealand Passport Holders [2023 Guide]

    passport free travel nz

  5. passports.govt.nz Apply For Your Passport Online New Zealand

    passport free travel nz

  6. Do You Need a Passport to Go to New Zealand?

    passport free travel nz

COMMENTS

  1. New Zealander Passport Visa Free Countries (April 2024)

    New Zealander passport holders have visa-free access to 143 countries, can get e-visa for 60 countries, and need a visa for 22 countries (Updated April 2024). ... We have listed all the countries where New Zealand citizens can travel visa-free, eliminating the hassle of visa paperwork. Europe. 🇦🇱 Albania (90 days) 🇦🇩 Andorra (N/A ...

  2. Before you travel to New Zealand

    Your eligibility to travel to New Zealand without a visa depends on the passport that you are travelling on. If you intend to travel to New Zealand on a passport issued by a visa waiver country you: may travel to New Zealand without applying for a visa first. still must get an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before you travel.

  3. Visa Free Countries for New Zealand Passport Holders

    In this article. The New Zealand passport ranks 30th in the world as of April 2024 according to VisaGuide Passport Index. This means that New Zealand citizens can travel visa-free to 147 countries in the world. However, to enter the remaining countries, New Zealand passport holders must apply for a visa beforehand.

  4. Before you travel

    The name in your passport must match your tickets and your officially registered name. Before you travel, check if the country you're visiting has special rules. Check visa and entry requirements for your destination. Travel advisories. Travel advisories from the NZ government cover security and safety concerns in 137 places around the world.

  5. Visa requirements for New Zealand citizens

    Visa requirements for New Zealand citizens are administrative entry restrictions by the authorities of other states placed on citizens of New Zealand . As of 2024, New Zealand citizens had visa-free or visa on arrival access to 190 countries and territories, ranking the New Zealand passport 5th in the world according to the Henley Passport Index.

  6. New Zealand Passport Visa Free Countries List 2024

    There are a total of 189 visa-free travel destinations for New Zealand passport holders. This comprehensive guide offers detailed information on the destinations that citizens of New Zealand can visit without a prior visa, including lists of visa-free countries, visa-on-arrival countries, and Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) countries.

  7. Before you travel

    Valid passport. You must have a valid passport to enter New Zealand. Check its expiry date to make sure it meets the rules for acceptable travel documents. If you are a New Zealand citizen and you need to renew your passport, make sure you allow plenty of time before you travel. Renew or replace your adult passport - Te Kāwanatanga o ...

  8. Visa-Free Countries For New Zealand Passport Holders [2024]

    Without further ado, let's answer the question at hand: Where can New Zealand passport holders travel without a visa? NZ passport visa-free countries: A complete list [2024] Currently, over 77% of NZ's population over the age of 18 either already has a passport or is eligible to obtain one. If you're in this group, we've got great news ...

  9. 100% Pure New Zealand

    Aotearoa New Zealand enjoys welcoming visitors (manuhiri) to our beautiful country. Having a valid passport, the right visa and completing the entry requirements are key to a trouble-free entry into New Zealand. Your passport has to be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date, and if required, have a valid New Zealand ...

  10. Passports and visas

    A passport is required for travel to all countries, including Australia. If you are planning to travel and your passport is due to expire in less than a year, you may need to renew your passport. Some countries require that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended departure from the country you are visiting.

  11. New Zealand passport visa free countries to travel in 2024

    Last updated: April 3, 2024. New Zealand citizens can visit 147 countries visa free without a visa. New Zealand passport visa free countries include Guam, Malaysia, Philippines and Singapore. New Zealand passport is ranked 14 by Visa List Passport Index 2024. Visa-free travel can save a lot of time, money, and effort as it eliminates the need ...

  12. Travel information

    The expiry date is on the photo page of your passport. If your passport is due to expire in less than a year, you may need to renew your passport before you travel. Some countries require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months after you intend to depart from that country. For more information, contact the embassy of the country you are ...

  13. COVID-19 travel safety and information

    COVID-19 safety practices in place. With COVID-19 case numbers falling, a highly vaccinated population, and increased access to antiviral medicines to treat COVID-19, New Zealand has removed most COVID-19 restrictions. It is still recommended to practice healthy habits when travelling around New Zealand. Practice healthy habits.

