New Zealand Visa RequirementsFor Portugal passport holders
Portuguese passport holders require the New Zealand NZeTA (electronic travel authorization) before visiting. It is applied for online and costs NZD 23 plus the NZD 35 International Visitor Levy.
Portugal passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to New Zealand.
Apply for the NZeTA at nzeta.immigration.govt.nz or via the official NZeTA smartphone app before your flight. Have ready: valid Portuguese passport, email address, credit or debit card for NZD 23 (NZeTA) plus NZD 35 (IVL, paid together). Most applications are approved within 72 hours; apply at least 72 hours before departure. The NZeTA is electronically linked to your passport. On arrival, complete the New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) digitally via the app or website before landing. New Zealand has strict biosecurity rules: declare all food, plant material, and outdoor equipment.
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
Valid Portuguese Passport
Must be valid for the duration of your stay in New Zealand.
New Zealand NZeTA
Apply at nzeta.immigration.govt.nz or via NZeTA app. Costs NZD 23. Must be obtained before boarding.
International Visitor Levy (IVL)
NZD 35 paid alongside the NZeTA application. Required for most visitors to New Zealand.
Required at Entry
New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD)
Digital arrival declaration completed via app or website before landing in New Zealand.
Return or Onward Ticket
Proof of departure from New Zealand. Required at airline check-in.
Proof of Accommodation Recommended
Hotel or other accommodation details for your stay.
Proof of Sufficient Funds Recommended
NZD 1000 per month of stay or NZD 400 per week is the guideline.
Current Travel Situation
Portugal to New Zealand: What You Need to Know
New Zealand requires all visa-waiver passport holders including Portuguese citizens to obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before boarding a flight or cruise ship to New Zealand. The NZeTA is a straightforward online application costing NZD 23 (approximately USD 12-14) via the NZeTA app or nzeta.immigration.govt.nz. Additionally, most visitors pay a NZD 35 International Visitor Levy (IVL). The NZeTA is valid for multiple trips over 2 years, with each stay up to 90 days. New Zealand is celebrated for dramatic scenery (fiords of Milford Sound, volcanic plateau, snow-capped Southern Alps), adventure tourism (Queenstown bungee jumping, skydiving, skiing), Maori culture, and wine regions (Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, Central Otago Pinot Noir). Flights from Lisbon to Auckland connect through Singapore, Dubai, or Los Angeles; total journey is approximately 26-30 hours.
How to Get There
From Auckland, domestic flights with Air New Zealand and Jetstar connect to Wellington, Christchurch, Queenstown, and other cities. Australia is a 3-hour flight from Auckland or Christchurch. Fiji is a short flight from Auckland. A classic New Zealand circuit combines the North Island (Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington) with the South Island (Christchurch, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Dunedin) and requires at least 3 weeks.
Money & Banking
New Zealand uses the New Zealand dollar (NZD). Cards are accepted virtually everywhere. ATMs available in all towns. New Zealand is moderately expensive: a cafe meal costs NZD 18-30, a restaurant dinner NZD 35-60, hostel beds from NZD 30-45. Freedom camping is popular but regulated; check local rules. Supermarkets (Countdown, New World, Pak n Save) are excellent for self-catering on a budget.
Practical Tips
New Zealand drives on the left. Renting a car is the best way to explore; roads are excellent and scenic. Book accommodation well ahead in peak season (December to February). Queenstown, Milford Sound (arrive early to beat clouds), Franz Josef Glacier, Abel Tasman, Bay of Islands, and Tongariro Alpine Crossing are highlight experiences. Download the MetService app for weather (it changes rapidly in the South Island). Emergency number is 111.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Portuguese citizens need a visa for New Zealand?
Portuguese citizens do not need a traditional visa but must obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before traveling. The NZeTA costs NZD 23 plus a NZD 35 International Visitor Levy and is applied for online.
How much does the New Zealand NZeTA cost for Portuguese citizens?
The NZeTA costs NZD 23 (approximately USD 13-15). Additionally, most visitors must pay the NZD 35 International Visitor Levy (IVL), bringing the total to NZD 58. Both are paid together during the online application.
How do I apply for the New Zealand NZeTA?
Apply at nzeta.immigration.govt.nz or via the official NZeTA mobile app. You will need your Portuguese passport, email address, and a credit or debit card. Most applications are approved within 72 hours. Apply at least 72 hours before departure.
How long can I stay in New Zealand with a NZeTA?
Each visit allows a stay of up to 90 days. The NZeTA itself is valid for 2 years from the date of grant (or until passport expiry, whichever is earlier), allowing multiple visits within that period.
What is the International Visitor Levy and why do I need to pay it?
The International Visitor Levy (IVL) is NZD 35 per person, collected to fund conservation, tourism infrastructure, and visitor services in New Zealand. It applies to most international visitors and is paid together with the NZeTA application fee.
What are New Zealand biosecurity rules I should know about?
New Zealand has strict biosecurity to protect its unique ecosystems. Complete the New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) before arrival. Declare all food, plant material, soil, and outdoor equipment. Undeclared items can result in fines or prosecution.
Can I drive in New Zealand with a Portuguese driving license?
Yes. Portuguese citizens can drive in New Zealand for up to 12 months using their valid Portuguese driving license together with an official translation or International Driving Permit. New Zealand drives on the left.