New Zealand entry requirements for Slovakia 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
Slovak passport holders need a visa to enter New Zealand. From 2026, you must apply for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before you travel. This online authorisation allows stays up to 90 days for tourism or business.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| New Zealand eVisitor visa (NZeTA)You need to apply for this online authorization before you fly; it is not a visa sticker in your passport. Apply online before travel | Slovak citizens 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 up to 2 years. | Required |
| Passport validityCheck your passport expiry – if it is too close, renew it before you travel. At least 6 months beyond departure | Your Slovak passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from New Zealand. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesMake sure there is an empty page in your passport for the immigration officer to stamp. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least 1 blank page for entry stamps. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketHave your flight booking or itinerary showing you will leave New Zealand before your visit ends. Proof of departure | Immigration may ask for evidence of a return or onward ticket to a country you are eligible to enter. Have your booking confirmation ready. | Required |
| Proof of sufficient fundsIt is wise to carry a recent bank statement or have access to funds to show if asked. Financial evidence | You may be asked to show you have enough money to cover your stay. A bank statement or credit card is usually acceptable. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou must fill this out before you land – it is a digital form that replaces paper arrival cards. New Zealand Traveller Declaration | All travellers must complete the New Zealand Traveller Declaration before arrival, usually within 24 hours before departure. This is done online or via the app. | Required |
Apply for NZeTA well in advance
Processing can take up to 72 hours, but sometimes longer. Don't wait until the day before your flight. Apply at least a week ahead to avoid stress.
Biosecurity is serious
New Zealand fines heavily for undeclared food or outdoor gear. Even a half-eaten apple in your bag can cost you NZD $400. Declare everything you're unsure about.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for NZeTA online
Go to the Immigration New Zealand website or download the NZeTA mobile app. Fill in your personal details, passport info, and answer health and character questions. Pay the fee (around NZD $9–$12 for the app, plus a tourism levy of NZD $35). Approval usually comes within 72 hours, but apply at least a week before your flight.
2
Prepare your documents
Gather your passport (valid 6+ months), print or save your NZeTA approval email, book your return/onward ticket, and confirm your first night's accommodation. Save screenshots of everything on your phone.
3
Arrive at Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch airport
Most flights from Europe arrive at Auckland Airport. Follow signs to 'Arrivals' and join the queue for passport control. Have your passport and NZeTA ready. The officer may ask about your travel plans, accommodation, and return ticket. Answer honestly and briefly.
4
Collect your luggage and clear customs
After passport control, collect your bags from the carousel. New Zealand has strict biosecurity rules — declare any food, outdoor gear, or animal products. If you're unsure, declare it. Fines are steep for undeclared items.
5
Exit and start your trip
Once through customs, you're free to leave the airport. Taxis, shuttles, and buses are available. If you arranged an eSIM, it should activate automatically on landing.
Download New Zealand Entry Checklist
PDF · Slovakia Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 5, 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
CostNZD $211
For longer stays or if you do not meet NZeTA requirements.
Work Visa (e.g., Essential Skills)
Max stayUp to 5 years
ValidityVaries by job offer
CostNZD $495–$1,105
Requires a job offer from a New Zealand employer.
Student Visa
Max stayDuration of course
ValidityUp to 4 years
CostNZD $345
Requires acceptance into an approved educational institution.
work visa
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
Indefinite (permanent residency after 2 years)
NZD 580 (~$360 USD) for initial application
For skilled workers with a job offer in an occupation on the skill shortage list. Requires points test based on age, experience, and qualifications. Leads to permanent residency.
Apply student visa
Student Visa
Duration of course (up to 4 years)
NZD 330 (~$205 USD)
For full-time study at an approved institution. Allows part-time work during studies and full-time during holidays. Pathway to post-study work visa.
Apply investor visa
Investor 2 Visa
4 years, leading to permanent residency
NZD 3,150 (~$1,950 USD) for initial application
For investors with NZD 3 million to invest in New Zealand over 4 years. Requires business experience and minimum age 65. Provides a pathway to residency.
Apply retirement visa
Parent Retirement Visa
Indefinite (permanent residency)
NZD 2,000 (~$1,240 USD) for initial application
For parents of New Zealand residents or citizens who have an adult child living in New Zealand. Requires significant funds (NZD 500,000) and annual income. Limited places available.
Apply Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) application feeMandatory for Slovak passport holders from 2026. | NZD $17 (mobile app) / NZD $23 (web) |
| International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)Paid as part of the NZeTA application. | NZD $35 |
| Visa extension (Visitor Visa)Possible to extend stay beyond 90 days, subject to conditions. | NZD $211 |
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
Slovak passport holders transiting through New Zealand airports (e.g., Auckland) do not need a visa if they stay airside and hold a confirmed onward ticket. However, an NZeTA is required for any entry into New Zealand, including transit, from 2026.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- If you need to leave the airport transit area (e.g., to collect luggage or change terminals), you must have an NZeTA or a Visitor 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 BRecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
Mosquito-borne diseases (e.g., Ross River virus)Low risk
Rare but present in some rural areas; use insect repellent.
Food and water safetyLow risk
Generally safe; standard hygiene practices 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, 45 Johnston Street, Wellington
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Head office; handles complex cases and appeals.
Practical information for SK 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, you need an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority). This is an online authorisation, not a sticker in your passport. Apply at least a week before travel. It costs around NZD $9–$12 via the app, plus a NZD $35 International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy.
Up to 90 days per visit. The NZeTA is valid for up to 2 years and allows multiple entries, as long as each stay doesn't exceed 90 days.
No, the NZeTA cannot be extended. If you want to stay longer, you need to apply for a different visa (like a visitor visa) before your current authorisation expires.
You will be denied boarding by the airline. Airlines check for NZeTA approval before issuing a boarding pass. If you somehow arrive without one, you'll be refused entry and sent back on the next flight.
Yes, immigration may ask for proof of onward travel. It's a standard requirement for all visitors. Keep a printed copy or screenshot on your phone.
New Zealand has strict biosecurity laws. Declare any food, plants, seeds, animal products, outdoor gear (tents, hiking boots), and medicines. If you're unsure, declare it. Fines start at NZD $400 for undeclared items.
No, but it's strongly recommended. Medical costs are high — a hospital stay can cost hundreds of dollars per day. Insurance also covers trip cancellations, lost luggage, and emergency evacuation.
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.