New Zealand Launches Visa Waiver Trial for Chinese Visitors from Australia

Immigration New Zealand has announced a new visa waiver trial aimed at simplifying travel for Chinese nationals residing in Australia. Starting from 3 November, Chinese citizens with an eligible Australian visa will only need to apply for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) to visit New Zealand. This initiative is designed to streamline the travel process, making it faster and more cost-effective.

Chris Adamson, acting director for visas at Immigration New Zealand, emphasized the significance of this change for both tourism and business. “China is one of New Zealand’s most important markets, providing opportunities for our tourism sector, boosting trade and business relationships, and connecting friends and family,” Adamson stated.

To qualify for the NZeTA, applicants must meet specific criteria. They must travel directly from Australia, hold a valid and eligible Australian visa, and demonstrate good health and character. Furthermore, they must intend to leave New Zealand at the end of their stay. Eligible visas include work, family, student, and visitor visas, as detailed by Immigration New Zealand. A complete list of qualifying visas is available on their official website at www.immigration.govt.nz/china-nzeta.

Adamson advised travelers to ensure their Australian visas are valid and eligible when checking in for flights to New Zealand.

In a related update, beginning 27 October, Chinese travelers will also have the option to transit through New Zealand using an NZeTA, rather than requiring a transit visa. This change, announced earlier this year, aims to further facilitate travel for Chinese nationals.

Individuals can apply for the NZeTA by downloading the free NZeTA app or through the official Immigration New Zealand website. Adamson noted that those wishing to stay in New Zealand for longer than three months, or who do not possess an eligible Australian visa or are not flying from Australia, will need to apply for a visitor visa.

This new trial reflects New Zealand’s ongoing efforts to enhance its tourism sector and strengthen ties with China, which remains a critical source of visitors and economic activity.