Visa-Free Destinations for Kiwis: Guide for New Zealand Citizens and Permanent Residents

Aditya Shrivastava

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.

Table of contents

Visa-Free Countries for New Zealand Citizens

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:

CountryAllowed StayNotes
Albania90 days
Andorra90 days
Angola30 days30 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 Barbuda180 days
Argentina90 days
Armenia180 days
AustraliaIndefiniteSpecial Category Visa granted on arrival under the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement
Austria90 days90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area
Bahamas90 days
Barbados180 days
Belarus30 days
Belgium90 days90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area
Belize
Bolivia90 days
Bosnia and Herzegovina90 days
Botswana90 days
Brazil90 days
Brunei30 days
Bulgaria90 days90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area
Canada6 monthseTA required if arriving by air
Chile90 days
China30 daysVisa-free from July 1, 2024 to December 31, 2025. This is a temporary visa-free arrangement.
Colombia90 days
Costa Rica90 days
Croatia90 days90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area
Cyprus90 days
Czech Republic90 days90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area
Denmark90 days90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area
Dominica180 days
Dominican Republic
Ecuador90 days
El Salvador90 days
Estonia90 days90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area
Eswatini30 days
Fiji120 days
Finland90 days90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area
France90 days90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area
Gambia90 days
Georgia360 days
Germany90 days90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area
Greece90 days90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area
Grenada90 days
Guatemala90 days
Guyana90 days
Haiti90 days
Honduras90 days
Hong Kong90 days
Hungary90 days90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area
Iceland90 days90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area
Ireland90 days
Israel90 days
Italy90 days90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area
Jamaica
Japan90 days
Kazakhstan30 days
Kiribati120 days
Kosovo90 days
Kyrgyzstan60 days
Latvia90 days90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area
Lesotho14 days
Liechtenstein90 days
Lithuania90 days
Luxembourg90 days
Malaysia90 days
Malta90 days
Mauritius90 days
Mexico180 days
Micronesia30 days
Moldova90 days
Monaco90 days
Montenegro90 days
Morocco90 days
Namibia90 days
Netherlands90 days
Nicaragua90 days
North Macedonia90 days
Norway90 days
Palau
Panama90 days
Paraguay90 days
Peru180 days
Philippines30 days
Poland90 days
Portugal90 days
Romania90 days
Saint Kitts and Nevis90 days
Saint Lucia42 days
San Marino90 days
Senegal90 days
Serbia90 days
Singapore30 days
Slovakia90 days
Slovenia90 days
South Africa90 days
South Korea90 daysElectronic Travel Authority (K-ETA) required, valid for 3 years.
Spain90 days
St. Vincent and the Grenadines30 days
Sweden90 days
Switzerland90 days
Taiwan90 days
Tajikistan30 days
Thailand30 days
Tunisia90 days
Turkey90 days
Ukraine90 days
United Kingdom180 days
Uruguay90 days
Uzbekistan30 days
Vanuatu30 days
Vatican City90 days
Venezuela90 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.  

Get Started with Wise 🚀

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.
  • Travel Insurance: It's highly recommended to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. Check out our review of best travel insurance available in New Zealand 👉

Start Planning Your Visa-Free Adventure

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.


Sources

*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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