The New Zealand Government has just announced the introduction of the ELECTRONIC TRAVEL AUTHORITY ( ETA) to be become effective from 1 July 2019.
- This is a new security and facilitation measure designed to enhance security and reduce immigration risks.
- It will also support New Zealands international relationships and agreements and address smuggling and bio security risks.
WHEN DOES IT COME INTO EFFECT ?
From 1 July 2019 travellers will be able to request an ETA and it will become mandatory from 1 October 2019 onwards.
WHO NEEDS AN ETA
All travellers from Visa Waiver countries will need to hold an ETA before travelling to New Zealand.
Passengers from a VISA Waiver country or transit Visa waiver country who are transiting through New Zealand are also required to hold an ETA from 1 October 2019, even if New Zealand is not their final destination.
HOW WILL IT AFFECT PRIVATE & CORPORATE JET CREWS
Currently non cruise liner vessels crew are exempt the ETA .
NZ Immigration Service have advised us today that private jet crews will also be exempt and not require a CREW ETA.
However passengers arriving on a private jet from a VIsa Waiver country will require an ETA prior to arrival.
All airline crew and cruise liner crew will need to hold a CREW ETA before travelling to New Zealand.
A CREW ETA will last for up to 5 years and costs NZ$9.00.
HOW TO APPLY FOR AN ETA
We are awaiting advice from Immigration NZ as to the procedure for obtaining an ETA and will advice once we have heard more information.
