New Zealand entry requirements for Greece 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
Greek passport holders need a visa to enter New Zealand in 2026. You must apply for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before you travel — it's a quick online process, not a traditional visa. Plan ahead: the NZeTA is valid for up to 2 years and allows multiple visits of up to 90 days each.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority)You need this electronic travel authority before you travel; it is not a visa but a mandatory pre-travel authorization. e-Visa for Greek citizens | Greek passport holders must obtain an NZeTA before boarding a flight to New Zealand. Apply online or via the official mobile app. The NZeTA is valid for up to 2 years and allows multiple visits. | Required |
| Passport validityIf your passport expires sooner, you may be denied boarding or entry. At least 6 months beyond departure | Your Greek passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from New Zealand. Ensure your passport meets this requirement before applying for the NZeTA. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesImmigration officers need a blank page to stamp your passport upon arrival. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least one blank page for the entry stamp. It is recommended to have more than one blank page to avoid issues. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketHaving a return or onward ticket demonstrates that you intend to leave New Zealand before your permitted stay ends. Proof of onward travel | Although not explicitly required by New Zealand immigration for Greek citizens, you may be asked to show proof of onward travel (return ticket or ticket to another destination) at check-in or border control. It is strongly recommended to have one. | Recommended |
| Proof of sufficient fundsCarry proof that you can support yourself financially during your visit. Financial evidence | While not a fixed amount is specified, you should be able to show evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay in New Zealand, such as bank statements or credit cards. This may be requested by immigration officers. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou must submit this digital declaration to speed up your arrival process and declare any items. New Zealand Traveller Declaration | All travellers to New Zealand must complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration before arrival. This can be done online up to 24 hours before departure. It is a mandatory step for all visitors. | Required |
Biosecurity is strict
New Zealand has some of the world's toughest biosecurity laws. Declare any food, plants, animal products, camping gear, or sports equipment. Fines start at NZD 400 and can go much higher. When in doubt, declare it.
NZeTA is valid for 2 years
Once approved, your NZeTA is valid for up to 2 years and allows multiple visits of up to 90 days each. If your passport expires before the 2 years, the NZeTA expires with it.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for NZeTA online
Go to the official Immigration New Zealand website or use the NZeTA mobile app. Fill in your personal details, passport info, and answer a few health and character questions. Pay the fee (around NZD 17 via the app, NZD 23 via the web) plus the IVL of NZD 35. Approval usually comes within minutes to 72 hours.
2
Pack your documents
Print or save digital copies of your approved NZeTA, passport, return ticket, accommodation booking, and travel insurance. Keep them in an easily accessible folder on your phone or in your carry-on.
3
Arrive at Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch airport
Most international flights land at Auckland Airport. Follow signs to 'Arrivals' and then to 'Immigration'. Join the queue for non-New Zealand passport holders. Have your passport and NZeTA confirmation ready. The officer may ask about your travel plans, accommodation, and return ticket.
4
Clear biosecurity and customs
New Zealand has strict biosecurity laws. Declare any food, plants, animal products, or outdoor gear. Failure to declare can result in a fine of NZD 400 or more. After customs, collect your luggage and proceed to the exit.
Download New Zealand Entry Checklist
PDF · Greece Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 5, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Visitor Visa (for longer stays)
Max stayUp to 9 months (usually 3–6 months per visit)
ValidityTypically 6–12 months from date of issue
CostNZD $211 (standard fee)
For stays longer than the 90-day NZeTA limit. Must apply online and provide evidence of funds, onward travel, and health/character.
Work Visa (e.g., Working Holiday Scheme)
Max stayUp to 12 months (for Greek citizens under 30)
Validity12 months from first arrival
CostNZD $420 (approx.)
Greece is eligible for the Working Holiday Scheme. Allows work and travel; must meet age and health requirements.
Business Visitor Visa (for business activities)
Max stayUp to 6 months
ValidityUsually 6 months
CostNZD $211 (standard fee)
For business meetings, conferences, or negotiations. Not for paid work. Apply online.
work visa
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
Indefinite (permanent residency)
NZD 4,290 (~USD 2,640)
For skilled workers with a job offer in an occupation on the skill shortage list. Requires points test and health/character checks.
Apply student visa
Student Visa
Duration of course (up to 4 years)
NZD 330 (~USD 203)
For full-time study at an approved New Zealand institution. Must have proof of enrollment and sufficient funds.
Apply investor visa
Investor 1 Resident Visa
Indefinite (permanent residency)
NZD 4,740 (~USD 2,920)
For high-net-worth individuals investing NZD 10 million in New Zealand over 3 years. No age or language requirements.
Apply retirement visa
Parent Retirement Resident Visa
Indefinite (permanent residency)
NZD 3,130 (~USD 1,930)
For parents of New Zealand residents or citizens who have an adult child in NZ and can invest NZD 1 million.
Apply Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) application feeIncludes NZ International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZD $35, which is mandatory for most visitors. | NZD $17 (mobile app) or NZD $23 (web) |
| New Zealand International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)Included in the NZeTA fee; not charged separately. | NZD $35 |
| Visa extension (Visitor Visa)Apply online before your current visa expires; you must still meet health and character requirements. | NZD $211 (standard 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
Greek citizens transiting through New Zealand airports (e.g., Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch) do not need a visa if they remain airside and hold a confirmed onward ticket. 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 leave the transit area (e.g., to collect baggage, change airports, or stay overnight), you must have a valid NZeTA.
- If you are not a citizen of a visa-waiver country (Greece is visa-waiver for NZ), you may need a transit visa – but Greek citizens are 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 ARecommendedTyphoidConsiderInfluenzaRecommended
Health risks
Mosquito-borne diseases (e.g., Ross River virus)Low risk
Rare in urban areas; risk increases in rural and outdoor settings.
Food and water safetyLow risk
Generally safe, but standard precautions advised.
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, 20 Amersham Way, Manukau, Auckland 2104
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
Handles visa applications and extensions.
Practical information for GR 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
Most applications are processed within minutes to 72 hours. Apply at least a week before your flight to be safe. The fee is around NZD 17 via the app or NZD 23 via the website, plus the NZD 35 IVL.
No, the NZeTA allows a maximum stay of 90 days per visit. You cannot extend it. If you want to stay longer, you'll need to apply for a different visa, like a Visitor Visa, before your current permission expires.
If you're transiting through New Zealand to another country and you hold a Greek passport, you may be eligible for a transit visa waiver. However, you still need to apply for an NZeTA if you'll be transiting through Auckland or other airports. Check with your airline or Immigration New Zealand for the latest rules.
You will likely be denied boarding by the airline or refused entry at the border. There is no way to apply for an NZeTA on arrival. You must have it approved before you travel.
No. The NZeTA is for tourism, visiting family, or short business trips (like meetings or conferences). You cannot work for a New Zealand employer or study for more than 3 months. For work or study, you need the appropriate visa.
Have your passport (valid 6+ months), printed or digital NZeTA approval, return ticket, first night accommodation booking, and travel insurance details. Keep them in your carry-on or phone for quick access.
No, it's not mandatory for entry, but it's strongly recommended. Medical costs in New Zealand are high — a hospital stay can cost hundreds of dollars per day. Insurance covers accidents, illness, 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.