New Zealand visa requirements for Chinese citizens in 2026
Checked 1 Sep 2026
No changes since 5 Jun 2026
Entry requirement
Visa required — apply online before you travel
Purpose
Tourism
Conditions for entry — required on every route
These apply whether you enter visa-free, on a visa on arrival, or on an e-Visa. Airlines can deny boarding if they're not met.
Registration
New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) — complete it before you travel.
Official form ↗
Onward ticket
Required — airlines may ask to see it at check-in
· Get an onward ticket (partner) ↗
How to enter
Chinese passport holders travelling for tourism should use the route below to enter New Zealand.
1
E-Visa
Chinese passport holders planning a visit to New Zealand for tourism purposes do not need a traditional visa for short durations. Instead, an electronic visa (eVisa) must be applied for and approved online before travel. Processing typically takes several business days.
ENTRY
E-Visa
PURPOSE
Tourist
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Further notes
- May enter using eGate.
- Holders of an Australian Permanent Resident Visa or Resident Return Visa may be granted a New Zealand Resident Visa on arrival permitting indefinite stay (pursuant to the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement), subject to meeting character requirements and obtaining an Electronic Travel Authority prior to departure.
- Transit visa not required for passengers with an NZaTA flying to or from Australia and remaining airside for no longer than 24 hours.
- Visas issued with a maximum of 5-year validity period.
- From 3 November 2025 to 2 November 2026, Chinese tourists traveling from Australia with a valid Australian visitor, work, student or family visa will be able to travel to New Zealand for up to 3 months with an NZeTA.
- Transit visa not required for passengers with an NZaTA remaining airside for no longer than 24 hours.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa for New Zealand from China?
Yes, a visa is required for Chinese citizens. China passport holders can apply for a tourist visa online.
Do Chinese citizens need a visa for New Zealand in 2026?
Yes, a visa is required for Chinese citizens. China passport holders can apply for a tourist visa online. Options include: E-Visa.
Can Chinese citizens travel to New Zealand?
Yes, Chinese citizens can travel to New Zealand, but an E-Visa is required.
What is the maximum length of stay in New Zealand with E-Visa for Chinese citizens?
The maximum length of stay in New Zealand with E-Visa is not specified. Chinese citizens must leave the country within the specified period.
What happens if a Chinese citizen overstays their visa in New Zealand?
Overstaying an E-Visa in New Zealand can result in fines, penalties, and potentially being banned from entering New Zealand in the future. It is important to comply with the length of stay specified with the visa and leave the country within the allotted time.
Do Chinese citizens need a return ticket to enter New Zealand?
Yes — New Zealand requires proof of onward or return travel, and airlines may ask to see it at check-in.
Do I need to complete an arrival card before travelling to New Zealand?
Yes — the New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) is mandatory and separate from any visa. Complete it online before you travel; the official form is linked in the entry conditions above.
About New Zealand
- Official
- New Zealand
- Capital
- Wellington
- Currency
- New Zealand dollar
- Language
- English
- Calling code
- +64
- Population
- 4,993,923
- Region
- Oceania · Australia and New Zealand
Last checked 1 Sep 2026 ·
Entry rules can change at short notice — always confirm with the official source before you travel.