New Zealander Passport
The New Zealand passport grants its holders access to 148 countries without a visa. They can also enter 40 countries by applying for an e-visa. Additionally, 25 countries offer visas upon arrival. However, New Zealand passport holders must apply for a visa prior to travel in 36 countries.
As of the latest census, New Zealand's population stands at approximately 4.9 million people. The country is known for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture. It's worth noting that over three-quarters of New Zealanders live in the North Island, making it the most populated region.
The New Zealand passport is a symbol of global mobility and freedom, offering its holders the opportunity to travel to various parts of the world with ease. Despite being a small island nation, New Zealand's population is diverse and dynamic, reflecting the country's rich history and cultural heritage.
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Visa-free map
Nearby countries.
The nearest visa free countries to visit for New Zealander passport holders are New Caledonia, Fiji, Vanuatu, Niue, Wallis and Futuna and Cook Islands .
Visa free countries
So, where can New Zealanders travel without a visa? We have listed all the countries where New Zealand citizens can travel visa-free, eliminating the hassle of visa paperwork.
- 🇦🇱 Albania (90 days)
- 🇦🇩 Andorra (N/A)
- 🇦🇹 Austria (90 days)
- 🇧🇾 Belarus (30 days)
- 🇧🇪 Belgium (90 days)
- 🇧🇦 Bosnia and Herzegovina (90 days)
- 🇧🇬 Bulgaria (90 days)
- 🇭🇷 Croatia (90 days)
- 🇨🇾 Cyprus (90 days)
- 🇨🇿 Czech Republic (90 days)
- 🇩🇰 Denmark (90 days)
- 🇪🇪 Estonia (90 days)
- 🇫🇮 Finland (90 days)
- 🇫🇷 France (90 days)
- 🇩🇪 Germany (90 days)
- 🇬🇷 Greece (90 days)
- 🇭🇺 Hungary (90 days)
- 🇮🇸 Iceland (90 days)
- 🇬🇧 Ireland (90 days)
- 🇮🇹 Italy (90 days)
- 🇱🇻 Latvia (90 days)
- 🇱🇮 Liechtenstein (90 days)
- 🇱🇹 Lithuania (90 days)
- 🇱🇺 Luxembourg (90 days)
- 🇲🇹 Malta (90 days)
- 🇲🇩 Moldova (90 days)
- 🇲🇨 Monaco (N/A)
- 🇲🇪 Montenegro (90 days)
- 🇲🇰 North Macedonia (90 days)
- 🇳🇴 Norway (90 days)
- 🇵🇱 Poland (90 days)
- 🇵🇹 Portugal (90 days)
- 🇷🇴 Romania (90 days)
- 🇸🇲 San Marino (N/A)
- 🇷🇸 Serbia (90 days)
- 🇸🇰 Slovakia (90 days)
- 🇸🇮 Slovenia (90 days)
- 🇪🇸 Spain (90 days)
- 🇸🇪 Sweden (90 days)
- 🇨🇭 Switzerland (90 days)
- 🇺🇦 Ukraine (90 days)
- 🇬🇧 United Kingdom (6 months)
- 🇻🇦 Vatican City (N/A)
- 🇽🇰 Kosovo (90 days)
- 🇫🇴 Faroe Islands (90 days)
- 🇬🇮 Gibraltar (6 months)
- 🇳🇴 Norway (Unlimited Stay (Indefinite Stay).)
