New Zealand entry requirements for Latvia 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
Latvian passport holders need a visa to enter New Zealand. Apply online for a visitor visa before you travel — there's no visa on arrival. This requirement is in place for 2026.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority)You need this electronic travel authority before you fly; it's not a visa but a mandatory pre-travel clearance. Visa waiver for Latvian citizens | Latvian 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 for multiple visits. | Required |
| Passport validityIf your passport expires sooner, you may be denied boarding or entry. At least 6 months beyond departure | Your Latvian passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from New Zealand. Ensure your passport meets this before applying for NZeTA. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesThe border officer needs a clean page to stamp your passport. 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 ticket out of New Zealand helps prove you're a genuine visitor. Proof of onward travel | Although not always checked, you should carry proof of a return or onward ticket to show you intend to leave New Zealand before your permitted stay ends. Immigration may ask for it. | Recommended |
| Proof of sufficient fundsImmigration wants to see you can cover your expenses without working illegally. Financial evidence | You may be asked to show you have enough money to support yourself during your stay. Amounts vary, but NZ$1,000 per month is a common guideline. Carry bank statements or credit cards. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationThis digital form replaces the paper arrival card; you'll need to show the QR code on arrival. New Zealand Traveller Declaration | You must complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration before arriving. This is done online within 24 hours before departure. It covers customs, biosecurity, and health information. | Required |
| Visa extensionYou cannot extend your stay under the NZeTA; plan your trip accordingly. Not available for NZeTA visitors | The NZeTA does not allow for visa extensions. You must leave New Zealand before your permitted stay expires. Overstaying can lead to penalties and future entry issues. | Not required |
Apply early — processing takes weeks
New Zealand visitor visa processing can take 20–30 days. Don't book non-refundable flights until you have the visa approved.
Passport validity counts from entry date
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day you land in New Zealand, not from when you leave. Check the expiry date before applying.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for a visitor visa online
Go to the Immigration New Zealand website and complete the online visitor visa application. You'll need your passport details, travel dates, and proof of funds. Pay the fee (around NZD 211 for a standard visitor visa). Processing takes 20–30 days on average.
2
Wait for visa approval
Once submitted, Immigration New Zealand will process your application. You'll receive an email with the decision. If approved, the visa is linked electronically to your passport.
3
Prepare your documents for travel
Before departure, print or save on your phone: visa approval email, passport, return ticket, accommodation booking, and travel insurance. Keep them easily accessible.
4
Arrive at Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch airport
At the airport, go to the 'Visitors' queue. Hand over your passport and any requested documents. The officer may ask about your plans, funds, and return ticket. Answer clearly. You'll get an entry stamp valid for up to 3 months.
Download New Zealand Entry Checklist
PDF · Latvia 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 stayUp to 6 months
ValidityUp to 12 months
CostNZD 341
For business meetings, conferences, or negotiations; must not work for a New Zealand employer.
Work visa (e.g., Essential Skills)
Max stayUp to 5 years (depending on job offer)
ValidityVaries
CostNZD 750+
Requires a job offer from a New Zealand employer and may require a labour market test.
Student visa
Max stayDuration of course
ValidityUp to 4 years
CostNZD 375
Requires acceptance into an approved educational institution and proof of funds.
work visa
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
Indefinite (permanent residency)
NZD 4,290 (~USD 2,640)
For skilled workers with a job offer in New Zealand. Points-based system; requires age, experience, and qualifications.
Apply student visa
Student Visa
Up to 4 years (course duration)
NZD 330 (~USD 203)
For full-time study at an approved institution. Allows part-time work during term and full-time during holidays.
Apply investor visa
Investor 2 Visa
4 years (leads to residency)
NZD 4,290 (~USD 2,640)
For investors with NZD 3 million to invest in New Zealand over 4 years. Requires business experience and English proficiency.
Apply Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) application feeRequired for visa-waiver countries; not applicable to Latvian passport holders who need a full visitor visa. | NZD 17 (mobile app) or NZD 23 (web) |
| Visitor visa application fee (standard)Non-refundable, paid online via Immigration New Zealand. | NZD 341 |
| International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)Paid as part of the visa application; valid for up to 2 years. | NZD 100 |
| Visa extension (Visitor visa)Apply online before current visa expires; must meet character and health requirements. | NZD 341 |
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
Latvian citizens are visa-exempt for transit through New Zealand airports, provided they hold a valid visa for their final destination (if required) and do not leave the airport transit area.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- If you need to leave the airport transit area (e.g., to stay overnight or change terminals), you must hold a valid NZeTA or visitor visa.
- If you are transiting to or from Australia, you must meet Australia's transit visa requirements.
Transit hubsAuckland Airport (AKL) · Wellington Airport (WLG) · Christchurch Airport (CHC)
Health & vaccines for New Zealand
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis ARecommendedTyphoidConsiderRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, etc.)EssentialInfluenzaRecommended
Health risks
Mosquito-borne diseases (rare)Low risk
Dengue and Ross River virus are rare but possible in some regions.
Food and water safetyLow risk
Generally safe; standard precautions recommended.
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 CBD
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Main office for visa applications and inquiries; appointments recommended.
Wellington
Immigration New Zealand Wellington Office
Level 4, 50 The Terrace, Wellington
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Handles visa extensions and complex cases.
Practical information for LV 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
Nearby destinations you can also visit
Countries close to New Zealand — with your same passport.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Latvia is not on the visa-waiver list for New Zealand. You must apply for a visitor visa online before you travel.
Standard processing takes 20–30 days. Apply well in advance — at least 2 months before your planned travel.
The standard visitor visa fee is NZD 211 (~USD 130). This includes the application fee and an immigration levy. Fees are subject to change — check the Immigration New Zealand website for the latest.
No. The visitor visa is not extendable. You must leave before your visa expires. Overstaying can affect future travel.
Your passport (valid 6+ months), visa approval email, return ticket, and proof of first night accommodation. Travel insurance is strongly recommended but not always checked.
Yes. You need a booked onward ticket out of New Zealand. A one-way ticket is not enough — immigration will ask for proof of onward travel.
No. There is no visa on arrival for Latvian passport holders. You must have a visa approved before you board your flight.
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.