New Zealand eTA Guide for German Citizens
New Zealand is a popular travel destination for German citizens, known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and welcoming people. If you are a German citizen planning to visit New Zealand, you may need a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (eTA) before you can enter the country. In this guide, we will explain what a New Zealand eTA is, why German citizens need one, and how to apply for one.
What is a New Zealand eTA?
A New Zealand eTA is an electronic travel authorization that allows foreign citizens to enter New Zealand for tourism, business, or transit purposes.
The eTA is linked to your passport and is valid for up to two (2) years, or until the expiration of your passport, whichever comes first. You can apply for a New Zealand eTA online, and the process is usually quick and easy.
New Zealand Visa Application Form now allows visitors from all nationalities to obtain New Zealand eTA (NZETA) by email without visiting New Zealand Embassy. Government of New Zealand now officially recommends New Zealand Visa or New Zealand ETA online rather than sending paper documents. You can obtain NZETA by filling out a form in under three minutes on this website. The only requirement is to have a Debit or Credit Card and email id. You do not need to send your passport for Visa stamping. If you are arriving to New Zealand by the Cruise Ship route, you should check the New Zealand ETA eligibility conditions for Cruise Ship arrival to New Zealand.
Why do German citizens need a New Zealand eTA?
Since October 2019, German citizens have been required to obtain a New Zealand eTA before they can enter the country.
This is part of New Zealand's efforts to improve border security and to screen travelers for potential health risks. The eTA system helps New Zealand authorities to identify travelers who may pose a risk to public health, security, or immigration integrity, and to facilitate their entry into the country.
What are the requirements for a New Zealand eTA application?
To apply for a New Zealand eTA as a German citizen, you must meet the following requirements:
- Have a valid passport issued by the German government that will remain valid for at least three months after the date you intend to leave New Zealand.
- Be in good health and not have any criminal convictions that would make you ineligible for entry into New Zealand
- Have a valid email address and a credit or debit card to pay the eTA fee.
- Provide accurate and complete information in your eTA application, including your personal details, travel plans, and health status.
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Applying for a New Zealand eTA
Step 1: Check if you are eligible for a New Zealand eTA
Before you start your eTA application, you should check if you are eligible for a New Zealand eTA.
Most German citizens are eligible, but some may not be, such as those who have been deported or excluded from New Zealand before, or those who have certain medical conditions that may pose a risk to public health.
Step 2: Gather the required documents
To apply for a New Zealand eTA, you will need to have the following documents ready:
- A valid German passport
- A credit or debit card to pay the eTA fee
- A valid email address to receive your eTA notification and updates
Step 3: Complete the online application form
To complete your eTA application, you will need to fill out the New Zealand eTA Application form with your personal details, travel plans, and health status.
You will also need to provide information about your passport, including its number, expiry date, and country of issue. You can save your progress and return to the form later if you need to.
Step 4: Pay the New Zealand eTA fee
After you have completed your eTA application, you will need to pay the eTA fee using a credit or debit card.
To know how much the fee is, please visit our website. Once you have paid the fee, your application will be processed.
Step 5: Submit your application
After you have paid the eTA fee, you can submit your application. Your eTA application will be processed within 72 hours, and you will receive a notification by email about the status of your application.
If your application is approved, you will receive your eTA by email, which you should print out and carry with you when you travel to New Zealand. If your application is not approved, you will receive an explanation of the reasons why and what you can do next.
Processing and Approval
How long does it take to process a New Zealand eTA application?
The processing time for a New Zealand eTA application is usually within 72 hours, but it can take longer if additional information is required. It's recommended that you apply for your eTA at least 72 hours before your intended travel date to allow for processing time.
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What happens if your New Zealand eTA application is approved?
If your New Zealand eTA application is approved, you will receive an email notification with your eTA.
You should print out the eTA and carry it with you when you travel to New Zealand. When you arrive in New Zealand, you will need to show your eTA and your passport to the immigration officer.
What happens if your New Zealand eTA application is not approved?
If your New Zealand eTA application is not approved, you will receive an email notification explaining the reasons why.
You may be able to submit a new application with additional or corrected information, or you may need to apply for a different type of visa. If you are unsure about what to do, you can contact the New Zealand Immigration Contact Centre for assistance.
Traveling to New Zealand with an eTA
What should German citizens know before traveling to New Zealand with a New Zealand eTA?
