New Zealand entry requirements for South Korea passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 17, 2026·View sources
Visa 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
South Korean passport holders need a visa to visit New Zealand. For short tourist or business trips, you'll apply for the NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) online before you travel. This guide covers everything you need for a smooth entry in 2026.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Visa application Apply for a visa before travel | South Korean passport holders need a visa to enter New Zealand. Apply online at the New Zealand Immigration website — processing takes 1–3 weeks for most visitor visa applications. You will need to upload your passport scan, flight itinerary, accommodation bookings, and bank statements.Apply for visa | Required |
| Valid passport Must be valid for the duration of stay | Your passport must be valid for at least the entire period you plan to stay in New Zealand. No minimum validity beyond departure is required, but airlines may check for 3 months validity — confirm with your carrier before flying. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of onward travel | Immigration officers at Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch routinely ask for a return or onward ticket. Have a printed or digital copy of your flight booking ready — a flexible ticket or a refundable fare works if your plans are uncertain. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel bookings or host invitation | Carry printed or digital copies of your hotel reservations, hostel bookings, or a letter of invitation from your host. Immigration may ask for your first night's address on arrival — have it ready. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Bank statements or cash | Have bank statements from the last 3 months showing at least NZD 1,000 per month of your stay, or a credit card with sufficient limit. Immigration officers rarely ask, but budget airlines sometimes check at check-in. | Recommended |
Biosecurity is strict
New Zealand has some of the world's strictest biosecurity laws. Declare all food, plants, animal products, camping gear, and sports equipment. Even a forgotten apple in your bag can trigger a fine. When in doubt, declare it.
NZeTA is not a guarantee of entry
Having an approved NZeTA does not guarantee you'll be allowed into New Zealand. The final decision is made by the immigration officer at the border. Always carry supporting documents (return ticket, accommodation, funds) to show your visit is genuine.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for NZeTA online
Go to the official Immigration New Zealand website or download the NZeTA app. Fill in your passport details, travel plans, and answer health/character questions. Pay the fee (NZD 9 app, NZD 12 web). Most approvals come within minutes, but apply at least 72 hours before departure to be safe.
2
Book your flights and accommodation
Book a return or onward ticket. Reserve your first night's accommodation (hotel, hostel, or Airbnb). Keep all confirmations saved on your phone and printed.
3
Pack your documents
Print your NZeTA approval email, flight itinerary, accommodation confirmation, and travel insurance certificate. Keep them together in a folder in your carry-on. Also save digital copies on your phone.
4
Arrive at Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch airport
At passport control, present your passport (with valid NZeTA). The officer may ask your purpose of visit, how long you're staying, and where you're staying. Answer clearly. They may also ask for your return ticket and proof of funds. After clearance, collect your bags and proceed to customs.
5
Complete arrival declaration
You'll need to fill out a New Zealand Traveller Declaration (online or paper form). Declare any food, plants, animal products, or outdoor gear. New Zealand has strict biosecurity — undeclared items can result in a fine of NZD 400 or more.
Download New Zealand Entry Checklist
PDF · South Korea Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 17, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay9 months
ValidityUp to 18 months from issue
CostNZD 211 (~USD 130)
For tourism purposes; must leave after stay period.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay9 months per visit
ValidityUp to 18 months from issue
CostNZD 211 (~USD 130)
Allows multiple entries; good for frequent travellers.
Work visa (post-study or skilled)
Max stayVaries (1-3 years)
ValidityBased on job offer or qualification
CostNZD 495 (~USD 305) and up
Requires job offer or relevant qualification; pathway to residence.
Student visa
Max stayDuration of course
ValidityUp to 4 years
CostNZD 330 (~USD 203)
For full-time study at approved institution; may work part-time.
work visa
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
Indefinite (residence)
NZD 3,310 (~USD 2,040)
For skilled workers with a job offer in an occupation on New Zealand's skill shortage list. Requires points test for age, experience, and qualifications. Leads to permanent residency.
Apply student visa
Student Visa (Full-time study)
Up to 4 years (course duration)
NZD 330 (~USD 203)
For full-time study at a New Zealand educational institution. Allows part-time work (20 hours/week) during term and full-time during holidays. Must have sufficient funds and health insurance.
Apply investor visa
Investor 2 Visa
4 years (leads to residence)
NZD 3,310 (~USD 2,040)
For investors with NZD 3 million to invest in New Zealand over 4 years. Requires business experience and English language ability. Pathway to permanent residency.
Apply Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tourist visa (single entry)Standard fee for a single-entry visitor visa. | NZD 211 (~USD 130) |
| Tourist visa (multiple entry)Same fee as single entry, but allows multiple entries within validity. | NZD 211 (~USD 130) |
| Stay extensionFee for applying to extend visitor visa stay. | NZD 235 (~USD 145) |
| Overstay fine per dayMaximum cap may apply; overstayers risk deportation and bans. | NZD 100 (~USD 62) per day |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Unclear travel purpose20%
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
No transit visa needed
South Korean passport holders do not need a transit visa to transit through New Zealand airports, provided they remain airside and have a confirmed onward ticket.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- If leaving the airport or clearing immigration, a visitor visa is required.
Transit hubsAuckland Airport (AKL) · Christchurch Airport (CHC) · Wellington Airport (WLG)
Health & vaccines for New Zealand
Recommended vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, varicella)EssentialHepatitis ARecommendedTyphoidConsiderInfluenzaRecommended
Health risks
Mosquito-borne diseases (rare)Low risk
Risk of Ross River virus and other arboviruses is low, but present in some rural areas.
Food and water safetyLow risk
Generally safe, but travellers should practice good hygiene to avoid gastroenteritis.
Sun exposure and UVHigh risk
New Zealand has high UV levels; use sunscreen and protective clothing.
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; appointments recommended.
Wellington
Immigration New Zealand Wellington Office
Level 4, 45 Johnston Street, Wellington
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Handles visa extensions and complex cases; bring all original documents.
Practical information for KR 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 = 1.7 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
Up to 3 months per visit. The NZeTA itself is valid for 2 years, so you can make multiple trips within that period, each staying up to 3 months.
No, the NZeTA does not allow extensions. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a different visa (e.g., a visitor visa) before your NZeTA expires. Overstaying can result in deportation and a ban.
You can reapply with corrected information or contact Immigration New Zealand for guidance. Common reasons for denial include incomplete answers, criminal history, or health issues. If denied, you may need to apply for a standard visitor visa instead.
Yes, you still need an NZeTA if you're transiting through New Zealand (even if you don't leave the airport). The same application process applies.
Your passport (with valid NZeTA), return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation for your first night, and evidence of sufficient funds. Have them ready in your hand before you reach the officer.
No. The NZeTA is for tourism, visiting family, or short business trips (like meetings or conferences). You cannot work or study for more than 3 months. For work or study, you need the appropriate visa.
It's a mandatory online or paper form you complete before or upon arrival. You declare any food, plants, animal products, outdoor gear, or items over NZD 700. Failing to declare prohibited items can result in a fine of NZD 400 or more. Complete it online up to 24 hours before landing to save time.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 17, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.