New Zealand entry requirements for Spain passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed August 6, 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
Spanish passport holders don't need a traditional visa for New Zealand, but you must get an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before you fly. It's a quick online application, and the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) is included in the fee.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority)This is the official electronic visa for visa-waiver countries like Spain. e-Visa for Spanish passport holders | Spanish citizens must obtain an NZeTA before boarding a flight to New Zealand. Apply online or via the official mobile app at least 72 hours before departure. The NZeTA is valid for up to 2 years for multiple entries. | Required |
| Passport validityIf your passport expires sooner, renew it before traveling. At least 6 months beyond departure | Your Spanish passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your intended date of departure from New Zealand. Ensure your passport meets this requirement before applying for the NZeTA. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesA blank page is needed for the border officer to stamp your passport. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least 1 blank page for entry stamps. This is the minimum required by New Zealand immigration. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketImmigration wants to see that you plan to leave New Zealand before your visa expires. Proof of departure from New Zealand | You must hold a confirmed return or onward ticket to a country you have the right to enter. This is checked at check-in and may be requested by immigration on arrival. | Required |
| Proof of sufficient fundsHaving proof of funds helps demonstrate you can support yourself during your visit. For your stay in New Zealand | You should be able to show evidence of sufficient funds for your stay, such as NZ$1,000 per month of stay, or NZ$400 per month if accommodation is prepaid. This is not always asked, but be prepared to show bank statements or cash. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationThis is a mandatory online form, not a visa, but it must be completed before you fly. New Zealand Traveller Declaration | New Zealand does not require a separate arrival declaration for Spanish citizens. However, you will need to complete the New Zealand Traveller Declaration online within 24 hours before departure to New Zealand. This is a digital form that combines customs, biosecurity, and immigration information. | Required |
| Visa extensionYou cannot extend your stay under the NZeTA; plan your trip accordingly. Not available for NZeTA | The NZeTA does not allow extensions. You must leave New Zealand before your authorized stay expires (typically 3 months per visit). Overstaying can lead to penalties and future visa issues. | Not required |
Don't skip the NZeTA — even for a layover
If your flight touches down in New Zealand, even for a few hours, you need an NZeTA. There are no exceptions for transit passengers. Apply well ahead of time.
Biosecurity is strict
New Zealand has some of the world's strictest biosecurity rules. Declare any food, plants, animal products, or outdoor gear (like hiking boots) on your arrival card. If you don't declare, you could face a fine of NZD 400 or more.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for your NZeTA
Download the official NZeTA app (recommended, cheaper) or go to the Immigration New Zealand website. Fill in your details, pay the fee, and wait for the confirmation. Most applications are approved within minutes to a few hours, but allow up to 72 hours to be safe.
2
Check in for your flight
At the airport, the airline will verify your NZeTA is linked to your passport. Have your passport and boarding pass ready. If your NZeTA hasn't been approved, you won't be able to check in.
3
Arrive in New Zealand
You'll go through passport control at Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, or Queenstown. Have your passport and arrival card (filled out on the plane) ready. The officer may ask about your plans and funds. After that, you'll collect your bags and go through customs and biosecurity.
Download New Zealand Entry Checklist
PDF · Spain Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 6, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Visitor Visa (standard)
Max stayUp to 9 months
ValidityUp to 18 months from first arrival (if multiple entry)
CostNZD 341
For those who need longer than the 6-month visa waiver or have a criminal record; apply online.
Work Visa (e.g., Working Holiday Scheme)
Max stayUp to 12 months
Validity12 months from first arrival
CostNZD 420
For Spanish citizens aged 18-30; allows work and travel; quota applies.
Business Visitor Visa
Max stayUp to 6 months
ValidityUp to 2 years (multiple entry)
CostNZD 341
For business meetings, conferences, or negotiations; no local employment.
work visa
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
Indefinite (permanent residency)
NZD 3,310 (~$2,035 USD)
For skilled workers with a job offer in New Zealand. Points-based system; requires age, experience, and qualifications. Leads to permanent residency.
Apply student visa
Student Visa
Duration of course (up to 4 years)
NZD 330 (~$203 USD)
For full-time study at a New Zealand institution. Must have enrollment and sufficient funds. Allows part-time work.
Apply investor visa
Investor 2 Visa
4 years, then permanent residency
NZD 4,750 (~$2,920 USD)
For investors with NZD 3 million to invest in New Zealand for 4 years. Requires business experience and English proficiency.
Apply Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) via official appRequired for visa waiver travellers, including Spanish citizens, for transit or visit up to 6 months. | NZD 17 |
| NZeTA via official websiteHigher fee if applying online rather than via mobile app. | NZD 23 |
| International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)Paid as part of the NZeTA application; valid for multiple visits over 2 years. | NZD 35 |
| Visitor visa extension (onshore)For extending stay beyond 6 months; must apply before current visa expires. | NZD 260 |
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
Spanish citizens transiting through New Zealand airports do not need a visa, but must have a valid NZeTA (even for airside transit).
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- If you hold a valid New Zealand visa, you do not need a separate NZeTA.
- If you are an Australian permanent resident, you may be exempt from NZeTA.
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 (rare)Low risk
Risk of Ross River virus and other arboviruses is low but present in some rural areas.
Giardia (waterborne)Low risk
Giardia can be found in untreated water; drink bottled or boiled water in backcountry areas.
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, 20 Amersham Way, Manukau, Auckland 2104
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
For visa extensions and inquiries; appointments recommended.
Wellington
Immigration New Zealand National Office
Level 4, 80 Boulcott Street, Wellington 6011
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Handles complex visa applications and appeals.
Practical information for ES 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
You can stay for up to 6 months per visit. The NZeTA itself is valid for 2 years, so you can make multiple trips within that period, as long as each stay doesn't exceed 6 months.
The NZeTA costs NZD 17 (about €10) if you apply via the official mobile app, or NZD 23 (about €14) if you apply online. This includes the NZD 35 IVL (International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy), so you don't need to pay anything extra.
Most applications are approved within minutes to a few hours. However, Immigration New Zealand recommends applying at least 72 hours before your flight to allow for any delays or additional checks. If you have a criminal record, it can take longer.
No, the NZeTA is not extendable. If you want to stay longer than 6 months, you'd need to apply for a different visa, like a visitor visa, before your current one expires. Overstaying can lead to penalties and future entry issues.
If you're transiting through New Zealand (e.g., flying from Spain to Australia with a stopover), you still need an NZeTA unless you're a citizen of a visa-waiver country. The NZeTA covers transit stays, so you're fine as long as you have one.
You won't be allowed to board your flight. Airlines are required to check that all passengers have a valid NZeTA or visa before departure. If you somehow make it to New Zealand without one, you'll be refused entry and sent back on the next available flight at your own expense.
No. The NZeTA is for tourism, visiting family, or short business trips only. You cannot work or study for more than 3 months. If you plan to work or study longer, you need to apply for the appropriate visa before you travel.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on August 6, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.