Eligibility for the ETIAS for New Zealand Citizens

  • New Zealand is one of the launch members for the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).
  • In 2025, New Zealand citizens will become eligible to apply for the ETIAS.
  • The online application system for the ETIAS is a convenient and easy way for New Zealand citizens to apply.

Requirements for the ETIAS:

  • New Zealand citizens are able to apply for the ETIAS through an online application process.
  • The ETIAS is valid for entry into Europe by air, sea, or overland.
  • To be eligible to apply for the ETIAS, travelers must have a machine-readable e-passport.
  • The ETIAS is intended for short-term visits for purposes such as tourism, business, transit, or medical treatment.
  • Applicants who are under the age of 18 or over the age of 70 will be able to receive their ETIAS without incurring any fees.

As of 2025, New Zealand citizens traveling to participating European countries for short term purposes such as tourism, business, transit, or medical treatment will be required to apply for an ETIAS. The ETIAS, or European Travel Information and Authorization System, is a new screening program designed in response to the increasing threat of global terrorism.

The approval for the ETIAS program was granted in 2016, but it took four years for the necessary systems to be developed and integrated with existing immigration databases and security information. This extensive development process was required to provide a seamless and efficient screening tool for the participating European countries.

The ETIAS program will be in effect from 2025 onwards and is aimed at streamlining the travel process for those who intend to visit Europe for short term purposes. It will provide an additional layer of security and help to identify any potential security threats before they arrive in Europe. The information collected through the ETIAS program will be used to determine whether a traveler poses a threat to the security of the participating countries and whether they should be granted entry.

Starting in 2025, citizens of New Zealand will be required to obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) authorization before traveling to Europe via aircraft, sea carrier, or coach vehicle. This applies to all travelers, including those who are only transiting in Europe on their way to other destinations.

However, it’s important to note that for New Zealand citizens who intend to stay in Europe for more than 90 days, or for purposes not covered by the ETIAS program, a Schengen visa will be required. More information can be found by using the homepage assessment tool on the ETIAS website, https://etias.co.uk/.

In order to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience, it’s recommended that New Zealand citizens complete their ETIAS application at least 96 hours prior to their departure date. To make the process as straightforward as possible, it’s advised to review the ETIAS requirements page and the ETIAS FAQ’s on the website before starting the application. This will help avoid any delays or the risk of an ETIAS being refused.

From 2025, a requirement for obtaining an ETIAS authorization for travelers entering Europe will be that they must be full citizens of New Zealand. This means that individuals who hold a passport or travel document with a different status may not be eligible for an ETIAS and may need to apply for a full Schengen visitor visa instead.

It is expected that the application process for ETIAS for New Zealander citizens will be quick and seamless, with the authorization being granted in a matter of minutes. The approval will be sent to the applicant’s email address in the form of a PDF document. This means that there will be no need for the applicant to print any documents or present them physically as the ETIAS will be stored electronically in the European Immigration system linked to the passport details of the individual.

This new requirement and process of obtaining ETIAS for New Zealander citizens will be a great advantage for them as they will be able to travel to the countries within the Schengen Area with ease and convenience. The electronic storage of ETIAS will also make it easier for the immigration authorities to verify the travel authorization of the individual and enhance the overall security of the Schengen Area.

Benefits of ETIAS:

  • With the ETIAS authorization, travelers are able to make multiple entries into Europe, provided that each visit does not exceed a duration of 90 days.
  • The ETIAS authorization process is quick and convenient, with electronic delivery of the ETIAS. It can be applied for using a desktop, tablet, or mobile device.
  • The ETIAS is a travel authorization that is valid for three years from the date of issuance. During this period, it can be used for multiple entries into Europe, each of which can last up to 90 days.

Advice for ETIAS Application:

  • When applying for an ETIAS, it is recommended to submit the application at least 96 hours prior to departure. This will ensure that there is sufficient time for the application to be processed and approved.
  • It’s noteworthy that securing an ETIAS does not ensure a traveler’s admission into Europe, as the ultimate authority to allow or refuse entry is held by the border security personnel of the European country of arrival.
  • If the ETIAS application is denied, travelers can still apply for a full visitor visa. However, the decision to grant entry into Europe is ultimately up to the border security personnel of the country of arrival.