New Zealand entry requirements for Chile 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
Chilean passport holders need a visa to enter New Zealand. As of 2026, you must apply for a visitor visa online before you travel. The process is straightforward, but plan ahead — processing can take a few weeks.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| NZeTA (Electronic Travel Authority)This is the mandatory electronic travel authorization that replaces a visa for visa-waiver countries. Visa waiver for Chileans | Chilean citizens do not need a traditional visa for New Zealand, but must obtain an NZeTA before travel. Apply online or via the mobile app; the NZeTA is valid for up to 2 years for multiple entries. | Required |
| Passport validityEnsure your passport does not expire too soon after your trip, or you may be denied boarding. At least 6 months beyond departure | Your Chilean passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from New Zealand. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesImmigration officers need a clean page to stamp your passport upon arrival. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least 1 blank page for the entry stamp. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketCarry a printed or digital copy of your outbound flight booking to satisfy immigration. Proof of onward travel | You may be asked to show a return or onward ticket proving you will leave New Zealand before your NZeTA expires (typically within 3 months per visit). | Required |
| Proof of sufficient fundsImmigration officers may ask to see bank statements or credit cards to ensure you can support yourself. For your stay | You may be asked to show evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay, such as NZD 1,000 per month or proof of prepaid accommodation and meals. | Required |
| Arrival declarationThis digital form collects customs, biosecurity, and health information; complete it to speed up arrival. New Zealand Traveller Declaration | You must complete the New Zealand Traveller Declaration before arrival (online within 24 hours before departure). This is mandatory for all travellers. | Required |
| Visa extensionYou cannot extend your stay under the NZeTA; plan your trip accordingly. Not applicable | The NZeTA does not allow extensions; you must leave New Zealand before your permitted stay ends. | Not required |
Apply early — processing can be slow
Visa processing for Chilean nationals can take 2–4 weeks or longer. Don't wait until the last minute. Apply at least a month before your trip to avoid stress.
Travel insurance is not mandatory but highly recommended
New Zealand's healthcare system is not free for visitors. A hospital stay can cost hundreds of dollars per day. A basic travel insurance policy is cheap peace of mind.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for a visitor visa online
Go to the Immigration New Zealand website and complete the visitor visa application. You'll need to upload your passport scan, travel itinerary, accommodation details, and proof of funds. Pay the fee (around NZ$211 as of 2026) and submit.
2
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 2–4 weeks, but can be longer during peak seasons. Check your application status online. You'll receive an email when a decision is made.
3
Prepare your documents for travel
Once approved, print or save a copy of your visa approval letter. Also have your passport, return ticket, accommodation booking, and travel insurance handy — both at check-in and upon arrival at Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch airports.
4
Arrive and go through immigration
At the airport, join the 'Visitors' queue. Present your passport and visa approval. The officer may ask about your plans, funds, and onward ticket. Answer clearly. After clearance, collect your luggage and proceed through customs.
Download New Zealand Entry Checklist
PDF · Chile Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 5, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Business Visitor Visa
Max stayUp to 6 months
ValidityTypically up to 12 months
CostNZD 341
For business meetings, conferences, or negotiations; not for paid work.
Work Visa (e.g., Essential Skills)
Max stayUp to 3 years (depending on job offer)
ValidityVaries
CostNZD 540+
Requires a job offer from a New Zealand employer and may require a labor market test.
Student Visa
Max stayDuration of course
ValidityUp to 4 years
CostNZD 375
Requires acceptance into an approved educational institution.
Working Holiday Visa
New Zealand Working Holiday Visa (Chile)
12 months
NZD 420
For Chilean citizens aged 18–30 to work and travel in New Zealand for up to 12 months. Must apply before arrival.
Apply on Immigration NZ Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) via mobile appRequired for visa waiver nationals; not applicable to Chileans who need a visitor visa. | NZD 17 |
| NZeTA via websiteNot applicable to Chileans who need a visitor visa. | NZD 23 |
| Visitor visa application feeStandard visitor visa fee for most applicants. | NZD 341 |
| International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)Paid as part of the visitor visa application. | NZD 100 |
| Visa extension (Visitor Visa)For extending stay beyond visa validity; subject to conditions. | NZD 341 |
Common reasons for entry denial
Incomplete or incorrect application30%
Insufficient funds25%
Unclear travel intentions20%
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
Transit visa required
Chilean passport holders transiting through New Zealand require a transit visa (or a visitor visa) unless they are eligible for the NZeTA. Since Chile is not a visa waiver country, a transit visa is required for airside transit.
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of a valid New Zealand visitor visa or resident visa
- Holders of a valid visa for Australia (if transiting to/from Australia and meet certain conditions)
- Diplomatic or official passport holders (may be exempt)
Transit hubsAuckland Airport (AKL) · Wellington Airport (WLG) · Christchurch Airport (CHC)
Health & vaccines for New Zealand
Recommended vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, etc.)EssentialHepatitis ARecommendedHepatitis BRecommendedTyphoidConsiderInfluenzaConsider
Health risks
Seasonal influenzaModerate risk
Common during winter months (June–September).
CampylobacteriosisLow risk
Foodborne illness; practice good hygiene.
GiardiaLow risk
Waterborne parasite; avoid untreated water.
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
Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Wellington
Immigration New Zealand National Office
Level 4, 50 The Terrace, Wellington 6011
Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Practical information for CL 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
Nearby destinations you can also visit
Countries close to New Zealand — with your same passport.
Frequently asked questions
No. Chilean passport holders must obtain a visitor visa before traveling. There is no visa-on-arrival option.
Processing usually takes 2–4 weeks, but can be longer during peak travel seasons. Apply at least a month before your planned departure.
As of 2026, the standard visitor visa fee is approximately NZ$211. This may change, so check the Immigration New Zealand website for the current fee.
You'll need a valid passport (6+ months validity), a recent passport-sized photo, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, proof of sufficient funds (bank statements or credit card), and a return or onward ticket. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Yes, you can apply for an extension before your current visa expires. Extensions are granted on a case-by-case basis, usually for up to 3 additional months. You must show you have funds to support the extended stay.
If you are transiting through New Zealand (leaving the airport within 24 hours), you generally do not need a visa. However, you must hold a valid passport and an onward ticket. Check with your airline for specific transit requirements.
You can reapply, but you must address the reasons for rejection. Common reasons include insufficient funds, unclear travel plans, or incomplete documentation. There is no formal appeal process — a new application is your best option.
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.