- 🇦🇴 Angola (30 days)
- 🇧🇼 Botswana (90 days)
- 🇸🇿 Eswatini (30 days)
- 🇬🇲 Gambia (90 days)
- 🇱🇸 Lesotho (14 days)
- 🇲🇼 Malawi (30 days)
- 🇲🇺 Mauritius (180 days)
- 🇲🇦 Morocco (3 months)
- 🇳🇦 Namibia (3 months)
- 🇷🇼 Rwanda (30 days)
- 🇿🇦 South Africa (90 days)
- 🇹🇳 Tunisia (3 months)
- 🇿🇲 Zambia (30 days)
- 🇾🇹 Mayotte (90 days)
- 🇷🇪 Réunion (90 days)
- 🇦🇬 Antigua and Barbuda (6 months)
- 🇦🇷 Argentina (90 days)
- 🇧🇸 Bahamas (3 months)
- 🇧🇧 Barbados (6 months)
- 🇧🇿 Belize (N/A)
- 🇧🇴 Bolivia (90 days)
- 🇧🇷 Brazil (90 days)
- 🇨🇦 Canada (6 months)
- 🇨🇱 Chile (90 days)
- 🇨🇴 Colombia (90 days)
- 🇨🇷 Costa Rica (90 days)
- 🇩🇲 Dominica (6 months)
- 🇩🇴 Dominican Republic (30 days)
- 🇪🇨 Ecuador (90 days)
- 🇸🇻 El Salvador (180 days)
- 🇬🇩 Grenada (3 months)
- 🇬🇹 Guatemala (90 days)
- 🇭🇹 Haiti (3 months)
- 🇭🇳 Honduras (90 days)
- 🇯🇲 Jamaica (N/A)
- 🇲🇽 Mexico (180 days)
- Netherlands (90 days)
- 🇳🇮 Nicaragua (90 days)
- 🇵🇦 Panama (90 days)
- 🇵🇾 Paraguay (90 days)
- 🇵🇪 Peru (90 days)
- 🇰🇳 Saint Kitts and Nevis (3 months)
- 🇱🇨 Saint Lucia (6 weeks)
- 🇻🇨 Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (3 months)
- 🇸🇷 Suriname (90 days)
- 🇺🇸 United States (90 days)
- 🇺🇾 Uruguay (90 days)
- 🇻🇪 Venezuela (90 days)
- 🇬🇱 Greenland (90 days)
- 🇬🇫 French Guiana (90 days within 180 days)
- 🇵🇲 Saint Pierre and Miquelon (90 days)
- 🇦🇼 Aruba (30 days, extendable to 180 days)
- 🇨🇼 Curaçao (90 days)
- 🇸🇽 Sint Maarten (90 days)
- 🇦🇮 Anguilla (3 months)
- 🇧🇲 Bermuda (Up to 6 months, decided on arrival)
- 🇻🇬 British Virgin Islands (30 days, extensions possible)
- 🇰🇾 Cayman Islands (6 months)
- 🇫🇰 Falkland Islands (A visitor permit is normally issued as a stamp in the passport on arrival, The maximum validity period is 1 month.)
- 🇲🇸 Montserrat (6 months)
- 🇹🇨 Turks and Caicos Islands (90 days)
- 🇵🇷 Puerto Rico (Under the Visa Waiver Program, for 90 days on arrival from overseas for 2 years. ESTA required.)
- 🇻🇪 Venezuela (All visitors are fingerprinted.)
- 🇦🇲 Armenia (180 days)
- 🇧🇳 Brunei (30 days)
- 🇹🇼 China (15 days)
- 🇬🇪 Georgia (1 year)
- 🇮🇱 Israel (90 days)
- 🇯🇵 Japan (90 days)
- 🇰🇿 Kazakhstan (30 days)
- 🇰🇬 Kyrgyzstan (60 days)
- 🇲🇾 Malaysia (90 days)
- 🇲🇳 Mongolia (30 days)
- 🇴🇲 Oman (14 days / 90 days)
- 🇵🇭 Philippines (30 days)
- 🇶🇦 Qatar (30 days)
- 🇸🇬 Singapore (90 days)
- 🇹🇯 Tajikistan (30 days)
- 🇹🇭 Thailand (60 days)
- 🇹🇷 Turkey (90 days)
- 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates (30 days)
- 🇺🇿 Uzbekistan (30 days)
- 🇵🇸 Palestine (Arrival by sea to Gaza Strip not allowed.)
- 🇹🇼 Taiwan (90 days)
- 🇭🇰 Hong Kong (90 days)
- 🇲🇴 Macau (90 days)
- 🇮🇷 Iran (Tourists for Kish Island do not require a visa.)
- 🇻🇳 Vietnam (30 days)
- 🇦🇺 Australia (N/A)
- 🇫🇯 Fiji (4 months)
- 🇰🇮 Kiribati (90 days)
- 🇫🇲 Micronesia (30 days)
- 🇻🇺 Vanuatu (30 days)
- 🇨🇰 Cook Islands (90 days)
- 🇳🇺 Niue (30 days)
- 🇵🇫 French Polynesia (90 days within 180 days)
- 🇳🇨 New Caledonia (90 days)
- 🇼🇫 Wallis and Futuna (90 days)
- 🇵🇳 Pitcairn Islands (14 days visa free and landing fee US$35 or tax of US$5 if not going ashore.)
