New Zealand entry requirements for Hungary passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed August 5, 2026·View sources
eVisa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Hungarian passport holders need a visa to visit New Zealand in 2026. You must apply for a Visitor Visa (or a Transit Visa if just passing through) before you travel. Processing can take several weeks, so plan ahead.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority)You need this electronic travel authority before you travel – it's not a visa but a mandatory pre-travel authorization. Visa waiver entry | Hungarian citizens must obtain an NZeTA before boarding a flight to New Zealand. Apply online or via the mobile app. The NZeTA is valid for up to 2 years for multiple entries. | Required |
| Passport validityCheck your passport expiry – if it's too close, renew it before you go. At least 6 months | Your Hungarian passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from New Zealand. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesMake sure you have a free page – not just the endorsement pages. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least one blank page for entry stamps. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketIt's not always checked, but having a ticket avoids problems at the border. May be requested | Immigration may ask for proof of a return or onward ticket. Have your travel itinerary ready. | Recommended |
| Proof of sufficient fundsCarry proof that you can support yourself during your visit. May be requested | Be prepared to show evidence of sufficient funds for your stay (e.g., bank statements, credit cards). The exact amount is not fixed but should cover your expenses. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou don't need a separate form – just the online declaration before you fly. Not required | No separate arrival declaration is required for New Zealand. You will complete the New Zealand Traveller Declaration online within 24 hours before departure. | Not required |
Apply early — no visa on arrival
New Zealand does not offer visas on arrival for Hungarian passport holders. You must have an approved Visitor Visa before you board your flight. Processing can take 20–30 days, so apply at least 6 weeks ahead.
Biosecurity is strict
New Zealand has some of the world's strictest biosecurity laws. Declare any food, plants, animal products, camping gear, or sports equipment. Fines for undeclared items start at NZD 400.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for a Visitor Visa online
Go to the Immigration New Zealand website, create an account, fill out the form, upload documents (passport scan, photo, travel itinerary, proof of funds), and pay the fee. Processing takes 20–30 days typically.
2
Wait for visa decision
You'll receive an email with the outcome. If approved, the visa is linked electronically to your passport. Print the approval letter and keep it with your travel documents.
3
Arrive at Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch airport
Join the 'Visitors' queue at immigration. Have your passport, visa approval letter, return ticket, and proof of accommodation ready. The officer may ask about your plans and funds.
4
Collect your luggage and pass through customs
New Zealand has strict biosecurity. Declare any food, outdoor gear, or animal products. Failure to declare can result in a fine starting at NZD 400.
Download New Zealand Entry Checklist
PDF · Hungary Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 5, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Business Visitor Visa
Max stayUp to 6 months
ValidityTypically single or multiple entry, up to 3 years
CostNZD 341 (online)
For business meetings, conferences, or negotiations. Must not work for a New Zealand employer.
Work Visa (e.g., Essential Skills)
Max stayUp to 5 years (depending on job offer)
ValidityVaries by visa category
CostFrom NZD 540
Requires a job offer from a New Zealand employer and may require a labour market test.
Student Visa
Max stayDuration of course (up to 4 years)
ValidityTypically for the length of study
CostFrom NZD 375
Requires acceptance into an approved educational institution.
work visa
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
Indefinite (permanent residency)
NZD 4,290 (~$2,640 USD)
For skilled workers with a job offer in an occupation on the skill shortage list. Requires points test and health/character checks.
Apply student visa
Student Visa
Up to 4 years (course duration)
NZD 330 (~$203 USD)
For full-time study at a New Zealand institution. Allows part-time work during studies.
Apply investor visa
Investor 2 Visa
4 years, leading to permanent residency
NZD 4,290 (~$2,640 USD)
For investors with NZD 3 million to invest in New Zealand over 4 years. Requires business experience and English proficiency.
Apply Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visitor Visa (standard online application)Includes International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL). | NZD 341 |
| Visitor Visa (paper application)Higher fee if applying by paper. | NZD 430 |
| Transit VisaFor passing through New Zealand en route to another country. | NZD 211 |
| International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)Included in the online Visitor Visa fee; paid separately if visa waiver applies (not applicable for Hungarian passport holders). | NZD 100 |
| Visa extension (Visitor Visa)Possible to apply for an extension while in New Zealand, subject to conditions. | NZD 211 |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete application20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through New Zealand
Transit visa required
Hungarian passport holders require a Transit Visa to pass through New Zealand, even if staying airside and not clearing customs.
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of a valid New Zealand visa or a visa waiver country passport may not need a Transit Visa, but Hungarian passport holders are not visa waiver eligible.
Transit hubsAuckland Airport (AKL) · Wellington Airport (WLG) · Christchurch Airport (CHC)
Health & vaccines for New Zealand
Recommended vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, etc.)EssentialHepatitis ARecommendedTyphoidConsiderInfluenzaRecommended
Health risks
Mosquito-borne diseases (e.g., Ross River virus)Low risk
Rare but present in some rural areas; use insect repellent.
Food and water safetyLow risk
Generally safe, but practice good hygiene.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Auckland
Immigration New Zealand Auckland Office
Level 3, 46 Sale Street, Auckland CBD
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Main office for visa applications and inquiries. Book appointments online.
Wellington
Immigration New Zealand Wellington Office
Level 4, 50 The Terrace, Wellington
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Head office; handles complex cases and appeals.
Practical information for HU travellers
Country basics
CapitalWellington
LanguageEnglish, Māori
Driving sideLeft-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS license valid for up to 12 months.
Money
CurrencyNew Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 1.76 NZD
Time zone
Local timeUTC+12
vs New York+17h (EST) / +16h (EDT)
vs Los Angeles+20h (PST) / +19h (PDT)
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
IType I — same as Australia. US plugs do not fit. Bring an adapter.
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Safe to drink
Safe to drink throughout New Zealand.
Emergency numbers
Getting to New Zealand
Nearby destinations you can also visit
Countries close to New Zealand — with your same passport.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Hungary is not on the visa-waiver list for New Zealand. You must apply for a Visitor Visa before you travel. The NZeTA is only for transit or for citizens of visa-waiver countries.
Typically 20 to 30 days. Apply at least 6 weeks before your planned departure. During peak season (November–February) it can take longer.
The standard fee is NZD 211 (about EUR 120). This includes the application fee and the immigration levy. Payment is online by credit card.
Yes, you can apply for a visa extension before your current visa expires. You'll need to show you have enough funds and a valid reason. The extension fee is NZD 211.
If you are transiting for less than 24 hours and not leaving the airport, you may need a Transit Visa. Check with Immigration New Zealand — Hungarian passport holders generally need a transit visa.
Not necessarily, but you should have at least the first night booked. Immigration may ask for an address. Having a flexible booking for the first few nights is smart.
You will be refused entry and put on the next flight back. There is no way to get a visa on arrival. Always have your visa approved before you fly.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on August 5, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.