New Zealand entry requirements for Romania 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
Romanian passport holders need a visa to enter New Zealand. Apply for a visitor visa online before you travel. This requirement applies in 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 authorization. Visa waiver for Romanian citizens | Romanian passport holders must obtain an NZeTA before boarding a flight to New Zealand. Apply online or via the official NZeTA mobile app. The NZeTA is valid for up to 2 years for multiple entries. | Required |
| Passport validityYour passport must not expire too soon after your trip – check the expiry date well in advance. At least 6 months beyond departure | Your Romanian 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 pagesMake sure there's an empty page in your passport for any stamps or visas. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least one blank page for entry stamps. Although New Zealand often uses electronic records, a blank page is still required by immigration. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketIt's wise to have a booked flight out of New Zealand – immigration might ask to see it. Proof of departure | You may be asked to show evidence of a return or onward ticket when checking in or upon arrival. This is to confirm you will leave New Zealand before your permitted stay ends. | Recommended |
| Proof of sufficient fundsCarry bank statements or credit cards to show you can support yourself during your visit. Financial evidence | Although not always requested, be prepared to show proof of sufficient funds for your stay. There is no fixed amount, but you should have access to at least NZD 1,000 per month of stay, or NZD 400 if accommodation is prepaid. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou must fill out an online declaration before you arrive – it's a customs and biosecurity requirement. New Zealand Traveller Declaration | All travellers to New Zealand must complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration before arrival. This is a digital form that can be submitted up to 24 hours before departure. It is not required to be submitted in advance, but it is mandatory to complete before landing. | Required |
| Visa extensionYou cannot extend your stay under the NZeTA – plan your trip accordingly. Not applicable | The NZeTA does not allow for visa extensions. If you wish to stay longer than the permitted period, you must apply for a different visa before your current authorization expires. | Not required |
Apply for your visa well in advance
Processing times can be 2–4 weeks or longer. Don't wait until the last minute. Apply at least 6 weeks before your departure to avoid delays.
Passport validity counts from entry, not departure
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the day you arrive in New Zealand. If it expires sooner, renew it before applying for the visa.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the visitor visa online
Go to the Immigration New Zealand website and complete the visitor visa application. Upload your passport scan, travel itinerary, and proof of funds. Pay the fee (around NZD 246 for a standard visitor visa). Processing takes 2–4 weeks, sometimes longer.
2
Wait for visa approval
You'll receive an email with your visa decision. If approved, the visa is linked to your passport electronically. Print a copy or save the approval letter on your phone.
3
Pack your documents
Before you fly, gather: passport (valid 6+ months), visa approval, return ticket, first night accommodation booking, and travel insurance. Keep digital copies on your phone and a printed backup.
4
Arrive at Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch airport
At immigration, present your passport and visa. The officer may ask about your plans, funds, and return ticket. Answer clearly. You'll get a stamp or electronic entry record. Then collect your bags and clear customs.
Download New Zealand Entry Checklist
PDF · Romania Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 5, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Work Visa (e.g., Essential Skills, Accredited Employer)
Max stayUp to 3 years (depending on role)
ValidityVaries; typically 1–3 years
CostNZD 750–1,050
Requires a job offer from an accredited employer and meeting skill/health requirements.
Student Visa
Max stayDuration of course (up to 4 years)
ValidityCourse length
CostNZD 375
Must be enrolled in an approved course; may work part-time.
Business Visitor Visa
Max stayUp to 6 months
ValidityUp to 12 months
CostNZD 341
For business meetings, conferences, or negotiations; no local employment.
Resident Visa (Skilled Migrant Category)
Max stayIndefinite
ValidityPermanent residence
CostNZD 4,290
Points-based; requires job offer, age, health, and character requirements.
work visa
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
Indefinite (permanent residency)
NZD 4,950 (~USD 3,050)
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.
Apply student visa
Student Visa (Full-time study)
Up to 4 years
NZD 330 (~USD 205)
For enrollment in a full-time course at an approved New Zealand institution. Allows part-time work during study and full-time during holidays.
Apply investor visa
Investor 1 Resident Visa
Indefinite (permanent residency after 3 years)
NZD 5,000 (~USD 3,080)
For high-net-worth individuals investing NZD 10 million in New Zealand over 3 years. No age or English requirement. Includes family.
Apply Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) application feeRequired for visa-waiver travellers; Romanian citizens must apply for a Visitor Visa instead. | NZD 17 (mobile app) / NZD 23 (web) |
| Visitor Visa application feeStandard fee for most applicants; includes processing. | NZD 341 |
| International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)Paid as part of the visa application; valid for multiple visits over 12 months. | NZD 100 |
| Visa extension (Visitor Visa)Apply online before current visa expires; must meet 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
Transit visa required
Romanian citizens transiting through New Zealand (including airside) must hold a valid NZeTA or Visitor Visa. Since Romania is not visa-waiver, a Visitor Visa is required for transit.
Exceptions & conditions
- If you hold a valid New Zealand visa or NZeTA (but Romanian citizens are not eligible for NZeTA).
- If you are an Australian permanent resident or hold a valid Australian visa.
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 BRecommended
Health risks
Mosquito-borne diseases (e.g., Ross River virus)Low risk
Rare in urban areas; risk increases in rural and forested regions.
Food and water safetyLow risk
Tap water is safe; food hygiene standards are high.
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
Appointments required for most services; bring all original documents.
Wellington
Immigration New Zealand Wellington Office
Level 4, 45 Pipitea Street, Wellington 6011
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Main office for visa applications and inquiries.
Practical information for RO 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
Standard processing takes 2 to 4 weeks, but it can be longer during peak seasons. Apply at least 6 weeks before your trip. You can check current processing times on the Immigration New Zealand website.
Yes, you can apply for an extension before your current visa expires. Extensions are granted on a case-by-case basis. The fee is around NZD 246. You must show you have funds to support the extended stay and a valid reason.
You need a valid passport to travel. If your passport expires, the visa is not automatically transferred. You'll need to apply for a new visa with your new passport. Always keep your passport valid for the entire trip.
No, Romanian passport holders do not need a transit visa to change planes in New Zealand, provided you remain airside and have a confirmed onward ticket. If you leave the airport or pass through immigration, you'll need a visitor visa.
No, a visitor visa does not allow you to work. You can only engage in tourism, visiting family, or short-term study (up to 3 months). If you want to work, you need a work visa.
Have your passport, visa approval (electronic or printed), return ticket, proof of accommodation for your first night, and evidence of sufficient funds (bank statements or credit card). Immigration officers may ask about your travel plans and how you'll support yourself.
It is not mandatory for a visitor visa, but it is strongly recommended. New Zealand's healthcare system charges for hospital visits and medical treatment. Without insurance, you could face significant costs if you get sick or injured.
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.