New Zealand passport holders are fortunate to possess a powerful travel document that unlocks a world of visa-free exploration. Ranked among the top passports globally, it grants access to an impressive number of countries, making it easier than ever to embark on new adventures. This guide explores the extensive visa-free travel options available to New Zealand citizens and permanent residents, encompassing destinations with no visa requirements, visa-on-arrival facilities, and streamlined online visa application processes. Whether you're yearning for a short getaway or a long-term journey, this guide will help you navigate the world with ease.
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New Zealand citizens can travel to a vast array of countries without the need for a visa, often enjoying extended stays for leisure or business. These destinations offer a diverse tapestry of experiences, from ancient wonders and bustling metropolises to serene landscapes and thrilling adventures.
Here's a table summarizing the visa-free countries for New Zealand citizens:
| Country | Allowed Stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Albania | 90 days | |
| Andorra | 90 days | |
| Angola | 30 days | 30 days per trip, but no more than 90 days within any 1 calendar year for tourism purposes only. Visitors must have a return/onward ticket and a hotel reservation confirmation. |
| Antigua and Barbuda | 180 days | |
| Argentina | 90 days | |
| Armenia | 180 days | |
| Australia | Indefinite | Special Category Visa granted on arrival under the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement |
| Austria | 90 days | 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area |
| Bahamas | 90 days | |
| Barbados | 180 days | |
| Belarus | 30 days | |
| Belgium | 90 days | 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area |
| Belize | ||
| Bolivia | 90 days | |
| Bosnia and Herzegovina | 90 days | |
| Botswana | 90 days | |
| Brazil | 90 days | |
| Brunei | 30 days | |
| Bulgaria | 90 days | 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area |
| Canada | 6 months | eTA required if arriving by air |
| Chile | 90 days | |
| China | 30 days | Visa-free from July 1, 2024 to December 31, 2025. This is a temporary visa-free arrangement. |
| Colombia | 90 days | |
| Costa Rica | 90 days | |
| Croatia | 90 days | 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area |
| Cyprus | 90 days | |
| Czech Republic | 90 days | 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area |
| Denmark | 90 days | 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area |
| Dominica | 180 days | |
| Dominican Republic | ||
| Ecuador | 90 days | |
| El Salvador | 90 days | |
| Estonia | 90 days | 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area |
| Eswatini | 30 days | |
| Fiji | 120 days | |
| Finland | 90 days | 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area |
| France | 90 days | 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area |
| Gambia | 90 days | |
| Georgia | 360 days | |
| Germany | 90 days | 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area |
| Greece | 90 days | 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area |
| Grenada | 90 days | |
| Guatemala | 90 days | |
| Guyana | 90 days | |
| Haiti | 90 days | |
| Honduras | 90 days | |
| Hong Kong | 90 days | |
| Hungary | 90 days | 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area |
| Iceland | 90 days | 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area |
| Ireland | 90 days | |
| Israel | 90 days | |
| Italy | 90 days | 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area |
| Jamaica | ||
| Japan | 90 days | |
| Kazakhstan | 30 days | |
| Kiribati | 120 days | |
| Kosovo | 90 days | |
| Kyrgyzstan | 60 days | |
| Latvia | 90 days | 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area |
| Lesotho | 14 days | |
| Liechtenstein | 90 days | |
| Lithuania | 90 days | |
| Luxembourg | 90 days | |
| Malaysia | 90 days | |
| Malta | 90 days | |
| Mauritius | 90 days | |
| Mexico | 180 days | |
| Micronesia | 30 days | |
| Moldova | 90 days | |
| Monaco | 90 days | |
| Montenegro | 90 days | |
| Morocco | 90 days | |
| Namibia | 90 days | |
| Netherlands | 90 days | |
| Nicaragua | 90 days | |
| North Macedonia | 90 days | |
| Norway | 90 days | |
| Palau | ||
| Panama | 90 days | |
| Paraguay | 90 days | |
| Peru | 180 days | |
| Philippines | 30 days | |
| Poland | 90 days | |
| Portugal | 90 days | |
| Romania | 90 days | |
| Saint Kitts and Nevis | 90 days | |
| Saint Lucia | 42 days | |
| San Marino | 90 days | |
| Senegal | 90 days | |
| Serbia | 90 days | |
| Singapore | 30 days | |
| Slovakia | 90 days | |
| Slovenia | 90 days | |
| South Africa | 90 days | |
