Traveling to New Zealand with Children: NZeTA Requirements

Planning a family trip to New Zealand? Understanding NZeTA requirements for children and proper documentation ensures a smooth journey for the whole family. This guide covers everything parents need to know.

Do Children Need an NZeTA?

Yes, all travelers from visa waiver countries need an NZeTA, regardless of age. This includes:

Infants and babies
Toddlers and young children
Teenagers under 18

Each child requires their own individual NZeTA application through the official system.

Applying for Children's NZeTA

Required Information

For each child's application, you'll need:

Child's valid passport (must be valid for 3+ months beyond return date)
Recent passport-style photo of the child
Child's birth certificate (as reference)
Parent or guardian contact information
Travel details including accommodation

Application Process

Parents or legal guardians complete the NZeTA application on behalf of children. The process is the same as adult applications, but requires additional considerations for minors.

Photo Requirements for Children

Children's photos must meet the same standards as adults:

Recent photo (within 6 months)
Plain light-colored background
Clear face visibility (eyes open, neutral expression)
No toys, pacifiers, or other people in the photo

Tip: For infants, lay them on a white sheet and photograph from above. Ensure good lighting and that eyes are open.

Passport Requirements for Children

Children must have their own passport to travel to New Zealand. Parent-listed passports are not accepted. Ensure:

The passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond your departure date
The passport photo is current and resembles the child
All passport information is accurate and legible

Additional Documentation for Minors

When Traveling with Both Parents

No additional documentation beyond NZeTA and passports is typically required.

When Traveling with One Parent

It's recommended to carry:

Consent letter from the non-traveling parent
Copy of the non-traveling parent's ID
Child's birth certificate

When Children Travel with Guardians or Alone

Additional documentation required:

Notarized consent letter from both parents
Copies of parents' identification
Child's birth certificate
Court documents if applicable (custody orders)
Contact information for parents

Costs for Children's Applications

Children pay the same NZeTA fees as adults:

Regular Tourist Processing: $120 USD per child
Express Tourist Processing: $150 USD per child
Regular Transit Processing: $60 USD per child
Express Transit Processing: $90 USD per child

The International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) is included in these fees.

Family Application Tips

Apply Together

You can complete multiple applications for family members. Keep reference numbers organized for each family member.

Use the Same Processing Speed

Apply for all family members with the same processing option to ensure everyone's NZeTA is approved together.

Apply Early

Submit applications at least one week before travel to allow time for any issues or questions.

Save All Confirmations

Keep digital and printed copies of all family members' NZeTA approvals.

At the Airport

Check-in

Airlines will verify that children have valid NZeTAs before issuing boarding passes. Have passports ready for all family members.

Immigration in New Zealand

Children must present their own passports at immigration. Parents can assist young children, but each person needs individual processing.

Customs and Biosecurity

Declare any food, snacks, or toys that might contain plant or animal products. Baby food and formula are allowed but should be declared.

Special Considerations for Families

Infants Under 2

Lap infants still need their own NZeTA and passport, even if they don't have a separate airline seat.

School-Age Children

If traveling during school term, some parents carry a letter from the school confirming the absence is for holiday purposes.

Teenagers

Teenagers under 18 are considered minors and follow the same documentation requirements as younger children.

Common Questions

Can I apply for my child's NZeTA?

Yes, parents or legal guardians complete applications on behalf of minors.

What if my child's passport expires soon?

Renew the passport before applying for an NZeTA. The NZeTA is linked to a specific passport.

Can children use SmartGate at Auckland Airport?

Children under a certain height may need to use regular immigration lines rather than automated SmartGates.

Making Family Travel Smooth

Proper preparation ensures stress-free family travel to New Zealand. Start by applying for everyone's NZeTA through our family-friendly application process. For more information about traveling with children, visit www.nzeta.nz or check our FAQ page.