New Zealand entry requirements for Israel passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 24, 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
Israeli passport holders need a visa to enter New Zealand. You must apply for a visitor visa (or an NZeTA if transiting) before you travel. This requirement is in effect for 2026.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| NZeTA applicationNZeTA: New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority — required for visa-exempt visitors. Apply at immigration.govt.nz or via the NZeTA app ($17 NZD). Takes minutes to approve. Electronic Travel Authority | Apply for an NZeTA before you fly. The fee is $17 NZD via the app or $23 NZD via the website, plus the $35 NZD International Visitor Levy. Approval usually takes minutes and is valid for 2 years.Apply for NZeTA | Required |
| Valid passport Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended departure from New Zealand | Your passport needs at least 3 months validity beyond the date you plan to leave New Zealand. Airlines check this at check-in, and immigration officers enforce it on arrival. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of onward travel | Immigration officers routinely ask for proof of a return or onward ticket. Have a printed or digital copy of your flight booking ready to show at the border. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel bookings or host invitation | Keep your hotel confirmations or a letter of invitation from your host handy. Officers rarely ask, but having it ready avoids delays. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Evidence of sufficient money for your stay | Have bank statements or a credit card showing you can cover your expenses. There's no set minimum, but showing at least $1,000 NZD per month of stay is a safe benchmark. | Recommended |
Visa required — apply early
Israeli passport holders must get a visa before traveling to New Zealand. Processing can take up to 30 days, so apply at least 6 weeks before your planned departure.
Biosecurity is strict
New Zealand has very strict biosecurity laws. Declare any food, plants, animal products, or outdoor gear. Fines for non-declaration can be steep. When in doubt, declare it.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for a visitor visa
Submit your application online through Immigration New Zealand's website. You'll need your passport details, travel history, and supporting documents. Processing takes 20–30 days typically.
2
Wait for approval
Once submitted, you'll receive a confirmation email. Check your application status online. Do not book flights until you have the visa in hand.
3
Prepare your documents
Print or save digital copies of your visa approval, passport, return ticket, accommodation confirmation, and insurance. Keep them in your carry-on.
4
Arrive at the airport
At Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch airports, proceed to the immigration queue for visitors. Have your passport and visa ready. You'll be asked about your trip purpose and length of stay.
5
Go through customs and biosecurity
New Zealand has strict biosecurity. Declare any food, plants, or outdoor gear. Failure to declare can result in fines. Follow the signs and be honest.
Download New Zealand Entry Checklist
PDF · Israel Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 24, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Visitor Visa (single entry)
Max stay9 months
ValidityUp to 18 months from issue date
CostNZD 211 (~USD 130)
Standard tourist visa for single entry; must apply before travel.
Visitor Visa (multiple entry)
Max stay9 months per visit
ValidityUp to 18 months from issue date
CostNZD 211 (~USD 130)
Allows multiple entries; suitable for frequent travellers.
Work Visa
Max stayVaries by job offer
ValidityUp to 3 years
CostNZD 495 (~USD 305)
Requires a job offer from a New Zealand employer and relevant qualifications.
Student Visa
Max stayDuration of course
ValidityUp to 4 years
CostNZD 330 (~USD 203)
Requires acceptance into a recognized educational institution.
work visa
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
Indefinite (permanent residency)
NZD 3,310 (~USD 2,040)
For skilled workers with a job offer in an occupation on New Zealand's skill shortage list. Requires points-based assessment, age under 55, and English proficiency. Leads to permanent residency.
Apply student visa
Student Visa (Full-time study)
Up to 4 years (course duration)
NZD 330 (~USD 203) application fee
For full-time study at a New Zealand institution. Requires acceptance letter, proof of funds, and health insurance. Allows part-time work during study.
Apply investor visa
Investor 1 Resident Visa
Indefinite (permanent residency after 3 years)
NZD 4,750 (~USD 2,930)
For high-net-worth individuals investing NZD 10 million in New Zealand over 3 years. No age or English requirements. Leads to permanent residency.
Apply Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visitor Visa (single entry)Standard fee for a single-entry tourist visa. | NZD 211 (~USD 130) |
| Visitor Visa (multiple entry)Same fee as single entry, but allows multiple entries within validity. | NZD 211 (~USD 130) |
| International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)Mandatory fee for most visitors, paid with visa application or via ETA. | NZD 35 (~USD 22) |
| Stay extension feeFee to apply for an extension of visitor visa. | NZD 211 (~USD 130) |
| Overstay fine per dayPenalty for overstaying visa; may also lead to deportation and ban. | NZD 100 (~USD 62) per day |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Unclear travel purpose20%
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
Israeli passport holders do not need a transit visa to change planes in New Zealand, provided they remain airside and have a confirmed onward ticket.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- If leaving the airport or clearing immigration, a visitor visa is required.
Transit hubsAuckland Airport (AKL) · Christchurch Airport (CHC) · Wellington Airport (WLG)
Health & vaccines for New Zealand
Recommended vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, polio, varicella, influenza)EssentialHepatitis ARecommendedTyphoidConsiderHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
Mosquito-borne diseases (rare)Low risk
Risk of Ross River virus and other arboviruses is low but present in some rural areas.
Food and water safetyLow risk
Tap water is safe; food hygiene standards are high.
Sun exposureModerate risk
High UV levels increase risk of sunburn and skin cancer; 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 CBD
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Main office for visa applications and inquiries; appointments recommended.
Wellington
Immigration New Zealand Wellington Office
Level 4, 80 The Terrace, Wellington
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Head office; handles complex cases and appeals.
Practical information for IL 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 = 1.69 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, Israeli passport holders need an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) for transit. Apply online at Immigration New Zealand. It costs about NZD $9 and is usually processed within minutes to a few days.
Standard processing takes 20–30 days. Apply well in advance of your travel date. You can check your application status online.
No, visitor visas for Israeli passport holders are not extendable. You must leave before your visa expires.
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your entry date. If it expires during your stay, you may face issues. Renew your passport before applying for the visa.
It's not explicitly required for the visa application, but immigration officers may ask about your ability to support yourself during your stay. Having a credit card or bank statement handy is a good idea.
You will be denied entry and sent back on the next available flight. You must have an approved visa before you travel.
Not 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 medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 24, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.