  14. Passport-free travel still a year off as Albanese sits down with New

    Passport-free travel between Australia and New Zealand is still at least a year off, after talks between prime ministers Anthony Albanese and Chris Hipkins in Wellington.

  15. New Zealand Passport Dashboard

    Mobility Score | Passport Power Rank. Mobility Score 173. Visa-free 116. Visa on arrival 50. eTA 7. Visa required 25. Passport Power Rank 6. World reach 87%. Population 5,053,004.

  16. Urgent travel

    Upgrade to an urgent passport. If you have a standard passport application already in progress but you need to travel soon, you can upgrade to the urgent service. This costs an additional NZD $206 per application. You can pay by debit, credit or prepaid payment card (for example, Prezzy Card). Once you complete and submit the form, we will ...

  17. New Zealand passport ranking

    The New Zealand passport currently ranked 6 place on the Guide Passport Index. It provides visa-free access to 189 countries. With a high mobility score it is one of the most desirable passports in the world. New Zealand passport holders have visa-free access and visas on arrival to countries such as Japan, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, USA and the entire European Union. This allows ...

  18. Official Home

    New Zealand Government | Te Kawanatanga o Aotearoa. Search passports.govt.nz Notice. Our online passport service will be unavailable from 8am to 8pm Sunday 7 April (NZST) while we complete a planned system upgrade. ... Travel information. Learn about passport care and validity, and where to find safe travel information. This service is ...

  19. Australia and New Zealand citizens could have passport-free travel if

    7:17pm Jul 25, 2023. Australian and New Zealand travellers may no longer need a passport if security talks between the country's prime minsters are successful. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will ...

  20. New Zealand passport

    The number of New Zealand passports and travel documents issued by year is as follows: Year Passports (standard service) Passports (urgent service) ... Arton Capital's Passport Index ranked the New Zealand passport 6th in the world in terms of travel freedom, with a visa-free score of 162 (tied with Icelandic and Maltese passports), as of 2 ...

  21. Call for passports to be ditched for NZ-Aus travel by next year

    Tourism industry representatives think it's time for passports to be ditched for people travelling between Australia and New Zealand. Chief executive of Australia's Tourism and Transport Forum (TTF), Margy Osmond, said it's time to upgrade measures at airports on both sides of the Tasman, meaning people could enter without passports. "We ...

  22. What to know about Schengen zone, Europe's 'border-free' travel system

    April 3, 2024 at 2:07 p.m. EDT. (Washington Post Illustration; iStock) 7 min. Europe's "border-free" Schengen zone has added travel protections for two more countries, making it easier for ...

  23. Apply for your passport

    Apply online for an urgent passport, then call us straight away. You may need our after-hours service. New Zealand. Freephone: 0800 22 50 50 (NZ only) Phone: +64 (4) 463 9360 (outside NZ) Australia. Freephone: 1300 559 535 (Australia only) Phone: +61 (2) 9225 2300. UK. Phone: +44 (20) 7968 2730. Urgent travel

  24. Calls grow in Malaysia for QR code clearance at Johor land ...

    The agreement to one day implement passport-free travel is there, and Malaysia will honour it," said Mr Chen, who led a state task force between 2018 and 2020 to ease congestion at the Causeway.

  25. El Salvador Offers Passports to 5,000 Highly Qualified Foreigners

    April 7, 2024. Listen to this article! News from Costa Rica. The president of El Salvador, Nayib Bukele, offered 5,000 passports this Saturday to "highly qualified foreigners" such as scientists or philosophers who settle in the country, and who may be eligible for Salvadoran citizenship. "We are offering 5,000 free passports," the ...

  26. Official Home

    Apply for your New Zealand passport online. New Zealand Government | Te Kawanatanga o Aotearoa. Search passports.govt.nz Alert. Please allow up to 5 weeks plus delivery for a standard passport. ... Travel information. Learn about passport care and validity, and where to find safe travel information. ...

  27. See the next solar eclipse: Travel advice for the 2026 European travel

    The path of totality for the 2026 eclipse mostly goes through places Americans can travel visa-free with their passport, so long as they're planning to stay for less than 90 days.