- 🇬🇺 Guam (45 days)
- 🇲🇵 Northern Mariana Islands (45 days)
This data has been sourced from Wikipedia and was last updated on 9/1/2024.
- Fiji visa free countries
- Tonga visa free countries
- Vanuatu visa free countries
ETIAS for New Zealanders
Europe's travel authorisation for citizens of new zealand.
This website does not belong to, nor is it affiliated with, the EU. The official website of the European Union is europa.eu.
New Zealand passport holders can travel to the Schengen Area without a European visa for up to 90 days.
Citizens of New Zealand can visit all Schengen member states with their valid passport, provided they meet the requirements for visa-free entry. This is because New Zealand is part of the EU's visa-exemption programme .
From 2025, New Zealand nationals will be able to apply for ETIAS to go to Europe visa-free. ETIAS , the European Travel Information and Authorisation System, is a new visa waiver for Europe. It will become an entry requirement.
ETIAS is being introduced to improve Schengen border security . It will make European destinations even safer for travellers from New Zealand and across the world.
ETIAS Required
Etias permits new zealanders to travel to all schengen member states from 2025:.
- Czech Republic
- Netherlands
- EU Schengen
- Non-EU Schengen States
Non-Schengen EU States
Non-eu member states:.
- Liechtenstein
- Switzerland
Micro-States de facto part of Schengen Area:
- Vatican City
Europe Entry Requirements for New Zealand citizens
Citizens of New Zealand do not need a visa to travel to the Schengen Area for up to 90 days. This will not change with the introduction of ETIAS. ETIAS is not a European visa, it is a visa waiver, or electronic travel authorisation , for visa-exempt visitors.
From 2025, New Zealand passport holders will need to register with ETIAS to travel to countries in the Schengen zone. The ETIAS authorisation will be electronically linked to the traveller's passport and verified at the external Schengen border.
Citizens of New Zealand will maintain their visa-free privileges but will be legally required to obtain travel authorisation from 2025.
Requirements to apply for Europe's travel authorisation from New Zealand
The ETIAS visa waiver for New Zealanders will be available through an easy-to-use online application system. The requirements for an ETIAS visa-waiver application are simple and straightforward:
- A New Zealand passport that is machine-readable and valid for at least 3 months after the intended date of departure from the European ETIAS countries
- A debit or credit card to pay the ETIAS fee
- A current email address, needed to receive the approved ETIAS visa waiver
These are the basic ETIAS requirements for New Zealand citizens who wish to visit any of the Schengen Member States. The Schengen Area is comprised of European countries that agreed to form one entity for the purposes of integrating passport and border control.
Where in Europe can New Zealand citizens visit with ETIAS?
The Schengen zone includes EU member countries , Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden.
It also includes 4 countries that are not EU members: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland, plus the microstates of Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City.
ETIAS will also be required to visit Bulgaria, Cyrpus and Romania which are EU countries in the process of joining the Schengen Area.
The new ETIAS electronic travel authorisation will allow New Zealanders to travel to all of the countries mentioned above , as well as the freedom to travel between them.
New Zealand passport holders are advised to take into account that the United Kingdom and Ireland are not part of the Schengen Area. ETIAS will not be valid to travel to the UK or Ireland and New Zealand citizens need to check the specific entry requirements.
ETIAS for New Zealand Citizens Application
The ETIAS visa waiver will be a legal requirement for New Zealanders entering the Schengen zone, as of 2025 . The visa waiver can be obtained online by accessing the ETIAS application form using an individual’s smartphone, tablet or desktop computer and completing the easy-to-follow online process.
New Zealanders applying for an ETIAS will need to provide some basic personal information such as the following:
- Date and place of birth
- Street address
- Contact phone number
- Accurate passport details such as country of issuance, issuance date, expiration date and passport number
Citizens of NZ completing the online ETIAS application will also be asked to disclose some of the following details:
- Criminal records
- Employment history
- Ties with human trafficking
- Prior travel to conflict areas or history of deportation from any EU Member States
- Past European travel information
The application process for ETIAS is simple and straightforward and the form should take NZ citizens no more than 10 minutes to complete. Processing is also fast, New Zealand citizens will need to apply just a few days before their trip to Europe.
