New Zealand strengthens border security with new travel requirements

New Zealand has announced new travel requirements to better screen those visiting the country.

NZ’s immigration bureau will implement a new tourism entry approval process that involves an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) form as well as a new tax named the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL).

According to the New Zealand Immigration website, ETA aims to “improve the way travellers are assessed before they arrive in New Zealand.” The new regulation also aims to hasten border clearance and strengthen border security.

Meanwhile, the IVL is “a way for travellers to contribute directly to the tourism infrastructure they use and to help protect and enhance the natural environment they will enjoy during their stay in New Zealand,” according to the website.

The following types of visitors must now request an ETA before traveling to New Zealand:

• Those visiting or in transit from a visa waiver country — that is, a country whose passport holders do not need to get a visa before they arrive in New Zealand
• If you’re traveling on a passport from a visa waiver country or a transit visa waiver country and you will be in transit through Auckland International Airport
• Cruise ship passengers, regardless of your nationality
• Permanent residents of Australia

However, there are people that no longer need to apply for this type of visa, which are:

• Travellers who already hold a valid New Zealand visa
• Those who are New Zealand citizens traveling on a New Zealand passport, or a foreign passport with an endorsement — for example, to say you are a permanent resident or citizen of New Zealand
• Australian citizens traveling on an Australian passport.

This new requirements take effect on October 1. The government recommends requesting an ETA well in advance of a trip to New Zealand, as it can take up to 72 hours to approve applications.