From 3 November 2025, new travel rules will allow Pacific Islands Forum passport holders to enter New Zealand from Australia without applying for a visa. Instead, eligible travellers can use the convenient New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) for short-term visits. This change, launched as a 12-month trial, aims to strengthen regional relationships and make travel more accessible for Pacific communities.
Who Can Benefit From the New Travel Rules?
These rules apply only to citizens of Pacific Islands Forum countries travelling directly from Australia. Eligible nations include:
- Federated States of Micronesia
- Fiji
- Kiribati
- Nauru
- Palau
- Papua New Guinea
- Republic of the Marshall Islands
- Samoa
- Solomon Islands
- Tonga
- Tuvalu
- Vanuatu
The new NZeTA pathway helps Pacific nationals travel more freely while maintaining New Zealand’s security and border standards.
Core Requirements for Pacific Passport Holders
To enter New Zealand under this new NZeTA initiative, travellers must:
- Depart from Australia
- Hold a valid Pacific Islands Forum passport
- Have an eligible Australian visa at departure
- Obtain a valid NZeTA before their flight
Travellers must also meet New Zealand’s standard entry rules:
- Be in good health
- Be of good character
- Have a genuine purpose for visiting
- Show sufficient funds for their stay
- Provide proof of departure plans
Eligible Australian Visas for NZeTA Travel
Only specific Australian visas allow Pacific passport holders to enter New Zealand under the NZeTA arrangement. The approved categories include a broad range of visas, such as:
- Business & Investment Visas (UR160, UR161, UR162, EB188, UC457, PE494, and others)
- Family & Partner Visas (UF309, UK820, GH870, UU884, UP461)
- Student & Guardian Visas (TU500, TU590)
- Skilled & Regional Work Visas (VF476, VC485, SP489, PS491)
- Temporary, Visitor, and Holiday Visas (TZ417, US462, FA600, TV651)
Travellers should confirm their Australian visa is on the official eligibility list before applying for an NZeTA.
Key Benefits of Travelling With an NZeTA
With an approved NZeTA, eligible Pacific visitors can:
- Enter New Zealand visa-free from Australia
- Enjoy a stay of up to 3 months each time you enter.
- Make multiple trips while the NZeTA is valid
- Transit through NZ for up to 24 hours without an additional visa
Important: An NZeTA does not allow travellers to work for a New Zealand employer.
How to Apply for an NZeTA
Applications opened on 27 October 2025. Travel under this scheme starts from 3 November 2025. Anyone wishing to arrive before that date must apply for a standard visa.
Application Steps
- Apply through the official NZeTA mobile app or the NZeTA website.
- Make sure to apply at least 72 hours prior to your departure.
- Pay the required NZeTA fees online.
New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD)
All travellers must complete the NZ Traveller Declaration before boarding.
This form, available online from 24 hours before departure, captures essential health, customs, and travel information.
You can access it on the NZ Traveller Declaration website.
Why This Trial Matters
This new initiative promotes stronger Pacific–New Zealand connections, supports family visits, boosts regional travel, and provides a simplified border process for Pacific nationals living in or travelling via Australia.
How Immigration Chambers Can Help You
If you’re uncertain about your eligibility for the new NZeTA pathway or need help confirming your Australian visa subclass, Immigration Chambers New Zealand and our Australia-based partner office, Immigration Chambers Australia, are here to support you. Whether you are living, working, or studying in Australia, our teams provide complete assistance with NZeTA applications, eligibility checks, documentation preparation, and NZ Traveller Declarations.
Clients in Australia can conveniently visit our Immigration Chambers Legal office for in-person guidance, while those in New Zealand can work directly with our Auckland-based experts. Wherever you are, we ensure your travel process is smooth, compliant, and stress-free.
Our Immigration Adviser in Auckland and our Registered Migration Agents in Australia can help you verify your eligibility, apply for the correct travel authority, and prepare all required documents. Connect with us today for professional, accurate, and reliable immigration support.
FAQs
1. Do I need a visa to enter New Zealand from Australia as a Pacific passport holder?
No, you do not need a visa under the 2025 update. Eligible Pacific Islands Forum passport holders travelling from Australia can enter New Zealand using an NZeTA, which replaces the traditional visa requirement for short visits. This offers a faster, simpler, and more accessible travel option.
2. Can I travel from any country, or must it be Australia?
To use this new NZeTA pathway, you must travel directly from Australia. The exemption applies only when departing from Australia because it is linked to holding an eligible Australian visa. If you travel from any other country, you will need to apply for a standard New Zealand visa.
3. Can I work in New Zealand on an NZeTA?
No, the NZeTA does not permit employment or any form of paid work in New Zealand. It is strictly for tourism, family visits, short stays, or transit. If you intend to work, even temporarily, you must apply for an appropriate New Zealand work visa before travelling.
4. How long can I stay in New Zealand with an NZeTA?
With an approved NZeTA, you can stay in New Zealand for up to 3 months per visit. You may also make multiple trips during the NZeTA’s validity period, as long as each visit fits within the permitted timeframe and you continue to meet entry requirements.
5. Do I need a specific Australian visa?
Yes, you must hold one of the approved Australian visa subclasses listed by Immigration New Zealand. Only these visas make you eligible for the NZeTA pathway. If your Australian visa is not on the list, you will need to apply for a New Zealand visa through the standard process.
6. When can I apply for the NZeTA?
You can submit your NZeTA application starting 27 October 2025. However, you can only travel under this scheme from 3 November 2025 onwards. Travellers arriving earlier must still apply for a traditional visa, as NZeTA travel permissions are not active before the start date.
7. Is the NZ Traveller Declaration mandatory?
Yes, completing the New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) is compulsory for all travellers, including those using an NZeTA. It collects essential customs, health, and travel information to speed up border processing. The form must be submitted online before boarding your flight.