New Zealand entry requirements for Chile passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed July 3, 2026·View sources
Visa 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Visitor VisaChilean citizens need a visa to enter New Zealand for tourism or business visits. Required for all Chilean passport holders | You must apply for a New Zealand Visitor Visa before traveling. The visa is not available on arrival. Apply online or at a New Zealand visa application center. Processing times vary; apply well in advance. | Required |
| Passport ValidityYour passport must not expire soon after your trip; 6 months validity is standard for visa applicants. At least 6 months beyond your intended stay | Your Chilean passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date you plan to enter New Zealand. | Required |
| Blank Passport PagesImmigration officers need a clean page to place your visa or entry stamp. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least 1 blank page for the visa sticker or entry stamp. | Required |
| Return or Onward TicketHaving a ticket out of New Zealand shows you intend to leave within your visa validity. May be requested at border | While not always required, you should have a confirmed return or onward flight ticket to satisfy immigration if asked. | Recommended |
| Proof of Sufficient FundsCarry proof you can support yourself financially during your visit. May be requested at border | You may be asked to show evidence of sufficient funds (e.g., bank statements, credit cards) to cover your stay. No specific amount is set; it depends on your itinerary. | Recommended |
| Arrival DeclarationYou do not need to submit an online arrival form before traveling. Not required for Chile passport holders | No pre-arrival electronic declaration is needed for Chilean citizens entering New Zealand. | Not required |
| Visa ExtensionYou must leave New Zealand before your visa expires; extensions are not permitted. Not available for this visa type | The New Zealand Visitor Visa for Chilean passport holders cannot be extended beyond the granted stay. | 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 July 3, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Business visitor visa
Max stay3 months
ValidityUp to 12 months
CostNZD 211
For attending meetings, conferences, or negotiating contracts. No paid work allowed.
Multiple-entry visitor visa
Max stay3 months per visit
ValidityUp to 2 years
CostNZD 211
Allows multiple entries; good for frequent travellers.
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 |
|---|---|
| Visitor visa (standard online application)Fee for a single-entry or multiple-entry visitor visa, valid up to 9 months. | NZD 211 |
| International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)Paid at the same time as visa application; required for most visitors. | NZD 35 |
| Visa extension (visitor visa)Allows extension of stay up to a total of 12 months in an 18-month period. | NZD 211 |
| New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) – not applicableChilean passport holders cannot use NZeTA; a visitor visa is required. | N/A |
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
No transit visa needed
Chilean passport holders transiting through New Zealand for less than 24 hours and not leaving the airport transit area do not need a transit visa. However, if you need to clear customs (e.g., to change airports or stay overnight), a visitor visa is required.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- If you have a valid New Zealand visitor visa or NZeTA (not applicable for Chile), you may transit without a separate transit visa.
Transit hubsAuckland Airport (AKL) · Christchurch Airport (CHC) · Wellington Airport (WLG)
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 July 3, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.