New Zealand entry requirements for South Korea 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
South Korean passport holders can travel to New Zealand without a traditional visa, but you'll need to apply for an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before you fly. The NZeTA is a quick online application, and once approved, it's valid for up to 2 years. Here's everything you need to know for a smooth entry in 2026.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| New Zealand eVisitor visa (NZeTA)You need this electronic travel authority to enter New Zealand; it is not a traditional visa but a mandatory pre-travel authorization. Apply online before travel | South Korean citizens must obtain an NZeTA (eVisitor visa) before boarding a flight to New Zealand. Apply through the official Immigration New Zealand website or 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, you may be denied boarding or entry. At least 6 months beyond departure | Your South Korean passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of departure from New Zealand. Check your passport's expiry date now. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesImmigration officers need a clean page to stamp your passport on arrival. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least 1 blank page for entry stamps. Ensure no pages are torn or damaged. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketNew Zealand wants evidence you will leave before your visa expires. Proof of departure | You must hold a confirmed return or onward ticket to a country you are eligible to enter. This is checked at check-in and may be requested by immigration on arrival. | Required |
| Proof of sufficient fundsCarry bank statements or a credit card to demonstrate financial means if asked. For your stay | You may be asked to show you have enough money to cover your stay. As a guideline, have at least NZD 1,000 per month of stay, or NZD 400 per month if your accommodation is prepaid. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou don't need to fill out an online declaration before arrival; just use the paper card provided in flight. New Zealand Traveller Declaration | No separate arrival declaration is required for South Korean citizens at this time. You will complete a standard passenger arrival card on the plane. | Not required |
| Visa extensionYou cannot extend your stay; plan your trip within the allowed period. Not applicable | The NZeTA does not allow extension of stay. You must leave New Zealand before your authorized stay expires (typically 3 months per visit). | Not required |
Apply early — don't risk it
While the NZeTA is often approved instantly, it can take up to 72 hours. If you apply at the last minute and there's a glitch, you could miss your flight. Apply at least a week before departure to be safe.
eGate is your friend
At major airports, use the eGate if you have an e-passport. It's faster and you don't need to talk to an officer. Just scan your passport and follow the prompts.
Biosecurity is no joke
New Zealand has some of the strictest biosecurity laws in the world. Fines for undeclared food or outdoor gear start at NZD $400. Always declare anything you're unsure about — it's better to be safe than sorry.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for NZeTA
Download the official NZeTA app or go to the Immigration New Zealand website. Fill in your passport details, personal info, and travel plans. Pay the fee (NZD $17 app / NZD $23 online) with a credit or debit card. You'll get a confirmation email — keep it handy.
2
Check in for your flight
At the airline check-in counter, present your passport. The airline will verify your NZeTA electronically. If you haven't applied, you won't be allowed to board.
3
Arrive in New Zealand
After landing at Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, or Queenstown, follow signs to 'Arrivals' and then 'Immigration'. Use the eGate if you have an e-passport (most Korean passports are) — just scan your passport and look at the camera. If eGate isn't available, join the queue for a border officer.
4
Show your passport and answer questions
The border officer will ask about your trip purpose, where you're staying, and how long you plan to stay. Answer honestly. They may stamp your passport, but often they don't for eGate users.
5
Collect your bags and pass through customs
After immigration, collect your luggage and proceed to the biosecurity check. New Zealand has strict biosecurity rules — declare any food, plants, or outdoor gear. If you're unsure, declare it. Failure to declare can result in a fine.
Download New Zealand Entry Checklist
PDF · South Korea 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 issue
CostNZD 211
For longer stays or if you do not qualify for NZeTA. Must apply online.
Work Visa (e.g., Working Holiday)
Max stayUp to 12 months
Validity12 months from first arrival
CostNZD 420
South Korean citizens aged 18-30 are eligible for the Working Holiday Scheme.
Business Visitor Visa
Max stayUp to 3 months per visit
ValidityUp to 2 years (multiple entry)
CostNZD 211
For business activities not covered by the NZeTA (e.g., longer or paid work).
work visa
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
Indefinite (residence)
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 test for age, experience, and qualifications. Leads to permanent residency.
Apply student visa
Student Visa (Full-time study)
Up to 4 years (course duration)
NZD 330 (~USD 203)
For full-time study at a New Zealand educational institution. Allows part-time work (20 hours/week) during term and full-time during holidays. Must have sufficient funds and health insurance.
Apply investor visa
Investor 2 Visa
4 years (leads to residence)
NZD 3,310 (~USD 2,040)
For investors with NZD 3 million to invest in New Zealand over 4 years. Requires business experience and English language ability. Pathway to permanent residency.
Apply Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) application feeRequired for visa waiver travellers, including South Korean passport holders. | NZD 17 (mobile app) or NZD 23 (web) |
| International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)Paid as part of the NZeTA application. | NZD 35 |
| Visa extension (Visitor Visa)For stays beyond the initial 3 months; apply online before current visa expires. | NZD 211 |
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
South Korean passport holders transiting through New Zealand airports do not need a visa if they remain airside and depart within 24 hours. However, an NZeTA is required for all international transits, even if you do not pass through immigration.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- If you need to leave the airport or pass through immigration, you must obtain a Visitor Visa (or NZeTA if eligible).
- If you are transiting to or from Australia, you may need a transit visa for Australia, but not for New Zealand.
Transit hubsAuckland Airport (AKL) · Wellington Airport (WLG) · Christchurch Airport (CHC)
Health & vaccines for New Zealand
Recommended vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, varicella)EssentialHepatitis ARecommendedTyphoidConsiderInfluenzaRecommended
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
Generally safe, but travellers should practice good hygiene to avoid gastroenteritis.
Sun exposure and UVHigh risk
New Zealand has 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 CBD
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Main office for visa applications and inquiries; appointments recommended.
Wellington
Immigration New Zealand Wellington Office
Level 4, 45 Johnston Street, Wellington
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Handles visa extensions and complex cases; bring all original documents.
Practical information for KR 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
No, you don't need a traditional visa. You need an NZeTA, which is an electronic travel authorization. It's quick to apply for and valid for up to 2 years.
The NZeTA costs NZD $17 if you apply via the mobile app, or NZD $23 if you apply online. This includes the IVL (International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy) of NZD $35. So total is NZD $52 (app) or NZD $58 (online).
You can stay for up to 3 months per visit. The NZeTA itself is valid for 2 years, so you can make multiple trips during that period, as long as each stay is 3 months or less.
No, the NZeTA is not extendable. If you want to stay longer, you'd need to apply for a different visa (like a visitor visa) before your current one expires. Overstaying is a serious offense.
You won't be allowed to board your flight. Airlines check NZeTA status at check-in. If you somehow arrive without one, you'll be put on the next flight back at your own expense. So apply well in advance.
Yes, every traveller, including infants and children, needs their own NZeTA. You'll need to apply for each child separately, using their own passport details.
It's similar, but not exactly the same. A visa waiver usually means you can just show up. The NZeTA is a pre-screening process that must be done before you travel. It's faster than a visa but still requires approval.
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.