Applicants are advised to carefully review all the information prior to submitting their European visa waiver application in order to make sure that there are no typing errors or inconsistencies in their data. This is to ensure that their ETIAS request can be processed smoothly since any mistakes may delay the process.
The last step of the ETIAS travel authorisation application process is payment , which is made using a credit or debit card.
ETIAS security checks for New Zealand nationals
Once the application is submitted, it will be cross-checked against European border security and criminal databases .
The information submitted within the ETIAS application system allows European immigration authorities to pre-screen all citizens intending to visit the Schengen zone. ETIAS checks are carried out to identify any potential threats and improve security for the safety of residents and visitors alike.
All of the data provided on the Europe visa waiver application is checked against multiple security databases managed by the European Union Agency for the Operational Management of Large-Scale IT Systems in the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice, otherwise known as eu-LISA .
Some of the security databases used for screening include:
- VIS , a database that compiles visa information
- SIS , a shared European database used to identify individuals that are suspected to have a criminal background, as well as missing people, and stolen assets
- EURODAC , a database that compiles fingerprint info
All of the security measures and processes that comprise ETIAS are being put in place with the objective of identifying citizens that enter the Schengen Area illegally or commit identity theft and other types of fraud.
If an NZ citizen’s application raises any red flags during its automated screening against security databases, the individual’s form will have to undergo manual processing by staff of the ETIAS.
In the event that manual assessment by the European Coast or Border Guard is required for an ETIAS application , this will result in longer processing and delivery time.
An ETIAS visa waiver for NZ passport holders is likely to be denied if the citizen has been involved in serious criminal activity.
New Zealand’s bilateral agreements with European countries
The New Zealand government has successfully negotiated individual visa waiver arrangements , known as bilateral agreements, with several countries in Europe. This means that citizens of New Zealand can visit these countries for more than the 90-day visa-free permission already in place.
All types of passports meeting the validity requirements and issued by New Zealand can be used to visit the below nations as an extended stay:
- Belgium (2 months)
- Denmark (3 months)
- Germany (3 months)
- Italy (3 months)
- Luxembourg (90 days)
- Netherlands (90 days)
- Iceland (3 months)
- Liechtenstein (90 days)
- Norway (90 days)
- Switzerland (90 days)
New Zealanders holding an ordinary passport can enter the following countries for the stated additional period:
- Greece 90 days
- Spain (90 days)
- France (90 days)
- Austria (3 months)
- Portugal (90 days)
- Finland (90 days)
- Sweden (3 months)
It is also possible for New Zealand visitors in possession of a diplomatic, service, or official passport to enter Austria for up to 3 months beyond the 90-day visa-free period allowed in the UE.
A bilateral agreement is a deal signed with an individual government. This means that under one agreement, New Zealanders can only travel visa-free to the country the agreement applies to and must remain there for the total length of application of this reciprocal arrangement.
Those interested in visiting more than one Schengen Member State visa-free within one trip should apply for an ETIAS visa waiver for Europe.
Note : Bilateral agreements between NZ and EU Member States might vary depending on new legislation set in place.
Travelling from New Zealand to Europe with ETIAS
Once the travel authorisation has been approved, the ETIAS will be sent to the applicant by email . No physical documents will be sent to applicants, since their passport will be digitally associated and reflect their status as ETIAS holders to immigration officials.
The ETIAS visa waiver for New Zealanders is valid for a total of 3 years from the date of approval and allows unlimited entries into the Schengen zone. The EU visa waiver is electronically linked to a citizen’s passport, specifically to the passport that was used in the application process.
This means that travellers with dual citizenships must make sure to travel on the same passport number the user typed in when completing the ETIAS online application form.
Similarly, ETIAS cannot be transferred to a different passport . Therefore, if a traveller’s passport expires before the ETIAS 3-year validity period is finalised, the electronic travel authorisation shall be rendered null on the passport’s expiration date.
Since ETIAS will be obligatory for New Zealanders , citizens will have to apply for a new ETIAS if their visa waiver, or their passport expires.
![EU VISA WAIVER FOR NEW ZEALAND CITIZENS APPLICATION EU VISA WAIVER FOR NEW ZEALAND CITIZENS APPLICATION](https://www.etiasvisa.com/user/pages/etias-requirements/new-zealanders/_eu-visa-waiver-for-new-zealand-citizens-application/etias-visa-application-new-zealanders.png)
ETIAS for New Zealanders - FAQ
Do new zealand citizens need a visa for europe.