| South Korea | 90 days | Electronic Travel Authority (K-ETA) required, valid for 3 years. |
| Spain | 90 days | |
| St. Vincent and the Grenadines | 30 days | |
| Sweden | 90 days | |
| Switzerland | 90 days | |
| Taiwan | 90 days | |
| Tajikistan | 30 days | |
| Thailand | 30 days | |
| Tunisia | 90 days | |
| Turkey | 90 days | |
| Ukraine | 90 days | |
| United Kingdom | 180 days | |
| Uruguay | 90 days | |
| Uzbekistan | 30 days | |
| Vanuatu | 30 days | |
| Vatican City | 90 days | |
| Venezuela | 90 days |
Remember to always check the specific entry requirements of your chosen destination before traveling, as conditions such as holding a return ticket, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds may apply. For the latest travel advisories and detailed entry requirements, refer to the New Zealand government's SafeTravel website.
For those who prefer a more spontaneous approach to travel, several countries offer visa-on-arrival facilities to New Zealand citizens. This convenient option allows you to obtain your visa upon arrival at the destination's airport or border crossing, eliminating the need for advance applications.
Here are some of the countries that provide visa-on-arrival for New Zealand citizens:
While visa-on-arrival offers convenience, it's crucial to remember that requirements and fees can vary significantly between countries and are subject to change. Always confirm the latest regulations with the relevant embassy or consulate and ensure you have the necessary documents, such as a valid passport, return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds, to avoid any complications upon arrival.
For tech-savvy travellers, many countries offer streamlined online visa application processes, simplifying the pre-travel preparations. These online platforms typically involve completing an application form, uploading the required documents, and paying the visa fee electronically, all from the comfort of your home.
Here are some countries with user-friendly online visa application systems for New Zealand citizens:
Before applying for an online visa, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria and have all the required documents, such as a valid passport, passport-sized photographs, and a detailed travel itinerary.
New Zealand permanent residents may sometimes enjoy the same visa-free travel privileges as New Zealand citizens. However, it's important to note that there might be some exceptions to this general rule. Therefore, it's always advisable for permanent residents to confirm the specific visa requirements of their destination country before making travel plans.
Regular New Zealand residency holders, who have not yet obtained permanent residency, have limited visa-free travel privileges compared to citizens and permanent residents. It's essential to check the specific visa requirements of the destination country based on your residency status.
Compared to regular residency holders, permanent residents have greater travel freedom. While regular residency allows individuals to live and work in New Zealand, it may not automatically grant the same visa-free privileges as citizenship or permanent residency.
When travelling internationally, managing your finances efficiently is crucial. The Wise travel card is a great option for New Zealanders who want to avoid hefty foreign transaction fees and markups on mid-market exchange rates.
Here are some of its benefits:
With its transparent pricing and user-friendly interface, the Wise travel card available for a one-time of NZD 14 can help you make the most of your international travel budget.
To ensure your travels are as smooth as possible, keep the following tips in mind:
New Zealand citizens and permanent residents enjoy remarkable travel freedom, with visa-free access to a vast network of countries across the globe. Whether you're seeking a quick escape to the islands of the Pacific, an adventure in Southeast Asia, or a cultural immersion in Europe, numerous destinations await without the need for cumbersome visa applications.
For those who value convenience, many countries offer visa-on-arrival or streamlined online visa application processes, making it easier than ever to plan your next trip. By staying informed about visa requirements, utilizing online resources, and confirming the latest travel advisories, you can embark on your journeys with confidence and explore the world with ease.
Remember to always check the latest travel advisories and specific entry requirements of your chosen destination before you travel.
*Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.
This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.
We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.
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