New Zealand entry requirements for Canada passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed August 5, 2026·View sources
eVisa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Canadian passport holders need a visa to visit New Zealand in 2026. Apply online for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before you travel — it covers tourism and short business visits.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| NZeTA (Electronic Travel Authority)You need this before you fly — it's an electronic visa waiver linked to your passport. Visa waiver for Canadian citizens | Canadian passport holders must obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before departure. Apply online or via the mobile app. The NZeTA is valid for up to 2 years. There is a fee (approx. NZD 17 for the app, NZD 23 online) plus an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZD 35. | Required |
| Passport validityCheck your passport expiry — if it's too close, renew before you go. At least 6 months beyond departure | Your Canadian passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from New Zealand. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesMake sure there's a clean page for immigration to stamp. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least one blank page for entry stamps. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketIt's safer to have a ticket out of New Zealand to show if asked. May be requested at border | Although not always required, immigration officers may ask for proof of onward travel. Have a return or onward ticket ready. | Recommended |
| Proof of sufficient fundsHave bank statements or a credit card ready in case they ask. May be requested at border | You may be asked to show you have enough money for your stay. There is no set amount, but you should have access to at least NZD 1,000 per month of stay, or NZD 400 if accommodation is prepaid. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou'll need to fill this out before you land — it covers customs and biosecurity. New Zealand Traveller Declaration | All travellers must complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration before arrival. This can be done online up to 24 hours before departure. | Required |
Apply for NZeTA early
Don't wait until the last minute. While most applications are approved within 72 hours, some can take longer. Apply at least a week before your flight to avoid stress.
Biosecurity is strict
New Zealand has some of the world's strictest biosecurity laws. Declare any food, plants, animal products, or outdoor gear (hiking boots, tents). Fines for undeclared items start at NZD 400.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for NZeTA online
Go to the Immigration New Zealand website or download the NZeTA mobile app. Fill in your details, pay the fee (NZD 17 via app, NZD 23 via website, plus NZD 35 International Visitor Levy), and wait for approval. Most applications are processed within 72 hours, but apply at least a week before your flight.
2
Book your flight and accommodation
Book a return or onward ticket and your first night's accommodation. Save confirmation emails and screenshots on your phone.
3
Arrive at the airport
At check-in, show your passport and NZeTA approval. The airline will verify your eligibility to board. Have your return ticket and accommodation details handy.
4
Go through immigration in New Zealand
At Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch airports, join the queue for foreign passport holders. An officer will scan your passport, check your NZeTA, and may ask about your plans. Answer honestly. You'll get a stamp or electronic entry record.
5
Collect your luggage and clear customs
After immigration, pick up your bags and go through customs. New Zealand has strict biosecurity — declare any food, outdoor gear, or animal products. Fines are steep for undeclared items.
Download New Zealand Entry Checklist
PDF · Canada Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 5, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Visitor Visa (standard)
Max stayUp to 9 months (usually 3-6 months)
ValidityUp to 18 months (multiple entry)
CostNZD $341
For longer stays or if you don't meet NZeTA criteria; requires full application.
Work Visa (e.g., Working Holiday Scheme)
Max stayUp to 23 months (depending on scheme)
ValidityUp to 23 months
CostNZD $420 (approx.)
For Canadians aged 18-30 (or 35 for some schemes); allows work and travel.
Business Visitor Visa (if not covered by NZeTA)
Max stayUp to 3 months
ValidityUp to 12 months
CostNZD $341
For business activities beyond NZeTA scope; requires invitation and evidence.
work visa
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
Indefinite (permanent residency)
NZD 3,310 (~$2,050 USD)
For skilled workers with a job offer in New Zealand. Points-based system. Leads to permanent residency.
Apply student visa
Student Visa
Duration of course (up to 4 years)
NZD 330 (~$205 USD)
For full-time study at approved institutions. Allows part-time work. Must have acceptance letter.
Apply investor visa
Investor 2 Visa
4 years (leads to residency)
NZD 4,750 (~$2,950 USD)
For investors with NZD 3 million to invest in New Zealand for 4 years. Requires business experience.
Apply Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) application feeMandatory for Canadian citizens; includes IVL (International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy). | NZD $17 (mobile app) or NZD $23 (web) |
| IVL (International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy)Mandatory for most visitors; already bundled in the NZeTA cost. | Included in NZeTA fee |
| New Zealand Visitor Visa (if applicable)Only if you are not eligible for NZeTA or need a longer stay; Canadian citizens generally use NZeTA for short visits. | NZD $341 (standard fee) |
| Extension of Visitor VisaFor extending stay beyond the initial visa/NZeTA period; subject to conditions. | NZD $570 (application fee) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete application20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through New Zealand
No transit visa needed
Canadian citizens transiting through New Zealand (including Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch) do not need a visa if they remain airside and hold a confirmed onward ticket to a third country within 24 hours. However, you must have a valid NZeTA if you will pass through immigration control (e.g., to change airports or stay overnight).
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- If you need to leave the transit area (e.g., to change terminals or stay overnight), you must obtain an NZeTA before travel.
- If you are not a citizen of a visa-waiver country (but Canada is visa-waiver, so no exception applies).
Transit hubsAuckland Airport (AKL) · Wellington Airport (WLG) · Christchurch Airport (CHC)
Health & vaccines for New Zealand
Recommended vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, polio, influenza)EssentialHepatitis ARecommendedTyphoidConsiderHepatitis BRecommended
Health risks
Mosquito-borne diseases (e.g., Ross River virus)Low risk
Rare but present in some rural areas; use insect repellent.
Food and water safetyLow risk
Generally safe, but practice good hygiene.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Auckland
Immigration New Zealand Auckland Office
Level 3, 46 Sale Street, Auckland 1010
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Main office for visa applications and inquiries.
Wellington
Immigration New Zealand Wellington Office
Level 4, 45 Johnston Street, Wellington 6011
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Head office; handles complex cases.
Practical information for CA travellers
Country basics
CapitalWellington
LanguageEnglish, Māori
Driving sideLeft-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS license valid for up to 12 months.
Money
CurrencyNew Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 1.76 NZD
Time zone
Local timeUTC+12
vs New York+17h (EST) / +16h (EDT)
vs Los Angeles+20h (PST) / +19h (PDT)
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
IType I — same as Australia. US plugs do not fit. Bring an adapter.
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Safe to drink
Safe to drink throughout New Zealand.
Emergency numbers
Getting to New Zealand
Nearby destinations you can also visit
Countries close to New Zealand — with your same passport.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you need an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority). It's an online visa waiver that costs NZD 17 via the app or NZD 23 via the website, plus a NZD 35 International Visitor Levy. It's valid for up to 2 years for multiple visits. Apply at least 72 hours before your flight.
You can stay up to 3 months per visit. The NZeTA is valid for multiple entries over 2 years, but each stay is capped at 90 days.
Your NZeTA is linked to your passport number. If you renew your passport, you'll need to apply for a new NZeTA with the new passport details.
No, the NZeTA does not allow extensions. If you want to stay longer, you'd need to apply for a different visa (like a visitor visa) before your NZeTA expires.
Yes, you need proof of onward travel — a ticket to any country outside New Zealand. A one-way ticket won't work unless you have a residence visa.
You won't be allowed to board. Airlines check for valid NZeTA approval at check-in. Apply at least a week before to be safe.
Not mandatory, but strongly recommended. Medical costs in New Zealand are high — a simple hospital visit can cost hundreds of dollars. Insurance covers that and trip cancellations.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on August 5, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.