There is exciting news for travelers from Pacific Islands Forum nations. Beginning November 3, 2025, eligible travelers can now visit New Zealand visa-free through Australia. Under this new policy, travelers will only need to hold a valid New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) in addition to an existing Australian visa.
This initiative is part of a 12-month pilot visa-free travel program launched by the New Zealand government to strengthen regional ties and simplify travel between the Pacific Islands, Australia, and New Zealand. Travelers can remain in New Zealand for up to 90 days per visit with an NZeTA, eliminating the need for a traditional visa application process.
Eligible Nations for Visa-Free Entry
The program applies to citizens from the following 12 Pacific Islands Forum nations:
- Vanuatu
- Federated States of Micronesia
- Tuvalu
- Fiji
- Tonga
- Kiribati
- Solomon Islands
- Nauru
- Samoa
- Palau
- Republic of the Marshall Islands
- Papua New Guinea
Note: Travelers from Niue and the Cook Islands already enjoy full visa-free access to New Zealand and are not affected by this new policy.
Conditions for Visa-Free Travel
To qualify for visa-free entry to New Zealand under this arrangement, travelers must meet all the following conditions:
- Traveling directly from Australia to New Zealand.
- Holding a valid passport issued by one of the eligible Pacific Island Forum nations.
- Possessing a valid Australian visa at the time of check-in (not for transit use only).
- Holding a valid New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA).
Eligible Australian Visa Categories
Only certain Australian visas qualify for this visa-free entry arrangement. Travelers must ensure they hold one of the following visa subcategories:
| Visa Name | Subclass Code |
|---|---|
| eVisitor | 651 |
| Visitor Visa | 600 |
| Investor Retirement | 405 |
| Dependent Child | 445 |
| Retirement Visa | 410 |
| Contributory Aged Parent (Temporary) | 884 |
| Contributory Parent (Temporary) | 173 |
| NZ Citizen Family Relationship Visa | 461 |
| Potential Marriage Visa | 300 |
| Work and Holiday Visa | 462 |
| Temporary Graduate Visa | 485 |
| Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) | 400 |
| Student Visa | 500 |
| Working Holiday Visa | 417 |
| Training Visa | 407 |
| Skilled Regional (Provisional) | 491 |
| Temporary Work (Short Stay Expert) | 400 |
| Student Guardian Visa | 590 |
| Skills in Demand Visa | 482 |
| Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) | 188 |
| Business (Long Stay) Visa | 457 |
| Skilled Employer-Sponsored Regional (Provisional) | 494 |
| Business Owner (Provisional) | 160 |
| Senior Executive (Provisional) | 161 |
| Investor (Provisional) | 162 |
| Skilled – Recognised Graduate | 476 |
| State / Territory Sponsored Business Owner (Provisional) | 163 |
| State / Territory Sponsored Senior Executive (Provisional) | 164 |
| State / Territory Sponsored Investor (Provisional) | 165 |
| Sponsored Parent | 870 |
| Spouse (Provisional) | 309 |
| Spouse (Temporary) | 820 |
Travelers can confirm their visa type and subclass code by checking their official visa grant letter or verifying through Australia’s Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) service.
Understanding the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA)
The NZeTA is an electronic travel authorization that allows eligible travelers to enter New Zealand without applying for a visa. It is valid for multiple visits over a period of up to 2 years.
With a valid NZeTA, you can:
- Travel to New Zealand visa-free for stays up to 90 days at a time.
- Transit through Auckland International Airport.
- Make multiple trips to New Zealand while the NZeTA remains valid.
However, travelers are not permitted to work while visiting New Zealand under an NZeTA authorization. This program is for tourism, family visits, and short business or educational purposes only.
NZeTA Application Requirements
To qualify for an NZeTA, applicants must:
- Be in good health and of sound character.
- Hold genuine travel intentions and sufficient financial resources.
- Apply at least 3 days before travel via the official NZeTA website or mobile app.
- Ensure all personal details match the information on their passport.
After submission, applicants will receive electronic approval via email, which must be presented at check-in.
Additional Travel Requirements
In addition to the NZeTA, all passengers entering New Zealand must complete the New Zealand Traveler Declaration (NZTD) within 24 hours prior to their flight.
More details are available on the official NZTD Portal.
Program Impact
This visa-free travel program enhances regional mobility and strengthens economic and cultural ties among Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific Island nations. For travelers, it simplifies access to New Zealand by removing lengthy visa processes and promoting seamless tourism experiences across Oceania.
Conclusion
From November 3, 2025, eligible Pacific Island nationals can enjoy visa-free travel to New Zealand through Australia, provided they hold a valid Australian visa and obtain an NZeTA before departure. The initiative marks a milestone in regional cooperation and reflects New Zealand’s ongoing commitment to fostering Pacific unity and tourism accessibility.