New Zealand visa requirements for German citizens in 2026
Last updated 4 Aug 2026
Checked 4 Aug 2026
Entry requirement
Travel authorisation required
Max stay
90 days
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
How to enter
German passport holders travelling for tourism should use the route below to enter New Zealand.
1
Electronic Travel Authorization
German 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 24 Aug 2026 ·
Source: immigration.govt.nz ↗
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Further notes
- NZeTA is an electronic travel permit but not legally a visa.
- 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 Germany?
No, German citizens do not need a visa for New Zealand, but an approved Electronic Travel Authorization is required before departure.
Do German citizens need a visa for New Zealand in 2026?
No, German citizens do not need a visa for New Zealand, but an approved Electronic Travel Authorization is required before departure.
Can German citizens travel to New Zealand?
Yes, German 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 German citizens?
The maximum length of stay in New Zealand with Electronic Travel Authorization is 90 days. German citizens must leave the country within the specified period.
What happens if a German 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 German citizens?
The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authorization costs 17 NZD for tourist visits. Processing typically takes 72 hours.
Do German 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 4 Aug 2026 ·
Entry rules can change at short notice — always confirm with the official source before you travel.