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.
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.
Visa on Arrival for New Zealand Citizens
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:
Bahrain
Bangladesh
Bolivia
Burundi
Cambodia
Cape Verde
Comoros
Djibouti
Egypt
Guinea-Bissau
Indonesia
Iran
Jordan
Kuwait
Laos
Lebanon
Madagascar
Malawi
Maldives
Mauritania
Mozambique
Nepal
Palau
Samoa
Senegal
Seychelles
Solomon Islands
Tanzania
Togo
Tonga
Tuvalu
Uganda
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.
Countries with Online Visa Applications
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:
Azerbaijan
Benin
Bhutan
Cambodia
Cameroon
Côte d'Ivoire
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Djibouti
Equatorial Guinea
Ethiopia
Gabon
Guinea
India
Kenya
Kyrgyzstan
Laos
Libya
Myanmar
Pakistan
Papua New Guinea
Rwanda
Saint Kitts and Nevis
São Tomé and Príncipe
South Sudan
Sri Lanka
Suriname
Tajikistan
Turkey
Uganda
Zambia
Zimbabwe
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.
Visa-Free Travel for New Zealand Permanent Residents
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.
Visa-Free Privileges for Regular New Zealand Visa Holders
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.
Meet Wise: Travel Card for International Spending
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:
Low Transparent Fees: Wise charges minimal fees for transactions and currency conversions, making it a cost-effective way to spend money abroad.
Mid-Market Exchange Rates: You'll get the mid-market exchange rate, which is the fairest rate you can get and the one you usually see on Google.
Multi-currency Account: Hold and manage money in multiple currencies with Wise Account, making it easy to budget and track your spending.
Easy to Use: The Wise app allows you to manage your account, track your spending, and top up your card on the go.
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.
Tips for Smooth Travels
To ensure your travels are as smooth as possible, keep the following tips in mind:
Passport Validity: Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining from your intended departure date from your destination country.
Onward Travel: Have proof of onward travel, such as a return ticket or a ticket to your next destination.
Sufficient Funds: Be prepared to demonstrate that you have enough funds to cover your expenses during your trip.
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.
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.
Planning to use your Kiwibank debit card overseas? Learn about transaction fees, ATM withdrawal charges, and tips for saving money while traveling abroad.
Planning to use your Westpac debit card overseas? Learn about transaction fees, ATM withdrawal charges, and tips for saving money while traveling abroad.