Do Spanish citizens need an NZeTA?
Yes. Spain is one of New Zealand's visa-waiver countries, so you don't need to apply for a visitor visa at an embassy. Since October 2019, however, every Spanish traveller must hold an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before travelling to New Zealand by air or cruise ship.
Your airline checks your NZeTA when you check in. That matters for travellers from Spain because there are no direct flights: you will usually connect in Doha, Dubai, Singapore or another hub, and you can be refused boarding on the connecting flight without an approved NZeTA.
Spanish residents with another nationality: the rules depend on the passport you travel on, not where you live. If you hold a passport from a country that is not on the visa-waiver list, check the page for that country or contact us.
What you can do with an NZeTA from Spain
An NZeTA allows Spanish citizens to:
- Travel for tourism, such as touring the North and South Islands, hiking, or visiting national parks
- Visit family and friends who live in New Zealand
- Attend business meetings, conferences or trade events, without working for a New Zealand company
- Study a short course that lasts up to 3 months
- Transit through Auckland International Airport on the way to another country
You can't use an NZeTA to work, to stay for more than 90 days per visit, or to get medical treatment. If you are aged 18 to 30 and want to travel and work, look at the Spain Working Holiday Visa instead.
Documents and photo you need
| Spanish passport | Valid for at least 3 months after the date you plan to leave New Zealand. Your DNI is not accepted. |
|---|---|
| Photo | A recent colour photo of your face against a plain, light background. You can take it with your phone. |
| Email address | We send updates and your NZeTA decision to this address. |
| Payment card | A Visa, Mastercard or American Express card. Most Spanish bank cards work. |
Enter your name exactly as it appears in the passport's machine-readable zone. Spanish passports often include two surnames. Include both surnames in the family name field so that your NZeTA matches your passport.
How to apply for an NZeTA from Spain
Start the online form
Enter your contact details, choose a processing speed and select "Visit" as your type of travel.
Add each traveller's passport details
Copy the details carefully from each passport, including both surnames and the full passport number.
Answer the health and character questions
These are short yes or no questions. Answer honestly, because incorrect answers can lead to a declined NZeTA.
Upload photos and pay
Upload a photo for each traveller, review your application and pay by card. Your fee includes the IVL tourism levy.
Processing times for Spanish applicants
Spanish applications are usually processed quickly, but allow up to 72 hours. When you apply, you can choose one of three speeds:
| Option | Typical time | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | 48–72 hours | Trips booked more than a week ahead |
| Emergency | 24–48 hours | Departing within a few days |
| Rush | 12–24 hours | Last-minute departures |
See the NZeTA fees page for current prices.
Arriving in New Zealand from Spain
An approved NZeTA lets you travel, but a border officer makes the final decision when you arrive. Be ready to show:
- The same Spanish passport you used for your NZeTA
- A return or onward ticket
- Proof that you can pay for your stay, such as a bank card or bank statement
- Your completed New Zealand Traveller Declaration
Biosecurity rules are strict. Declare food such as jamón, chorizo, cheese, fruit and seeds when you arrive. Undeclared items can lead to an on-the-spot fine.
Frequently asked questions from Spanish travellers
No. Spain is a visa-waiver country, so Spanish citizens don't need a visa for tourism or short business trips of up to 90 days. However, you must have an approved NZeTA before you board your flight or cruise.
No. The DNI is accepted for travel within Europe, but not for New Zealand. You need a valid Spanish passport, and you must use the same passport for your NZeTA application and your journey.
Each visit can last up to 90 days. Your NZeTA is valid for up to 2 years, so you can make several trips during that time as long as you follow the visitor rules.
No. To work in New Zealand, Spanish citizens need a work visa. Spanish citizens aged 18 to 30 may be eligible for the Spain Working Holiday Visa, which is a separate application.
Apply at least 72 hours before your first flight, and earlier if you can. Flights from Spain usually connect through the Middle East or Asia, and you won't be allowed to board the final flight to New Zealand without an NZeTA.
Yes. Every traveller needs their own NZeTA, including babies. You can add all family members to one application on our website.