Before you travel to New Zealand with a New Zealand eTA, you should be aware of the following:
- You can only use your eTA for tourism, business, or transit purposes. You cannot use it to work or study in New Zealand.
- You must carry a printed copy of your eTA with you when you travel to New Zealand and show it to the immigration officer upon arrival.
- You must have a valid passport that will remain valid for at least three months after the date you intend to leave New Zealand.
- You must be in good health and not have any criminal convictions that would make you ineligible for entry into New Zealand.
What are the conditions of a New Zealand eTA?
The conditions of a New Zealand eTA include the following:
- You can stay in New Zealand for up to three (3) months per visit.
- You can enter New Zealand as many times as you like during the validity of your eTA, which is up to two years or until the expiration of your passport, whichever comes first.
- You cannot work or study in New Zealand with a New Zealand eTA.
How long can German citizens stay in New Zealand with a New Zealand eTA?
German citizens can stay in New Zealand for up to three (3) months per visit with a New Zealand eTA.
If you wish to stay in New Zealand for longer than three (3) months, you will need to apply for a different type of visa.
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Renewing or Extending a New Zealand eTA
Can German citizens renew or extend a New Zealand eTA?
No, German citizens cannot renew or extend a New Zealand eTA.
Once your eTA has expired, you will need to apply for a new one if you plan to travel to New Zealand again.
What are the requirements for renewing or extending a New Zealand eTA?
Since you cannot renew or extend a New Zealand eTA, there are no specific requirements for doing so.
However, if your circumstances have changed since your last eTA application, such as your passport has expired or you have a criminal conviction, you will need to provide updated information in your new application.
How to renew or extend a New Zealand eTA?
To apply for a new New Zealand eTA, you will need to submit a new application through the official New Zealand eTA website.
You will need to provide your personal and travel details, answer some questions about your health and criminal history, and pay the eTA processing fee. You should also ensure that your passport is still valid and will remain valid for at least three months after your intended departure from New Zealand.
It's recommended that you apply for your new eTA well in advance of your intended travel date to allow for processing time. The processing time for a new eTA application is usually within 72 hours, but it can take longer if additional information is required.
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Details of the German Embassy in New Zealand
The German Embassy in New Zealand is located in Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand. The embassy provides a range of consular services to German citizens living in or traveling to New Zealand, as well as visa and immigration services for New Zealanders and other nationals wishing to visit Germany.
Here are the details of the German embassy in New Zealand:
Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Wellington
Address: 90-92 Hobson Street, Thorndon, Wellington 6011, New Zealand
Telephone: +64 4 473 6063
Fax: +64 4 499 3253
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://wellington.diplo.de/
The embassy is open to the public from Monday to Friday, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. The embassy also offers consular services by appointment only, which can be made through their website or by contacting the embassy directly.
In addition to the embassy in Wellington, there is also a German Honorary Consul in Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand. The Honorary Consul provides limited consular services to German citizens in the Auckland region.
Here are the details of the German Honorary Consul in Auckland:
Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany in Auckland
Address: Level 15, AIG Building, 41 Shortland Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Telephone: +64 9 303 3815
Fax: +64 9 303 3814
Email: [email protected]
It's important to note that the Honorary Consul in Auckland does not provide visa or immigration services, and German citizens requiring such services should contact the embassy in Wellington.
Details Of the New Zealand Embassy In Germany
The New Zealand Embassy in Germany is located in Berlin, the capital city of Germany. The embassy provides a range of services to New Zealand citizens living in or traveling to Germany, as well as visa and immigration services for German and other nationals wishing to visit New Zealand.
Here are the details of the New Zealand embassy in Germany:
New Zealand Embassy in Berlin
Address: Friedrichstrasse 60, 10117 Berlin, Germany
Telephone: +49 30 206 210
Fax: +49 30 2062 1149
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/countries-and-regions/europe/germany/new-zealand-embassy/
The embassy is open to the public from Monday to Friday, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. The embassy also offers consular services by appointment only, which can be made through their website or by contacting the embassy directly.
In addition to the embassy in Berlin, there is also a New Zealand Honorary Consul in Munich, one of the largest cities in Germany. The Honorary Consul provides limited consular services to New Zealand citizens in the Munich region.
