New Zealand Visa RequirementsFor Iceland passport holders
Icelandic passport holders must obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before travel. The NZeTA costs NZD $23 (approximately USD $12) and, combined with the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZD $35, represents a small pre-travel cost. Once obtained, the NZeTA allows multiple-entry visits of up to 90 days per stay and is valid for 2 years.
Iceland passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to New Zealand.
Apply for the NZeTA through the official New Zealand Immigration website or the NZeTA mobile app before travel. You will need your valid Icelandic passport, a credit or debit card to pay NZD $23 for the NZeTA plus NZD $35 for the IVL, and an email address. Upload a selfie photo as part of the application. Most applications are processed within 72 hours, though allow more time before travel. The NZeTA is linked to your passport electronically. Present your passport at New Zealand immigration on arrival.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
For Your Visa Application
IVL Payment Receipt
International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (NZD 35) is paid as part of the NZeTA application.
Valid Icelandic Passport
Passport details are submitted during the NZeTA application. Use the same passport when traveling.
Selfie Photograph
A clear selfie photograph uploaded as part of the NZeTA mobile app or online application.
Credit or Debit Card
Required to pay NZD $23 for the NZeTA and NZD $35 for the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL).
Email Address
An active email address for receiving the NZeTA approval.
Required at Entry
Valid Passport
Must be the same passport linked to your NZeTA. Valid for the duration of your stay.
NZeTA
Electronic Travel Authority linked to your passport. No physical document; checked electronically at check-in and border.
Return or Onward Ticket
Proof of departure from New Zealand within the 90-day period.
NZeTA Approval (electronic)
The NZeTA is linked electronically to your passport. No printout is mandatory but having the approval on your device is recommended.
Valid Icelandic Passport (entry)
Present the same passport used in the NZeTA application at New Zealand border control.
Completed New Zealand Arrival Card
A mandatory declaration card covering health, biosecurity, and customs items. Completed on the plane or available at the airport.
Return or Onward Flight Ticket
New Zealand immigration requires evidence of your departure plans.
Proof of Funds Recommended
Evidence of sufficient funds. NZ$1,000 per month or NZ$400 if prepaid accommodation.
Current Travel Situation
Iceland to New Zealand: What You Need to Know
New Zealand is a long-haul destination for Icelanders but shares some geography similarities: volcanic landscapes, geysers, dramatic fjords (Milford Sound echoes Iceland's own fjords), and a close relationship with the outdoors. Most Icelanders travel via Singapore, Dubai, or Hong Kong to Auckland International Airport, with flight times of 20-24 hours including connections.
Practical Tips
New Zealand uses the New Zealand dollar (NZD). Tipping is not expected but appreciated. New Zealand drives on the left. The country has extremely strict biosecurity: all food items, plant material, and outdoor gear (hiking boots especially) must be declared on arrival. Failure to declare can result in significant fines. Healthcare is of high quality but expensive for tourists; travel insurance is essential. New Zealand is vast relative to its population; renting a campervan is a popular way to explore. The weather changes rapidly, particularly in the South Island.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Icelandic citizens need a visa to visit New Zealand?
Icelandic citizens do not need a visa but must obtain an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before traveling. The NZeTA costs NZD $23 and is applied for online or via the NZeTA app.
What is the NZeTA and how do Icelanders apply for it?
The NZeTA is a mandatory electronic travel authorization for eligible visa-waiver countries including Iceland. Apply at the New Zealand Immigration website or via the NZeTA app. You will need your Icelandic passport, a selfie photo, credit card for NZD $23 (NZeTA fee) plus NZD $35 (International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy), and an email address. Most approvals arrive within 72 hours.
How long can Icelandic citizens stay in New Zealand?
The NZeTA allows stays of up to 3 months (90 days) per visit. The NZeTA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and allows multiple visits.
Why do New Zealand and Iceland share natural parallels?
Both countries are island nations with dramatic volcanic and glacial landscapes. New Zealand's Tongariro Alpine Crossing, geothermal fields in Rotorua, and fiords of Milford Sound mirror Iceland's own dramatic terrain. Many Icelanders feel a geographical kinship with New Zealand despite the vast distance.
What are New Zealand's biosecurity rules?
New Zealand has extremely strict biosecurity requirements, similar to Australia. All food, plant material, animal products, and outdoor gear must be declared. Hiking boots with soil residue are often checked. Bringing undeclared items can result in significant fines. Iceland's outdoor-oriented visitors must clean all gear before traveling.
Does Iceland have a working holiday agreement with New Zealand?
New Zealand offers Working Holiday Visas to citizens of many countries. Icelandic citizens should check with Immigration New Zealand whether Iceland is included in the current list of eligible nationalities for the Working Holiday Visa scheme.
What are the top New Zealand destinations for Icelandic visitors?
Auckland (gateway city), Rotorua (geothermal activity and Maori culture), Queenstown (adventure sports, bungy jumping, skiing), Milford Sound (fjords), and the Abel Tasman National Park are highlights. The South Island is generally considered more dramatic scenically.