NZ eTA for Citizens of Indonesia: What You Need to Know

Travelling to the land of kiwi birds, snow‑dusted mountains and serene fjords? If you’re a citizen of Indonesia, you’re likely wondering: Do I need an eTA for New Zealand? How do I apply? What’s the process like? Let’s dive in.

Do Indonesian citizens need an NZ eTA to travel to New Zealand?

Short answer: Not always. It depends on your travel purpose, the route, and the type of entry (visitor vs transit).

Here’s the breakdown:

• The official site for the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) states that “some people can use an NZeTA to travel to New Zealand without applying for a visa first … this depends on your passport, how you are travelling and if you are visiting or only transiting.”
• The list of visa‑waiver countries (those who can use an NZeTA instead of a visitor visa) does not include Indonesia.
• Some sources indicate that Indonesian passport holders may apply for an eTA only under “transit” or very limited circumstances. For example, one listing shows Indonesia under “transit visa waiver countries” for the NZeTA scheme.
• In plain language: if you are planning to visit New Zealand for a short‑stay visitor, you are likely not eligible for the NZeTA (electronic travel authority) and you will need to apply for a visitor visa instead.
• However, if you’re merely transiting through New Zealand (especially via Auckland International Airport) or arriving by cruise ship, the rules may differ and the eTA (or crew ETA) might apply.

In summary, For most Indonesian citizens planning a standard tourist trip to New Zealand, the New Zealand eTA for Citizens of Indonesia usually doesn’t apply; they must instead apply for the regular visitor visa. However, always check the latest updates on the official online portal, as immigration regulations can change.

How do I apply for the NZ eTA online (for Indonesian passport holders)?

Since most Indonesian citizens will not qualify for the standard NZeTA for tourism, you’ll likely follow the visitor visa process rather than the “apply for New Zealand eTA” path. But if you find yourself in a special scenario (e.g., transit or cruise ship) where the eTA might apply, here is the typical online process (and you can check if you qualify under that category):

1. Check eligibility
2. Use the online portal or eligibility checker to see whether your passport and travel purpose allow an NZeTA.
3. If you discover you’re not eligible, proceed with the standard visitor visa instead.
4. Gather your documents
5. You’ll need your valid Indonesian passport, passport‑photo style image, travel details (flight in/out), proof of funds and accommodation. The official site lists these as necessary for NZeTA.
6. Complete the online application
7. For those eligible: use the NZeTA website or the official mobile app. Fill in personal details exactly as per your passport, upload the photo, and pay the fee.
8. Pay the processing fee + IVL (International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy)
9. When applying for an NZeTA, travellers from visa‑waiver countries are required to pay both the NZeTA fee and the IVL.
10. Wait for approval
11. Most applications are processed within up to 72 hours (3 days). Many are done sooner, but it’s safer to apply well before travel.
12. Check your status and travel
13. Once approved, you’ll receive a confirmation email. Bring your passport, the confirmation, and proof of onward travel when you check‑in. At arrival in New Zealand you may be asked for evidence of funds, onward ticket, etc.

Important for Indonesian citizens: since you’re likely not eligible for the NZeTA, the actual steps for the visitor visa will be different (a separate visa application, possibly interviews, more documents, and possibly longer processing). I strongly advise checking the official site of Immigration New Zealand for “Visitor Visa – from Indonesia” or contacting the New Zealand diplomatic mission in Indonesia for precise instructions.

Which nationalities / which countries are eligible for the NZ eTA?

Good question — and it matters a lot. Here’s a summary of who can use the NZeTA and who can’t:

• The “Visa waiver countries and territories” list shows passport holders who do not require a standard visitor visa but do require an NZeTA (if visiting or transiting) for short stays (up to 3 months typically).
• Countries included in that list include: Andorra, Argentina, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia (citizens only), Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong (HKSAR/BN(O) only), Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Kuwait, Latvia (citizens only), Liechtenstein, Lithuania (citizens only), Luxembourg, Macau (Special Admin Region passport), Malaysia, Malta, Mauritius, Mexico, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Oman, Poland, Portugal (if you have right to reside permanently), Qatar, Romania, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan (if permanent resident), United Kingdom (citizens & those with right to live permanently), United States, Uruguay, Vatican City.
• Note: Indonesian passport does not appear on that list of 60 or so “visa waiver” countries for the standard NZeTA tourism/visitor purpose.
• There is also a separate category of “transit visa waiver countries” where some nationals may transit via New Zealand and only need an NZeTA (or transit ETA) rather than a full visitor visa if they remain air‑side and don’t “enter” the country in the usual way. In some compilations, Indonesia is listed in the transit category.
• Additionally, crew members (airline, ship, cargo) have their own “Crew ETA” system.

So, simply put, if you hold an Indonesian passport and you’re travelling to New Zealand for tourism or holiday as a visitor, you are not likely to be covered under the standard NZeTA scheme; you will need to apply for a visa unless things change. Always check the official immigration website for updates.

