New Zealand entry requirements for France 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
French passport holders need a visa to enter New Zealand in 2026. The standard option is the NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority), which you can apply for online in minutes. Make sure your passport has at least 6 months validity from your arrival date.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| NZeTA (Electronic Travel Authority)You need this online authorization before boarding your flight to New Zealand. Visa waiver for French citizens | French passport holders must obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before travel. Apply online or via the mobile app. The NZeTA is valid for up to 2 years for multiple visits. | Required |
| International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)This is a mandatory fee collected during the NZeTA application process. Paid with NZeTA application | The IVL of NZD 35 is paid as part of the NZeTA application. This levy funds tourism infrastructure and conservation projects. | Required |
| Passport validityEnsure your passport doesn't expire too soon after your trip. At least 6 months beyond departure | Your French 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. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least 1 blank page for entry stamps. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketHaving a booked departure flight helps avoid delays at the border. May be requested | Although not always required, immigration officers may ask for proof of a return or onward ticket to ensure you will leave New Zealand before your visa-free period ends. | Recommended |
| Proof of sufficient fundsCarry bank statements or credit cards to show you can support yourself. May be requested | You may be asked to show evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay in New Zealand. The amount is not fixed but should cover accommodation, meals, and other expenses. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou don't need to fill out any additional arrival forms. Not required | New Zealand does not require a separate arrival declaration for French citizens. The NZeTA serves as your electronic authorization. | Not required |
Passport validity is critical
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day you land in New Zealand. If it expires sooner, renew it before applying for the NZeTA. Airlines may deny boarding if your passport doesn't meet this requirement.
NZeTA processing time
Most NZeTA applications are approved within minutes, but it can take up to 72 hours. Apply at least a week before your flight to avoid last-minute stress.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for NZeTA online
Go to the Immigration New Zealand website or download the NZeTA app. Fill in your passport details, a recent photo, and pay the fee (NZD 9 via app, NZD 12 via web, plus NZD 35 IVL). Approval is usually instant, but allow a few days just in case.
2
Book your flight and accommodation
Book a return or onward ticket and your first night's accommodation. Keep the confirmation emails or screenshots on your phone. Immigration may ask for these at the border.
3
Arrive at Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch airport
When you land, go through passport control. Have your passport and NZeTA approval ready. The officer may ask about your plans, return ticket, and accommodation. Answer clearly. After that, collect your bags and go through customs.
4
Show your documents at immigration
At the immigration counter, hand over your passport. The officer will scan it and check your NZeTA. They may ask for your return ticket and accommodation proof. Be polite and direct. You'll get a stamp or electronic entry record.
Download New Zealand Entry Checklist
PDF · France 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
ValidityTypically 18 months from approval
CostNZD $211
For longer stays or if you do not qualify for NZeTA
Work Visa (e.g., Working Holiday, Skilled)
Max stayVaries (up to 3 years)
ValidityVaries by visa type
CostFrom NZD $495
Requires job offer or specific scheme eligibility
Business Visitor Visa
Max stayUp to 6 months
ValidityUp to 3 years
CostNZD $211
For business meetings, conferences, or negotiations
work visa
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
Indefinite (permanent residency)
NZD 3,310 (~$2,050 USD) for principal applicant
For skilled workers with a job offer in New Zealand. Points-based system. Requires age, experience, and qualifications.
Apply student visa
Student Visa
Duration of course (up to 4 years)
NZD 330 (~$200 USD) for application
For full-time study at approved institutions. Allows part-time work. Must have offer of place and sufficient funds.
Apply investor visa
Investor 1 Resident Visa
Indefinite (permanent residency after 3 years)
NZD 4,750 (~$2,950 USD) for application
For high-net-worth individuals investing NZD 10 million in New Zealand for 3 years. No age or language requirements.
Apply retirement visa
Parent Retirement Resident Visa
Indefinite (permanent residency)
NZD 3,310 (~$2,050 USD) for application
For parents of New Zealand residents or citizens. Requires a guaranteed income and investment of NZD 1 million.
Apply Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) application feeNon-refundable, paid online at application | NZD $17 |
| International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)Paid together with NZeTA application | NZD $100 |
| NZeTA app convenience fee (optional)Only if applying via the official NZeTA mobile app | NZD $1.30 |
| Visa extension (Visitor Visa)For stays beyond the initial 3 months; subject to conditions | NZD $211 |
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
French citizens transiting through New Zealand airports do not need a visa if they remain airside and hold a confirmed onward ticket. However, an NZeTA is required for any transit through New Zealand, even if you do not pass immigration.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- If you need to leave the airport or pass through immigration, you must hold a valid NZeTA or Visitor Visa.
- If you are transiting to or from Australia and have a valid Australian visa, you may still need an NZeTA.
Transit hubsAuckland Airport (AKL) · Wellington Airport (WLG) · Christchurch Airport (CHC)
Health & vaccines for New Zealand
Recommended vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, varicella, influenza)EssentialHepatitis ARecommendedHepatitis BRecommendedTyphoidConsiderRabiesConsider
Health risks
Mosquito-borne diseases (rare)Low risk
Dengue and Ross River virus are rare but possible in Northland.
Giardia (waterborne)Low risk
Avoid drinking untreated water from streams or lakes.
Sun exposureModerate risk
High UV levels; use sunscreen and protective clothing.
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. Book appointments online.
Wellington
Immigration New Zealand Wellington Office
Level 4, 45 Pipitea Street, Wellington 6011
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Head office; handles complex cases and appeals.
Practical information for FR 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) for tourism or business visits up to 3 months. Apply online before you travel. The fee is NZD 9 to NZD 12, plus the NZD 35 IVL. Approval is usually quick.
You can stay up to 3 months per visit. The NZeTA is valid for 2 years from approval, so you can make multiple trips within that period as long as each stay is under 3 months.
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your planned entry date. If it expires sooner, renew it before applying for the NZeTA. The NZeTA is linked to your passport number, so a new passport means a new application.
No, the NZeTA does not allow extensions. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a different visa (like a visitor visa) before your current one expires. Overstaying can lead to fines or deportation.
Your passport (with valid NZeTA), a return or onward ticket, and proof of accommodation for your first night. Immigration may also ask about your travel plans and funds. Keep everything easily accessible.
No, it's not mandatory, but it's strongly recommended. Medical costs in New Zealand are high — a hospital stay can cost hundreds of NZD per day. Insurance covers accidents, illness, and trip cancellations.
No, the NZeTA is for tourism, business meetings, or short study courses only. You cannot work or take paid employment. If you want to work, you need a work visa.
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.