New Zealand eTA for South Korea Citizens
New Zealand is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. The gleaming mountains, secluded islands, rolling countryside, scenic views, and peaceful atmosphere attract people worldwide. The country lies in the southwestern region of the Pacific Ocean. People from every corner of the world come to witness this beauty — including tourists from South Korea.
Since 1 October 2019, South Korean citizens must hold a valid NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before entering New Zealand. The NZeTA is not a traditional visa — it is an electronic travel authorisation linked to your passport. You can apply for a New Zealand NZeTA from South Korea entirely online, and the process takes only a few minutes. Applications are typically processed within 48–72 hours.
How to apply for NZeTA from South Korea
- Apply for NZeTA — Fill in the online application form with your personal and passport details. This takes only a few minutes.
- Secure payment — Payment can be made securely by debit or credit card.
- Receive your NZeTA — Your approved NZeTA is emailed to you within the selected processing timeframe. Keep a printed copy to carry during travel.
Documents required for New Zealand NZeTA from South Korea
The following documents are required when applying for a New Zealand NZeTA for South Korea citizens:
- Passport: A valid South Korean passport is the primary requirement. Your passport must remain valid for at least 6 months from your planned departure from New Zealand.
- Valid Email Address: Mandatory as the NZeTA is sent digitally. Keep a printed copy while travelling.
- Passport-size photograph: A recent passport-size picture is required.
- Digital payment method: A debit card, credit card, or PayPal account for online payment.
- Bank statement: May be required to prove sufficient funds for your trip.
- Return ticket: A return or onward ticket may be requested at the airport. If you do not have one, the equivalent amount should be in your bank account.
Fill in all mandatory details carefully and proofread before submitting. Any discrepancies can result in delays. If you wish to stay in New Zealand for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a long-stay visa through the New Zealand Immigration Service.
NZeTA processing time for South Korea citizens
Three processing options are available for the New Zealand NZeTA for South Korea citizens:
- Normal Processing: 48–72 hours
- Emergency Processing: 24–48 hours
- Rush Processing: 12–24 hours
NZeTA and International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy
Since 1 July 2019, visitors from South Korea must also pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) alongside the NZeTA. This levy contributes to maintaining New Zealand's tourist infrastructure and preserving its natural reserves. You can check the current NZeTA fees and IVL charges on our website.
New Zealand NZeTA validity for South Korea citizens
Your South Korean passport must be valid for at least 6 months upon arrival in New Zealand. The NZeTA is valid for 2 years from the date of issue and allows multiple entries, with each stay not exceeding 90 days. The NZeTA is electronically linked to your passport — no physical stamp or visa sticker is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, South Korean citizens are required to obtain an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before travelling to New Zealand. The NZeTA has been mandatory since 1 October 2019 for all eligible visa-waiver countries, including South Korea. It must be applied for online before departure — it is not available on arrival at the airport.
South Korean citizens can apply for the New Zealand NZeTA entirely online through our website. Fill out the application form with accurate personal and passport details, upload a recent passport-size photograph, and pay the required fee by debit or credit card. The approved NZeTA is sent by email within 48–72 hours. Apply at least 5–6 business days before departure to avoid any delays.
With a valid NZeTA, South Korean citizens can stay in New Zealand for up to 90 days per visit for tourism, business, or family purposes. The NZeTA is valid for 2 years from the date of issue and allows multiple entries during that period, with each stay not exceeding 90 days.
To apply for a New Zealand NZeTA from South Korea, you will need a valid South Korean passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay), a valid email address, a recent passport-size photograph, your arrival and departure dates, and a debit or credit card for payment. A bank statement or return ticket may also be requested to confirm your travel plans and financial means.
NZeTA applications for South Korean citizens are typically processed within 48–72 hours. It is advisable to apply at least 5–6 business days before departure to allow time for any additional document verification. Emergency and rush processing options are available at additional cost.
Yes, South Korean citizens transiting through New Zealand — including through Auckland Airport — are required to have a valid NZeTA. The NZeTA must be obtained online before departure and covers both direct visits and transit connections through New Zealand.
The International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) is a mandatory charge paid alongside the NZeTA application. It is used by the New Zealand government for the development of tourism infrastructure and for protection of the environment. It is paid once and covers the full 2-year NZeTA validity period.