New Zealand visa requirements for Chinese citizens in 2026
Checked 1 Oct 2026
No changes since 1 Oct 2026
Entry requirement
Visa required — apply before you travel
Purpose
Tourism
Different passport? See New Zealand visa requirements for all nationalities ↗
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 — 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
Embassy Visa
For Chinese citizens looking to travel to New Zealand, securing a visa prior to arrival is mandatory. Please consult the nearest New Zealand embassy or consulate for detailed visa application procedures.
ENTRY
Embassy Visa
PURPOSE
Tourist
Application details
Verified against an official source
Visa fee
441 NZD
Processing time
2 weeks
Required documents
- copy of your passport
- 1 acceptable photo
- police certificates, if required
- evidence of a chest X-ray, if required
- evidence of a medical examination, if required
- proof you have enough money to live on
- proof of your plans in New Zealand to show you are a genuine visitor
- proof you can leave New Zealand at the end of your stay
Last updated 12 Oct 2026 ·
Source: immigration.govt.nz ↗
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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.
Do Chinese citizens need a visa for New Zealand in 2026?
Yes, a visa is required for Chinese citizens. Options include: Embassy Visa.
Can Chinese citizens travel to New Zealand?
Yes, Chinese citizens can travel to New Zealand, but a visa is required.
What is the maximum length of stay in New Zealand with Embassy Visa for Chinese citizens?
The maximum length of stay in New Zealand with Embassy 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 a 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.
How much does the New Zealand Embassy Visa cost for Chinese citizens?
The New Zealand Embassy Visa costs 441 NZD for tourist visits. Processing typically takes 2 weeks.
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 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 Oct 2026 ·
Entry rules can change at short notice — always confirm with the official source before you travel.