New Zealand entry requirements for Israel 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
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 |
|---|---|---|
| New Zealand eVisitor visa (NZeTA)You must get this online approval before you fly; without it you won't be allowed to board. Apply online before travel | Israeli passport holders must obtain an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before boarding a flight to New Zealand. The application is completed online and is valid for multiple visits over 2 years. The NZeTA is not a visa but an entry requirement for visa-waiver countries. | Required |
| Passport validityCheck your passport expiry date – if it's too close, renew it before applying for the NZeTA. At least 6 months beyond departure | Your Israeli passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from New Zealand. Ensure your passport does not expire within this period. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesMake sure there's a clean, unmarked page in your passport for the immigration officer to stamp. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least one blank page for the entry stamp. This is a standard requirement for all international arrivals. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketHaving a booked flight out of New Zealand helps show you're a genuine visitor and not planning to overstay. Proof of departure | Although not always checked, you should carry proof of a return or onward ticket to a country you have the right to enter. Immigration officers may ask to see it to confirm you intend to leave New Zealand before your permitted stay ends. | Recommended |
| Proof of sufficient fundsCarry bank statements or a credit card to prove you can cover your expenses while in New Zealand. Financial evidence | You may be asked to show you have enough money to support yourself during your stay. There is no fixed amount, but you should have access to at least NZD 1,000 per month of stay, or evidence of prepaid accommodation and meals. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou'll need to fill this online form before you fly – it's quick and replaces the old paper arrival card. New Zealand Traveller Declaration | All travellers to New Zealand must complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration before arrival. This is a digital declaration that can be submitted up to 24 hours before departure. It covers customs, biosecurity, and health information. | Required |
| Visa extensionYou can't extend an NZeTA stay – plan your trip within the allowed time or apply for a proper visitor visa. Not applicable | The NZeTA does not allow for extensions. If you wish to stay longer than the permitted visitor period (usually up to 3 months), you must apply for a different visa before your current entry permission expires. | Not required |
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 August 5, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Business Visitor Visa
Max stay9 months
ValidityUp to 3 years (multiple entry)
CostNZD $341 (standard) or NZD $431 (refundable)
For business meetings, conferences, or negotiations; no local employment.
Work Visa (Essential Skills)
Max stayUp to 5 years (depending on job offer)
ValidityVaries with employment contract
CostNZD $580 (base fee)
Requires a job offer from a New Zealand employer and may require a labour market test.
Student Visa
Max stayDuration of study program
ValidityUp to 4 years
CostNZD $375
Requires acceptance into an approved 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 |
|---|---|
| NZeTA (for transit only)Required for transit through New Zealand airports. | NZD $17 (mobile app) or NZD $23 (web) |
| Visitor Visa (standard)For stays up to 9 months; non-refundable. | NZD $341 |
| Visitor Visa (fee refundable)Refundable if visa is not granted; higher fee. | NZD $431 |
| International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)Paid as part of visa application; valid for multiple entries over 12 months. | NZD $100 |
| Visa extension (Visitor Visa)Possible to extend up to 9 months total stay; apply online. | NZD $341 |
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
Transit visa required
Israeli passport holders transiting through New Zealand must obtain an NZeTA before travel, even if staying airside.
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of a valid New Zealand visa
- Holders of a valid Australian permanent residence visa
- Holders of a valid UK visa (for transit only, if arriving from and departing to the UK)
Transit hubsAuckland Airport (AKL) · Wellington Airport (WLG) · Christchurch Airport (CHC)
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 = 1.76 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, 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 August 5, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.