No citizens of New Zealand do not need a visa to travel to the Schengen Area short-term. Nationals of New Zealand are allowed visa-free entry for up to 90 days.
When ETIAS is fully operational NZ passport holders will still be able to go to the EU without a visa , however, they will have to register online for ETIAS prior to their travels.
How long can a New Zealander stay in Europe?
NZ passport holders are granted a 90-day stay within a 180 days into the Schengen Area without a visa. For these purposes, the 180-day period begins on the first day that a traveller enters a member country.
The 90 days are counted by adding the total number of days a visitor spends within the Schengen Area starting from the first day they entered. This includes an unlimited number of entries into and exits from member nations.
Can I work in Europe with a New Zealand passport?
Yes , New Zealanders can work in Europe . They must apply for a national visa for the Schengen country they wish to work in.
Can New Zealand citizens study in Europe with an ETIAS visa waiver?
New Zealanders traveling to the Schengen Area with an ETIAS can study for up to 90 days with the visa waiver. They may also take part in events such as a congress or brief workshop.
NZ passport holders who wish to study for an Undergraduate degree or Master’s degree programme in any Schengen area member country are required to hold an appropriate study visa or residence visa, depending on which country they wish to study in.
Requirements for New Zealanders
In 2025 , the European Union plans to introduce the European Travel Information and Authorisation System , or ETIAS, as a travel security measure for countries within the Schengen area.
The ETIAS will act as a visa waiver for New Zealanders travelling to Italy , as well as for citizens of the 61 other countries which are currently visa-exempt to visit Schengen countries. The ETIAS Italy for New Zealanders will grant visitors from New Zealand authority to enter Italy prior to their departure from New Zealand.
ETIAS requirements for New Zealand citizens
To meet the ETIAS Italy requirements for New Zealanders, travellers will need to provide the following:
- A valid New Zealand passport
- An active debit or credit card
- A valid email address
Once these requirements have been met, the application form for ETIAS Italy for New Zealanders may be completed online from any internet-connected device.
To apply for ETIAS to visit Italy, New Zealanders need to submit their basic personal information and passport details and answer some questions on their past travel and criminal history.
New Zealanders travelling to Italy can apply for their ETIAS quickly and easily . While applications may take up to 72 hours to be processed, they are generally approved within minutes.
According to the ETIAS Italy requirements for New Zealanders, minors must apply for ETIAS to visit Italy separately from their parent or guardian. If a parent completes a child’s ETIAS application form on the child’s behalf, the parent must submit their own personal details along with the application.
![eu-bandera eu-bandera](https://www.etiasitaly.com/user/sites/www.etiasitaly.com/pages/requirements/new-zealand/_fullwidth1/eu-bandera.jpg)
Personal information for the ETIAS Italy
![imagen-application imagen-application](https://www.etiasitaly.com/user/sites/www.etiasitaly.com/pages/requirements/new-zealand/_fullwidth2/imagen-application.png)
The ETIAS Italy for New Zealanders requires travellers to submit a list of personal information along with their application. The information required is:
- Full name exactly as it appears on passport
- Birthdate and place of birth
- Home address
- Email address and other contact details
- Passport number
- Passport issue date and expiry date
- Nationality as stated on passport
Taiwanese travelling to Italy will also be asked a few security questions . It is essential that all information is provided accurately, any omissions or mistakes may lead to delays and even ETIAS rejection.
To apply for ETIAS to visit Italy, New Zealanders should indicate which Schengen area country they intend to visit first. ETIAS grants its holders authorisation to move freely within the Schengen zone for up to 90 days within a 180-day period .
However, even if ETIAS is approved, it does not automatically guarantee entry into the Schengen Area. The ultimate decision rests with the border patrol officers at the port of entry for New Zealanders travelling to Italy.
When New Zealanders apply for ETIAS to visit Italy, the information submitted is contrasted with a series of security databases within the European Union. Any ETIAS application that triggers an alarm within these databases will be reviewed manually .
Rejected applications for ETIAS Italy for New Zealanders may be appealed by providing further documentation to support the original application.
What documents do I need for the ETIAS Italy?
ETIAS Italy requirements for New Zealanders state that all ETIAS applicants need a valid passport . The passport must remain valid throughout the application process, upon arrival into Italy, and for no less than 3 months after the traveller intends to leave the Schengen area.
