Visa — NZeTA
Germans, Austrians, and Swiss do not need a traditional visa for New Zealand, but since 2019 they require a NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) and the IVL (International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy).
NZeTA + IVL
- NZeTA: Apply online via the official NZeTA app or the Immigration New Zealand website. Cost: 17 NZD (app) or 23 NZD (website). Approval usually within 72 hours, often faster. Valid for 2 years, multiple entries, maximum 90 days per stay.
- IVL: Additional levy of 35 NZD for conservation and tourism infrastructure. Paid together with the NZeTA.
- Total: 52 NZD (app) or 58 NZD (website) — one-time for 2 years.
Working Holiday Visa
For 18–30-year-olds (Germans up to 30, some nationalities up to 35): 12 months stay and work permit. Cost: 455 NZD. New Zealand is, alongside Australia, the most popular work & travel destination — farm work (shearing sheep, picking fruit, especially kiwifruit in the Bay of Plenty), hostel jobs, and tourism work are easy to find. Quota: unlimited for Germans, but apply online (Processing: 2–4 weeks).
Important
- Apply for NZeTA at least 72 hours before departure — the app is the fastest way.
- Passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the planned stay.
- Return or onward flight ticket may be required upon entry.
- Since 2025, biometric data (fingerprints, photo) are collected upon entry.
Achtung
New Zealand has the STRICTEST biosecurity controls in the world. NO fresh food, fruit, honey, meat products, plants, soil, wood, or dirty outdoor equipment (hiking boots!) allowed. DECLARE EVERYTHING — really EVERYTHING. The penalties are draconian (up to 100,000 NZD) and the sniffer dogs at the airport find every forgotten banana. Your hiking boots must be CLEAN — dirt from other countries is an import violation. The TV series "Border Security" shows how seriously New Zealand takes this — customs officers are friendly but relentless.
