New Zealand entry requirements for Romania passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 31, 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
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 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 comes within minutes, but apply at least 72 hours ahead to be safe.Apply for NZeTA | Required |
| Valid passport Must be valid for the duration of your stay | Your Romanian passport needs to be valid for the entire time you plan to be in New Zealand. Airlines check this at check-in, and immigration officers enforce it on arrival. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of departure from New Zealand | Immigration will ask for a confirmed onward or return ticket. Without one, you risk being denied boarding or entry. A ticket to any destination outside New Zealand works. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host invitation | Have a hotel confirmation or a letter from your host ready. Officers rarely ask for it, but if they do, you need a printed or digital copy. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Evidence you can support yourself | Carry bank statements or a credit card showing you have at least $1,000 NZD per month of your stay. Immigration may ask to see it if you look short on cash. | Recommended |
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 May 31, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay9 months
ValidityUp to 18 months from issue date
CostNZD 211 (~USD 130)
Requires proof of funds, itinerary, and return ticket.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay9 months per visit
ValidityUp to 18 months from issue date
CostNZD 422 (~USD 260)
Ideal for frequent travelers; must demonstrate need for multiple entries.
Work visa
Max stayUp to 3 years
ValidityBased on job offer
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 205)
Must be enrolled in a full-time course at an approved institution.
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 |
|---|---|
| Tourist visa (single entry)Standard fee for a single-entry visitor visa. | NZD 211 (~USD 130) |
| Tourist visa (multiple entry)Allows multiple entries within validity period. | NZD 422 (~USD 260) |
| Stay extension feeFor extending visitor visa beyond initial stay. | NZD 270 (~USD 165) |
| Overstay fine per dayPenalty for overstaying visa conditions. | NZD 100 (~USD 62) per day, max NZD 1,000 (~USD 620) |
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
Romanian 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 passing through 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 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 = 1.69 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
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.
Yes, Romanian passport holders need a transit visa if you're passing through New Zealand to another country. The transit visa is free and can be applied for online. You must have a confirmed onward ticket and not leave the airport transit area.
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 May 31, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.