The ETIAS Italy for New Zealanders will only be valid if the passport it is attached to is also valid . If the passport expires, the ETIAS is considered invalid and a new application must be submitted.
An ETIAS remains valid for 3 years once approved , but cannot be renewed once expired.
![imagen-requisitos-personal-information imagen-requisitos-personal-information](https://www.etiasitaly.com/user/sites/www.etiasitaly.com/pages/requirements/new-zealand/_fullwidth3/imagen-requisitos-personal-information.png)
Medical info for New Zealand citizens
![imagen-requisitos imagen-requisitos](https://www.etiasitaly.com/user/sites/www.etiasitaly.com/pages/requirements/new-zealand/_fullwidth4/imagen-requisitos.png)
While New Zealanders travelling to Italy do not need to take any special health precautions , they are nonetheless advised to follow the news, travel and health updates and advisories from both New Zealand and the European Union in preparation for their trip.
Furthermore, New Zealanders travelling to Italy should get health insurance before their trip, in case of emergencies. For New Zealanders travelling with prescription medications, it is recommended that all medicines be stored in their original packaging and clearly labelled. The emergency services can be reached in Italy by calling 112 .
ETIAS Italy Benefits for New Zealand Citizens
The ETIAS is designed to pre-screen travellers ahead of their trip. In doing so, the EU will be able to identify individuals with criminal records, or persons that may pose a threat to the Schengen area. This means that New Zealanders travelling to Italy will be safer and better protected from potential dangers during their stay in Italy and neighbouring countries.
Additionally, since ETIAs is electronically linked to the passport, border checks should be faster and smoother.
![italy-map italy-map](https://www.etiasitaly.com/user/sites/www.etiasitaly.com/pages/requirements/new-zealand/_fullwidth5/italy-map.png)
- Capital : Rome
- Language : Italian
- Time Zone : GMT+1
- Currency : €
- Country calling code : +39
- Population : 60,59 milions
![Flag_of_Italy Flag_of_Italy](https://www.etiasitaly.com/user/sites/www.etiasitaly.com/pages/requirements/new-zealand/_fullwidth5/Flag_of_Italy.png)
Electric socket
![origin-embassy origin-embassy](https://www.etiasitaly.com/user/sites/www.etiasitaly.com/pages/requirements/new-zealand/_magic-card/origin-embassy.png)
34-38 Grant Road, Thorndon, P.O. Box 463, Wellington 6140, New Zealand
(+64) 4 473 5339
![destination-embassy destination-embassy](https://www.etiasitaly.com/user/sites/www.etiasitaly.com/pages/requirements/new-zealand/_magic-card/destination-embassy.png)
Via Clitunno, 44, Rome 00198, Italy
(+39) 06 853 7501
France ETIAS Requirements for New Zealanders
New Zealand citizens do not need a visa to go to France but will need an ETIAS France to visit the country from 2025. The new electronic travel authorisation will be required to enter the Schengen Area from visa-exempt countries.
Travellers from New Zealand will still be able to go to France without a visa , but they will need to register with ETIAS.
On this page, you can find out more about traveling to France from NZ with ETIAS , as well as when New Zealand citizens need a visa for France. You’ll also find essential tips about travelling to France from Zealand, including other entry requirements and embassy information.
ETIAS: Simplifying Travel from NZ to France
ETIAS is a visa waiver for Europe, similar to the United States ESTA. It is being introduced to improve Schengen border control and enhance security. ETIAS will make France and other European countries even safer for visitors from New Zealand and the rest of the world.
Travellers from New Zealand will need to complete the ETIAS online application form before going to France. It will take just a few minutes to register and applications will be processed quickly.
Do I need a visa for France from New Zealand?
New Zealanders do not need a visa to visit France short term . Nationals of New Zealand can visit France visa-free on holiday or business for up to 90 days per 180-day period.
From 2025, travellers from New Zealand will need to apply for ETIAS to visit France without a visa. ETIAS is a visa waiver , not a visa, and will be simple to obtain online.
ETIAS France application from New Zealand
The application for the ETIAS France will take minutes to complete online. You will need to provide basic personal and passport information . There will also be some eligibility questions to verify you are eligible to travel to France from New Zealand without a visa.
This information will be cross-referenced across international and Europe-wide security databases . It’s important to double-check that the correct information has been submitted during the application.