What documents do I need to submit when applying for the NZ eTA?

If you are eligible for the NZeTA (or if you are applying for the visitor visa instead – many of the documents overlap), here are the typical required documents:

For NZeTA:

• A valid travel document (passport): the passport you will travel on must be valid and the details must match exactly the data you enter in the application.
• A photo or device that can take a photo: usually a recent passport‑style photo.
• Proof of onward travel: you must have a ticket out of New Zealand (or a cruise itinerary) showing you intend to leave at the end of your stay.
• Proof you have enough money to support yourself during your stay: the official site says you need to show at check‑in or arrival that you have living expenses covered.
• You must meet character and health requirements: e.g., you must not have criminal convictions that prevent entry, and some health requirements may apply. 

For Indonesian nationals applying for a regular Visitor Visa (because NZeTA is not applicable):

• Valid Indonesian passport
• Completed visa application form (online or paper)
• Recent photograph(s)
• Travel itinerary including flights in and out, accommodation bookings
• Proof of funds (bank statements)
• Proof of onward travel/exit from New Zealand
• Possibly travel history, proof of ties to home country (to show you’ll leave), sometimes character and health documents
• Sometimes additional documents depending on your case (e.g., previous visa history, purpose of stay, etc.)

Tip: Ensure your passport has at least 3 months validity beyond your intended departure date from New Zealand (for NZeTA travellers) — the official site lists this as a requirement.

What is the processing time for the NZ eTA once submitted?

Good question! Many travellers ask how soon they can apply and how quickly it will come through. For the NZeTA:

• The official site says: “We usually process NZeTA requests within 72 hours.”
• Some sources claim many are approved much faster (minutes to a few hours), but 72 hours is the safe maximum.
• If you are applying through a third‑party “fast‑track” provider (not the official site) you might pay extra for what they call “rush processing” (6–12 hours) or even “super rush” (1 hour) though this is not always official and may carry higher cost.

For Indonesian travellers under the visitor visa route (since NZeTA doesn’t apply): visa processing times may be longer, depending on workload, document completeness, extra checks, etc. Always allow extra buffer time before your travel date.

How long is the NZ eTA valid after approval?

Once approved, the NZeTA (for those eligible) has these key features:

• Valid for multiple visits to New Zealand for up to 2 years (for most travellers) from the date of issue.
• Visit duration: for most holders, each visit is limited to up to 3 months (within any 12‑month period) unless you’re a UK citizen, then up to 6 months per visit.
• The validity ends earlier if your passport expires, or if you change name, gender, nationality, etc.

For example: you get your NZeTA today; for the next 2 years you can travel multiple times to NZ, each time staying up to 3 months (if you’re from a standard‑eligible country) so long as you don’t exceed the 12‑month backward count rule (i.e., you cannot stay more than 6 months in any rolling 12‑month period if you’re a non‑UK visitor). 

Since Indonesian citizens likely will not use NZeTA (for tourism) but a visitor visa instead, the validity and stay durations will be governed by the visa granted (which is typically a visitor visa for up to 3 months or as specified).

What is the fastest way to get an NZ eTA?

If you are eligible for the NZeTA, here are tips to get it approved as quickly as possible:

1. Apply as early as possible – don’t wait until the last minute. Although some approvals are near‑instant, some take up to 72 hours.
2. “Applied through the App… wife and kids got their approval instantaneously… mine went into pending status … start to finish, the approval happened within 22 hours.”
3. Ensure all information matches your passport exactly – any mismatch (e.g., spelling, passport number, nationality) can trigger manual checks and slow things down.
4. Use a high‑quality photo, and ensure the passport scan is clear. One traveller said:
5. “The photos for all of them except me were taken in a different place than where I took mine. My passport was renewed recently… This may have triggered a secondary verification.”
6. If you are applying via a “fast‑track” third‑party service (not the official government site) you might pay more, but you should be aware of risk of inflated fees or scams.
7. Provide your onward flight ticket, accommodation booking, proof of funds etc early to reduce risk of additional checks.

Why is an NZ eTA rejected?

Even when you are eligible for the NZeTA, there are reasons why your application may be NZ ETA Rejected or flagged for further manual review. Some common reasons:

• You provided incorrect or inconsistent information (e.g., passport number wrong, spelling mistakes).
• Your passport is close to expiry, or expires within 3 months of your intended departure from NZ. The official site warns this could block you.
• You don’t have proof of onward travel or sufficient funds (e.g., cannot show you will leave NZ).
• You don’t meet character or health requirements (e.g., previous criminal convictions, undeclared serious medical condition).
• You’re not actually eligible for the NZeTA because your nationality is not in the visa waiver list: for example, Indonesian tourist travel to NZ doesn’t fall under standard NZeTA eligibility. If you apply anyway, the system may reject you or it may be flagged.
• Your travel purpose doesn’t qualify for the NZeTA (for instance, you intend to work, study, or stay longer than allowed under NZeTA). The NZeTA is for short‑visit type purposes only.