Here are the details of the New Zealand Honorary Consul in Munich:
New Zealand Honorary Consul in Munich
Address: 17 Hohenstaufenstrasse, 80801 Munich, Germany
Telephone: +49 89 3074 5714
Fax: +49 89 3074 5715
Email: [email protected]
It's important to note that the Honorary Consul in Munich does not provide visa or immigration services, and German citizens requiring such services should contact the New Zealand embassy in Berlin.
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What are the Ports Of Entry Into New Zealand For Foreign Citizens with an eTA?
New Zealand offers electronic travel authority (eTA) for citizens of eligible countries. Here is the list of New Zealand ports of entry that foreign citizens can use if they have a valid eTA:
Auckland International Airport (AKL)
Wellington International Airport (WLG)
Christchurch International Airport (CHC)
Dunedin International Airport (DUD)
Queenstown International Airport (ZQN)
Hamilton International Airport (HLZ)
Rotorua International Airport (ROT)
Tauranga Airport (TRG)
Napier Airport (NPE)
Nelson Airport (NSN)
New Plymouth Airport (NPL)
Palmerston North International Airport (PMR)
It's important to note that foreign citizens with an eTA are required to arrive and depart from the same airport or seaport, and to have a return or onward ticket. Additionally, travelers with an eTA must carry a printed copy of their eTA confirmation email with them, as they may be asked to present it upon arrival in New Zealand.
What Other Countries Are Permitted with The New Zealand eTA?
New Zealand does not offer an eVisa, but it does offer an electronic travel authority (eTA) for citizens of eligible countries. Here are the countries that are permitted to apply for a New Zealand eTA:
Andorra
Argentina
Austria
Bahrain
Belgium
Brazil
Brunei
Bulgaria
Canada
Chile
Croatia
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hong Kong (SAR)
Hungary
Iceland
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Japan
Kuwait
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Macau (SAR)
Malaysia
Malta
Mauritius
Mexico
Monaco
Netherlands
Norway
Oman
Poland
Portugal
Qatar
Romania
San Marino
Saudi Arabia
Seychelles
Singapore
Slovakia
Slovenia
South Korea
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Taiwan
United Arab Emirates
United Kingdom
United States of America
Uruguay
Vatican City
It's important to note that citizens of some of these countries may be exempt from obtaining an eTA, depending on their circumstances. For example, citizens of Australia and some Pacific Island nations are exempt from the eTA requirement. Additionally, citizens of some countries may be required to obtain a visa instead of an eTA. Therefore, it's always best to check the current visa requirements before traveling to New Zealand.
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What Are the Places in New Zealand That German Tourists Can Visit?
There are many places in New Zealand that German tourists can visit. New Zealand is a beautiful country with diverse landscapes, rich culture, and unique wildlife. Here are some of the top tourist destinations in New Zealand that German visitors may enjoy:
Auckland: New Zealand's largest city and home to iconic landmarks such as the Sky Tower and the Auckland Harbour Bridge. As New Zealand's largest city, Auckland offers a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors. In addition to the Sky Tower and the Harbour Bridge, visitors can explore the Auckland Domain park and museum, take a ferry to the nearby islands of Waiheke or Rangitoto, or visit the vibrant neighborhoods of Ponsonby or Parnell for shopping and dining.
Queenstown: Known as the "adventure capital" of New Zealand, Queenstown offers a wide range of adrenaline-fueled activities, including bungee jumping, jet boating, and skydiving. Visitors can also take a scenic gondola ride to the top of Bob's Peak for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lake.
Milford Sound: This stunning fiord is one of New Zealand's most popular tourist destinations. Visitors can take a boat cruise through the fiord to admire the towering waterfalls, rugged cliffs, and abundant wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and penguins.
Rotorua: Located in the central North Island, Rotorua is known for its geothermal activity and Māori culture. Visitors can experience hot springs, mud pools, and geysers, as well as traditional Māori performances and cuisine.
Bay of Islands: This subtropical region offers a range of water activities, including sailing, fishing, and dolphin watching. Visitors can also learn about New Zealand's early history at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where the treaty between Māori chiefs and the British Crown was signed in 1840.
Waitomo Caves: The caves are known for their unique glowworm displays, which can be seen on guided tours by boat or foot. Visitors can also try adventure activities such as abseiling or black water rafting through the underground cave system.
Abel Tasman National Park: This coastal park offers a range of hiking and kayaking opportunities, with stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and native wildlife.
