New Zealand visa requirements for French citizens in 2026
Checked 4 Aug 2026
No changes since 16 Jul 2026
Entry requirement
Travel authorisation required
Max stay
90 days
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
French passport holders travelling for tourism should use the route below to enter New Zealand.
1
Electronic Travel Authorization
French passport holders do not require a traditional visa to enter New Zealand, but must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before boarding. This is a simple online process and is typically approved within minutes.
ENTRY
Electronic Travel Authorization
ALLOWED STAY
90 days
PURPOSE
Tourist
Application details
Verified against an official source
Visa fee
17 NZD
Processing time
72 hours
Validity
2 years
Entries allowed
multiple
Required documents
- passport
Last updated 7 Sep 2026 ·
Source: immigration.govt.nz ↗
Get your New Zealand visa online — the easy way
Our partner iVisa completes your application, reviews your documents so it isn't rejected,
and gives 24/7 support in your language — 99% approved on time. A service fee applies.
Further notes
- May enter using eGate.
- International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy must be paid upon requesting an Electronic Travel Authority.
- 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. Such travellers are not required to pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa for New Zealand from French Southern Territories?
No, French citizens do not need a visa for New Zealand, but an approved Electronic Travel Authorization is required before departure.
Do French citizens need a visa for New Zealand in 2026?
No, French citizens do not need a visa for New Zealand, but an approved Electronic Travel Authorization is required before departure.
Can French citizens travel to New Zealand?
Yes, French citizens can travel to New Zealand once their Electronic Travel Authorization is approved. Airlines check it at boarding.
What is the maximum length of stay in New Zealand with Electronic Travel Authorization for French citizens?
The maximum length of stay in New Zealand with Electronic Travel Authorization is 90 days. French citizens must leave the country within the specified period.
What happens if a French citizen overstays their visa in New Zealand?
Overstaying in New Zealand can result in fines, penalties, and potentially being banned from entering New Zealand in the future, even though no visa was required. Ensure to comply with the allowed stay duration of 90 days.
How much does the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authorization cost for French citizens?
The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authorization costs 17 NZD for tourist visits. Processing typically takes 72 hours.
Do French 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 4 Aug 2026 ·
Entry rules can change at short notice — always confirm with the official source before you travel.