To avoid overstaying a New Zealand eTA, visitors must be aware of the following information:
- The NZeTA expiry date
- The maximum length of stay per entry
- The passport expiry date
The importance of each of these points is explained in this article. We also explain the consequences of overstaying the travel permit.
In certain circumstances, it may be possible to stay in New Zealand for longer than 90 days. The process for requesting an extension is also outlined below.
When does my NZeTA expire?
The NZeTA is valid for 2 years from the date of issue, or until the holder’s passport expires.
During the 24-month validity period, eTA holders may enter New Zealand multiple times for the purposes of tourism, business, or transit.
Once the NZeTA expiration date is reached the permit is automatically invalidated.
A new eTA is required to travel to New Zealand from this point onwards.
How can I check when my NZeTA expires?
The NZeTA expiry date appears on the approved permit . Travellers can see the date their eTA expires on the email they are sent on approval of the travel permit.
Foreigners with an existing permit should check the status of the NZeTA in advance to avoid disrupted travel plans.
How long can I stay in New Zealand with an NZeTA?
By applying for the NZeTA, eligible foreign citizens can stay in New Zealand for up to 3 months . Citizens of the United Kingdom can remain for up to 6 months.
The date of arrival is the first day of the stay. The visitor must depart New Zealand within 3 (or 6) months of the arrival date. Overstayers are identified when their passport is scanned on departure.
If you plan to stay in New Zealand for longer than the time permitted with an NZeTA, you should apply for a different type of New Zealand visa.
My passport has expired, is the NZeTA still valid?
The NZeTA is only valid with the passport used to apply . As soon as the passport expires, the NZeTA becomes invalid and can no longer be used to travel to New Zealand.
Foreigners need to submit a new NZeTA application using their new passport in order to be granted entry.
As passports must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the end of the stay, you should not travel to New Zealand with a passport that’s about to expire.
Overstaying New Zealand eTA visa waiver penalties
You must not stay longer than the time allowed with your travel authority. The main consequences of overstaying an eTA for New Zealand are being:
- Banned from returning to New Zealand in the future
- Detained or deported
The longer the overstay, the more likely it is that an individual will be denied entry to New Zealand on future occasions.
Family members or other people who assist an over stayer are committing an offence. As a resul, they also face having their own immigration status reviewed.
Steps to take if you have overstayed your eTA
Visitors who have already overstayed their eTA have 2 options:
- Leave New Zealand immediately
- Request a special temporary or resident visa, available in exceptional circumstances only
How to request a special temporary or resident visa
An overstayed New Zealand visa or NZeTA is unlikely to be renewed apart from in very special circumstances. Normally, visitors need to depart the country and apply for a new permit.
Foreigners who are unable to leave New Zealand can make a written request to stay longer under section 61 of the New Zealand Immigration Act.
The request should be sent by post to:
Immigration New Zealand
PO Box 76895
Manukau City
Auckland 2241
New Zealand
Send a written visa extension request to New Zealand Immigration
The applicant should explain their circumstances in as much detail as possible to be considered for an extension. They should provide:
- Personal details and contact information
- Immigration New Zealand client number
- An explanation for the New Zealand visa overstay
- Reasons for not returning to their home country to apply for a new eTA
- Reasons to support a further stay in New Zealand, such as work or family obligations
- Information about how the applicant can contribute to the country, especially if they wish to stay in New Zealand long-term
Extension approval or denial
All visa expansion requests are handled by a senior immigration officer at the INZ Manukau Area Office .
They are under no obligation to consider the request nor provide reasons for their decision to approve or deny the extension.
The 2 possible outcomes are:
- Denied: leave New Zealand immediately
- Approved: pay the relevant fee and receive the visa
If you believe you may be eligible for an extension, we advise you to contact their nearest embassy or consulate before their existing permit expires.
Can I renew an overstayed NZeTA online?
It is not possible to renew an overstayed NZeTA or visitor visa online. However a written request for an extension can be sent by email.
Foreigners who have departed New Zealand can apply for a new NZeTA following the same online application process.