If your application is rejected, you will be advised to apply for a visitor visa instead (if you still intend to travel). You must apply for the correct category.

Can I get an NZ eTA at the airport?

In general, No, you cannot rely on obtaining an NZeTA at the airport if you are flying in as a tourist. Key points:

• The official page states: “If you do not meet our requirements or you want to stay longer, you should apply for a visitor visa and have it before you travel.”
• If you board a flight without an approved NZeTA (and you require it), you may be denied boarding by the airline. One traveller noted:
• “We were informed at check‑in that our passports does not have the approval linked … we had to fill in another form a little panicked.”
• For transit, some airports allow certain “transit‑only” travellers to use a transit ETA or similar, but that’s a very specific scenario (passing through NZ without entering, staying in airside zone).
• Always best practice: apply before you travel and have the email confirmation or reference number with you.

Travel Tips

Here are my practical tips (from the perspective of a traveller) to make your trip to New Zealand smooth if you’re coming from Indonesia:

• Start early: Even if you’re confident, give yourself at least a week (preferably two) before departure to get your visa/NZeTA sorted.
• Passport validity: Ensure your Indonesian passport is valid for at least 3 months after your intended departure date from NZ. Some sources say longer for visas.
• Match details: Enter your name, passport number, nationality exactly as in your passport. Minor mismatches cause delays.
• Keep proof of funds and accommodation: Be ready to show a bank statement, hotel bookings, flight tickets.
• Onward travel ticket: The officials may ask for your return or onward flight ticket. Poor documentation may delay or complicate your entry.
• Multiple entries: If you happen to get an NZeTA (in eligible case), you can travel multiple times during its validity — nice flexibility.
• Stay within rules: With NZeTA you’re usually limited to up to 3 months per visit (unless you’re a UK citizen). Overstaying or travelling on non‑allowed purposes (e.g., employment) may hamper future access.
• Use the official website/app: Avoid third‑party sites with inflated fees or extra “services.” Several travellers warn of scams.
• Keep digital and physical copies: Keep the email confirmation of your approval, and screenshot it. Also have digital photo of your passport and documents.
• Check arrival/immigration rules: On arrival you may need to fill the New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) online within 24 hr of your flight.
• Be prepared for border checks: Immigration may ask questions: purpose of visit, where you’ll stay, how you’ll pay, when you’ll leave. Be honest and clear.
• Respect tourism levies: If you use the NZeTA route, you’ll likely pay the IVL (International Visitor Conservation & Tourism Levy) which helps fund NZ’s tourist infrastructure.
• Travel insurance: Not mandatory for entry, but strongly recommended — medical costs and evacuation in NZ can be high.
• Enjoy the journey: NZ has some of the most stunning landscapes, friendly people, clean air — come with an open mind and sense of adventure.
• 

New Zealand eTA FAQs

Q: I hold an Indonesian passport. Can I stay in NZ for 6 months with an eTA?

A: No — if you are eligible for the NZeTA (and you're from a visa‑waiver country) then for most nationals each stay is up to 3 months. Only UK citizens get up to 6 months per visit.

Since you as an Indonesian traveller will likely apply for a visitor visa instead of NZeTA, your stay period will depend on the visa granted — typically up to 3 months.

Q: Can I apply for the NZeTA at the airport if I forgot before I left Indonesia?

A: You risk being denied boarding or entry. Airlines check before boarding, so you should apply and get confirmation before travelling.

Q: How much does the NZeTA cost?

A: Fees vary (official government fee + tourist levy). It’s best to check the official site for the latest fee in NZD. Third‑party “fast‑track” services may charge much more.

Q: What if my NZeTA gets rejected?

A: If you’re eligible but your application is rejected, you can apply for a visitor visa instead (if appropriate). If you're not eligible for NZeTA (e.g., Indonesian passport for tourism), you should directly apply for a visitor visa.

Q: How many times can I enter New Zealand with one NZeTA?

A: If you have an NZeTA it is valid for multiple visits (within its 2‑year validity for most travellers). Each visit must still follow the stay‑limits and you must meet all other requirements.

Q: I’m transiting through New Zealand on the way to Australia. Do I need anything?

A: Possibly. If you remain air‑side at Auckland and your passport is from a “transit visa waiver” country, you may need a Transit ETA or NZeTA. For Indonesian citizens this is a more complex scenario — check with the airline and NZ immigration. Some sources list Indonesia under transit waiver category.

Q: My passport was renewed recently. Can I apply for an NZeTA under my old passport number?

A: No — your application must use the passport you will travel with. If you change passports, you should apply again with the new details. Mismatches often lead to delays or denials.