On completion of this section, you will then be required to pay the processing fee by debit or credit card. The application will then be processed and the decision to approve or reject your request for an ETIAS will be delivered directly to your email address .
ETIAS France requirements from New Zealand
The other key ETIAS requirements for New Zealanders are personal details that are used to assess the eligibility of the candidate . This includes your:
- Surname at birth
- Date of birth
- Place of birth
- Citizenship
- Email Address (necessary to receive the ETIAS notification)
- Phone number
- Intended country of arrival in the EU (France)
You will also be required to complete some background and eligibility questions for security purposes .
If you are travelling to visit a family member or partner who is an EU citizen , it could also be necessary to submit proof of your relationship to them.
Travel to France from New Zealand with ETIAS
You’ll be notified by email when your ETIAS France from New Zealand has been approved . It will be electronically linked to your New Zealand passport and verified by border officials in France.
ETIAS is valid for 3 years , or until the passport used to apply expires, whichever is earlier.
You do not need to apply for ETIAS each time you travel from New Zealand to France . The same visa waiver can be used to visit the Schengen Area and France multiple times for up to 90 days per 180-day period .
The ETIAS travel authorisation can be used to visit any of the countries in the Schengen Area without a visa, not just France.
France entry requirements for New Zealand citizens
These are the documents New Zealanders need to travel to France :
- New Zealand passport with over 3 months of validity remaining from the intended date of departure from France
- ETIAS (from 2025)
New Zealanders need a visa for France if they do not meet the requirements for visa-free entry . ETIAS is not available yet, it will be fully implemented by 2025 and will be mandatory for travellers from New Zealand once the ETIAS system is fully implemented.
France visa requirements for New Zealanders: Beyond short stays
New Zealand nationals who do not meet the ETIAS France requirements need a France visitor visa. National visas are obtained through French embassies and consulates in New Zealand.
A visa for France from NZ is required to stay longer than 90 days , or for reasons not covered by ETIAS such as study or work.
Working in France as a New Zealander
For New Zealanders aspiring to work in France, working legally requires either a long-stay visa or a residence permit, depending on the duration and nature of employment .
Navigating employment regulations, social security enrollment, and taxation can be complex, and it's advisable to seek guidance from the Embassy of New Zealand in France or a legal professional.
Moving to France from NZ
Relocating to France from New Zealand requires comprehensive planning and understanding of French immigration laws.
The process begins with determining the most appropriate visa based on the length and purpose of your stay , be it for work, study, or retirement.
Embassy of France in New Zealand
If you need to apply for the types of France visa from New Zealand outlined above, you’ll need to contact the visa section of the French Embassy in Wellington.
- Address: 20 Ballance Street, Wellington 6011, New Zealand
We advise you to begin the visa application process well in advance of your intended move date , given the complexity and potential for lengthy processing times.
Medical info for Visiting France from NZ
France does not require any special medical prerequisites for New Zealand citizens. However, it is sensible to ensure that any vaccinations such as those for Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) or Hepatitis are up to date .
Furthermore, when travelling to France from New Zealand it is important to ensure you have sufficient health insurance coverage . The French medical system is world-class, although it can be very expensive for foreign travellers.
If you use the medical system in France (with or without insurance) be aware that health providers in most cases only accept cash payments. However, in some situations a “Feuille de Soins” (treatment form) can be filled out for a deferred payment via an insurer.
If you intend to travel with any prescription medication, first ensure that it is legal to possess in France.
The medication in question should be kept in a clear label container or its original packaging, ideally with its appropriate prescription form. Emergency medical services in France can be contacted via 15 or 122 .
Embassy of New Zealand in France
The Embassy of New Zealand in France serves as a pivotal resource for New Zealand citizens in the country, offering a range of consular services and support .
For New Zealanders planning to move to or work in France, the embassy can offer guidance on local laws, customs, and necessary documentation.
New Zealanders in France for a visit are also encouraged to register their presence with the embassy, ensuring access to timely support and updates on local security and travel advisories .
Address : Ambassade de Nouvelle-Zélande, 103 rue de Grenelle, 75007, Paris, France
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Can New Zealanders Stay In The Schengen Area For More Than 90 Days?
published by Bren
Last updated: May 17, 2020
This article is a part of my travel tips series for New Zealand travellers. If you’re not from NZ, this post won’t apply to you. You can see the rest of the Kiwi traveller guides by clicking here .
