The New Zealand Traveller Declaration is an electronic Arrival Card that replaces the paper Passenger Arrival Card required for entry to Aotearoa (New Zealand).
This declaration collects key details about travellers, such as contact information, passport data, and flight details.
The online declaration plays a crucial role in supporting New Zealand's border control measures. By accurately completing the form, travellers contribute to the country's efforts in managing border security.
Below, we’ll go into more detail about the electronic Traveller Declaration system, including who can use it, and how to complete it.
Who needs a New Zealand Traveller Declaration?
It's mandatory for all individuals entering Aotearoa by air or sea to complete either a paper Arrival Card or a digital Traveller Declaration. The online declaration is the most convenient option, as it’s completely digital and can be done in advance of travel.
This requirement applies to both New Zealand citizens and foreign visitors. Here are some key details:
- New Zealand citizens and residents returning home still need to complete the declaration, but will be exempt from some of the questions
- A separate declaration needs to be submitted for every individual passenger, including children and babies (even if included on the parents’ passport)
- You can assist those having trouble completing the digital declaration by selecting the feature start a declaration for someone else
- Passengers and crew arriving by sea can must complete a digital Traveller Declaration as a February 2024
- Passengers in transit through New Zealand are recommended to complete the Traveller Declaration, although it is not mandatory when only changing flight.
It's important to note that all travellers must ensure they meet the visa requirements for New Zealand, and fulfil any obligatory visa or permit obligations. The New Zealand Traveller Declaration is an additional step aimed at facilitating a smooth and safe entry into the country.
How to complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration
Completing the New Zealand Traveller Declaration is a straightforward process that can be done entirely online in just a few steps:
- Access the New Zealand Traveller Declaration online form
- Provide accurate personal information, passport details, and contact information
- Supply travel details such as date of arrival in New Zealand, flight number, and a list of countries you have visited in the past 14 days
- Agree to the statements presented in the declaration and provide your signature
- Review the information carefully
- Submit the declaration electronically
Once submitted, you'll receive a confirmation receipt or reference number via email. It's advisable to keep a copy of this for future reference.
Providing false or misleading information on the New Zealand Traveller Declaration may result in penalties or even denial of entry into the country. Therefore, it's crucial to be honest and thorough when completing the declaration.
Please note that dual citizens entering New Zealand should fill out the passport details of the same document they are using to enter New Zealand on the form.
Australia, Canada, UK, and US embassy registration in NZ
If you’re a citizen of Australia, Canada, the UK, or the US and you apply for your NZ declaration through this page, you can also take advantage of embassy registration.
Choosing the embassy registration option allows you to register your trip to New Zealand with your country’s embassy. This gives greater peace of mind when travelling.
When do I need to submit a NZ Traveller Declaration?
The New Zealand Traveller Declaration must be submitted before you pass through passport control in Aotearoa.
We strongly recommended you complete the declaration as early.
For last-minute applications, apply using the Priority service to receive your approved declaration in 1 hour.
Can I change information on a Traveller Declaration for New Zealand?
If you need to change any information on your Traveller Declaration for New Zealand, please get in touch using our contact form.
For example, if the details of your flight or ship crossing change, you must update your declaration. Fill out the contact form with your details and the amendments you need to make. A member of the nzetapermit.com team will be in touch to assist.
Arriving in New Zealand with the Traveller Declaration
You should keep the following in mind when you arrive in New Zealand with an approved digital declaration:
- There’s no need to print anything or deal with QR codes; your declaration is automatically linked to your passport upon submission
- The confirmation email you receive will provide details about the border process based on the information you have provided in your declaration
- Proceed through passport control as usual and utilize the eGates
- At the Biosecurity checkpoint, instead of presenting a passenger arrival card, provide your passport for scanning. The scanned information from your declaration will be retrieved, and you will be directed to the appropriate biosecurity lane
Please remember that a digital Traveller Declaration does not replace a visa or travel authority for New Zealand.
To successfully pass through customs in Aotearoa, you may also be required to obtain a visa or submit a New Zealand eTA application online in advance of your departure.
