New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) for US Travelers: Free, Separate from NZeTA
Short answer: The New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) collects travel, customs, immigration and biosecurity information. It is FREE. Everyone travelling into New Zealand must complete one — including New Zealand passport holders — and each traveller needs their own declaration (including babies and children). NZTD replaces the old paper Passenger Arrival Card. Holding an NZeTA or visa does not replace NZTD. Official start: travellerdeclaration.govt.nz. Stand: 18 August 2026.
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NZTD is not an NZeTA
| NZTD | NZeTA | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Traveller declaration (customs / immigration / biosecurity info) | Electronic travel authority |
| Cost | Free | Fee + often IVL (see NZeTA guide) |
| Official site | travellerdeclaration.govt.nz | immigration.govt.nz / official NZeTA app |
| On my-evisas.com | Declaration form filing assist | Yes — NZeTA help |
If you hold a New Zealand visa or NZeTA, you must complete an NZTD as well.
Who must complete a declaration
Per the official NZTD site:
- Everyone travelling into New Zealand, including New Zealand passport holders
- Each traveller, including babies and children
- Free — online form or NZTD app
When you can submit (air and sea)
| Mode | Earliest submit | Must be submitted by |
|---|---|---|
| Air | 24 hours before you start your trip to New Zealand | Passport control in New Zealand |
| Sea | 24 hours before departing the vessel's last foreign port | When the vessel has berthed at its first port in New Zealand |
Long-haul journeys without a stopover: you can submit 24 hours before the first leg (About page). Your declaration is linked to your passport and checked at eGate or by a border officer.
Official DIY channels and form help
DIY (preferred official path):
- Start online: https://www.travellerdeclaration.govt.nz/
- Or use the official NZTD app (linked from the same site)
You do not need to print anything once submitted (About page).
Form assist: my-evisas.com can help with e-arrival / declaration form filing. For NZeTA, use https://my-evisas.com/visas/new-zealand or the NZeTA guide.
FAQ
Is the New Zealand Traveller Declaration free?
Yes. Official site: it is FREE.
Do I still need NZTD if I already have an NZeTA?
Yes. Visa or NZeTA holders must complete an NZTD as well.
Does NZTD replace the paper Passenger Arrival Card?
Yes. Official About page: the NZTD replaces the old Passenger Arrival Card.
When is the earliest I can submit by air?
24 hours before you start your trip to New Zealand; submit by passport control.
Can babies skip the declaration?
No. A declaration is required for each traveller, including babies and children.
How my-evisas.com can help
- NZeTA (sellable): https://my-evisas.com/visas/new-zealand
- NZTD: complete on the official site/app (DIY), or ask about declaration form filing assist
- Not provided: sticker / Visitor Visa lodging as a product
→ New Zealand hub · NZeTA guide · Start NZeTA help
Sources
- New Zealand Traveller Declaration — Home (accessed 2026-08-18)
- New Zealand Traveller Declaration — About (accessed 2026-08-18)
Important Notice
The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. my-evisas.com is a private service provider and not a government authority, embassy, or consulate.
Visa requirements and entry regulations can change at short notice. We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information provided. Only the official regulations in force at the time of your application are authoritative.
As of: 18 August 2026
Binding and up-to-date information is provided exclusively by the relevant official authorities. Please verify the currently applicable requirements before your application or travel: https://www.travellerdeclaration.govt.nz/