U.S. citizens traveling to or transiting through New Zealand under the visa waiver program are required to have an NZeTA. This is also true for cruise ship passengers. It can take up to 72 hours to process an NZeTA so apply well in advance of your trip. The NZeTA is valid for multiple visits for up to two years.

Whether you need a visa for a 2-week trip to New Zealand depends on your nationality. For citizens of "Visa Waiver" countries—which include the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and most EU nations—you do not need a traditional visa. Instead, you must apply for an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before you depart. The NZeTA is processed online, usually takes up to 72 hours, and is valid for multiple visits over two years. Additionally, most visitors must pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) at the same time. However, if you are from a non-waiver country (such as India or China), you must apply for a standard Visitor Visa well in advance, a process that typically requires about 4 weeks for approval. In 2026, all travelers must also possess a passport valid for at least three months beyond their departure date and have proof of a return or onward ticket. It is essential to check the latest requirements via the official Immigration New Zealand website before booking.