Franz Josef Glacier: This glacier is one of the most accessible in the world, with guided tours and helicopter rides available. Visitors can also explore the nearby Fox Glacier and take in the stunning alpine scenery.
Wellington: As the capital city of New Zealand, Wellington offers a wealth of cultural attractions, including the Te Papa Tongarewa museum, which showcases the country's history and culture. Visitors can also explore the city's vibrant culinary and arts scenes, with a range of restaurants, cafes, and galleries to choose from.
Marlborough Wine Region: Known for its world-class Sauvignon Blanc, this region offers a range of vineyard tours and tastings, as well as scenic cycling and walking trails.
Tongariro National Park: Located in the central North Island, Tongariro National Park is home to three active volcanoes: Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu. Visitors can hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a 19.4-kilometer trek that takes around 7-9 hours and offers stunning views of volcanic craters, alpine lakes, and panoramic vistas.
Kaikoura: This coastal town on the eastern coast of the South Island is known for its whale watching tours, where visitors can see sperm whales, humpback whales, and orcas. Visitors can also enjoy fresh seafood cuisine, including crayfish, mussels, and paua (abalone).
Mount Cook National Park: This park is located in the southern Alps of the South Island and is home to New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook, which stands at 3,724 meters. Visitors can explore the park on hiking trails, take scenic flights over the mountains, or stargaze in one of the world's largest dark sky reserves.
Waiheke Island: This island is located in the Hauraki Gulf near Auckland and is known for its vineyards, beaches, and boutique shops. Visitors can take a ferry from Auckland and spend the day exploring the island, sampling wine, or relaxing on the beaches.
The Catlins: This coastal region on the southeastern coast of the South Island is a hidden gem known for its rugged scenery and wildlife. Visitors can see fur seals, sea lions, and yellow-eyed penguins, as well as visit waterfalls and remote beaches.
Dunedin: This city on the southeastern coast of the South Island has a rich history and heritage, with a strong Scottish influence. Visitors can explore the Victorian architecture, visit the Otago Museum, or take a tour of the Cadbury chocolate factory.
Fiordland National Park: This wilderness area in the southwest of the South Island is known for its dramatic landscapes and waterfalls. Visitors can take a boat cruise through Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound, or explore the park on hiking trails.
Coromandel Peninsula: This popular holiday destination on the eastern coast of the North Island is known for its stunning beaches, native forests, and hot springs. Visitors can hike the Coromandel Coastal Walkway, visit the hot water beach, or take a scenic drive along the coast.
Hanmer Springs: This alpine village located in the Canterbury region of the South Island is known for its hot springs and outdoor activities. Visitors can soak in the thermal pools, go mountain biking or skiing, or take a scenic helicopter ride.
Te Anau: This town located on the edge of Fiordland National Park is known for its stunning lakeside location and as a gateway to Milford Sound. Visitors can take a boat cruise on Lake Te Anau, visit the glowworm caves, or hike the Kepler Track.
These are just a few of the many destinations in New Zealand that German tourists may enjoy. New Zealand offers a wide variety of experiences, from outdoor adventure to cultural immersion, making it an attractive destination for travelers of all interests.
In summary, German citizens traveling to New Zealand for tourism, business, or transit purposes are required to obtain a New Zealand eTA. The application process is simple and can be completed online through the official New Zealand Immigration website. Once approved, you will receive your eTA by email, which you should print out and carry with you when you travel to New Zealand.
It's important to be aware of the conditions of the eTA, including the maximum length of stay, the purpose of travel, and the requirement to carry a printed copy of the eTA with you. If your eTA application is not approved, you may be able to submit a new application with additional or corrected information or apply for a different type of visa.
Overall, the New Zealand eTA makes it easier for German citizens to travel to New Zealand for short-term stays. By following the application guidelines and understanding the conditions of the eTA, you can enjoy a hassle-free travel experience to one of the most beautiful and unique countries in the world.
Ensure that you have checked the eligibility for your New Zealand eTA. If you are from a Visa Waiver country then you can apply for an eTA regardless of the mode of travel (Air / Cruise). United States citizens, European citizens, Hong Kong citizens, and United Kingdom citizens can apply online for New Zealand eTA. United Kingdom residents can stay on New Zealand eTA for 6 months while others for 90 days.
Please apply for a New Zealand eTA 72 hours in advance of your flight.