If you’ve travelled to Europe, you will be familiar with the 90/180 days Schengen visa rule. Citizens of Annex 2 countries , of which New Zealand is one, can enter and stay in the Schengen Area for 90 days within a 180 day period without a visa. Your 180 day count begins from the first day you enter a Schengen Area country, and you can leave and enter as many times as you wish, as long as your total days in the region do not exceed 90 for that 180 day period. Pretty simple. Currently, the Schengen Area includes the following 26 countries:
- Czech Republic
Netherlands
Switzerland.
- Liechtenstein
There are no border controls between these countries, and you can move freely between them without a passport.
New Zealand’s bilateral agreements
Important: The information below is exclusively for New Zealand passport holders, who have slightly different Schengen rules to other countries. If you are not a New Zealand passport holder, this post will not apply to you. You can read about the standard Schengen rules here.
For New Zealanders the rules are a bit different. Before the Schengen agreement was inked, New Zealand had signed bilateral visa waivers with many European Schengen countries (as far back as the 1950’s). The visa waivers mean that the 90/180 day rule applies to each country individually, rather than the Schengen Area as a whole. This means you can stay in Spain for 90 days, then France for 90 days, then Germany for 90 days and so on.
(Trust me, this is a big deal. Some backpackers are willing to give a left nut and a pinky for a second 90 days).
The countries with this bilateral visa waiver agreement are as follows:
- The Netherlands
The New Zealand government confirms the European Commission still honours these visa waivers and that they override the Schengen agreement.
You can read more here and here . Both sources are official government websites.
Update April 2018: It seems that the validity of these waivers is becoming more uncertain. When I wrote this article in 2016, the websites I linked above described the waivers in great detail. Now they just make a brief mention of them. As of right now this is what it says:
“New Zealand has bilateral visa waiver agreements with many of the individual countries in the Schengen area. Some of these visa waiver agreements allow New Zealanders to spend a limited time in the relevant country, without reference to time spent in other Schengen area countries. Entry, and the length of stay under these visa waiver agreements, is subject to the decision of the local immigration authorities.”
This does not mean the waivers have been revoked. They are still in place. It just means the NZ government is encouraging you to confirm the waivers with the relevant European embassies instead, which makes sense. Continue reading below on how to do that.
But does it work?
All our government websites caution that immigration officers may be unaware of these agreements. The advice was to contact the relevant embassies and get confirmation that the agreements are still recognised in the countries you plan to visit.
Since I wasn’t quite sure where my Eurotrip would end up, and also for the sake of this blog post, and also because I have no life, I just contacted all of them.
Using the embassy listings provided on Go Abroad, I sent an email to all of them. Here’s what I said:
My name is Brendan Lee, I’m a New Zealander travelling in Europe at the moment. I got your details from the Embassy listing on Goabroad.com.
I’ve been told we have a bilateral agreement with [country], that allows me to spend 3 months in [country] visa-free, regardless of any time spent in other Schengen countries. I was advised to email you to confirm whether this bilateral agreement is still valid?
From Safe Travel:
“However, New Zealand has bilateral visa waiver agreements with many of the individual countries in the Schengen area [country included]. These visa waiver agreements allow New Zealanders to spend up to three months in the relevant country, without reference to time spent in other Schengen area countries. The European Commission has confirmed that these agreements continue to be valid. These agreements thus effectively override the Schengen area restriction (which would otherwise be imposed on New Zealand passport holders) of no more than 3 months out of a 6-month period in the Schengen area as a whole.”
https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/travel-tips-travel-europe
Thank you so much!!
Here’s what they said:
The short answer
YES means they still honour the waivers. NO means they don’t. A question mark means I couldn’t find embassy details, or they didn’t reply after several tries.
The long answer
Here’s the exact email each embassy sent me.
“The bilateral agreement between Austria and New Zealand is currently still in force. It allows you to stay in Austria for an additional 90 days, if you can prove that you have left the Schengen Area after the first 90 days, and have not had any stopovers in other Schengen countries during the second 90 days. Further please note that it is not a guarantee that the bilateral agreement will be honored by all other Schengen Member States and that you might still be fined for overstay when you leave the Schengen Area.
Therefore, you are well advised to have proof of your stay (Hotel receipts, tickets etc) in each state of the Schengen area readily available.” For more information you may also want to visit the following websites: http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/visa-policy/schengen_visa/index_en.htm
-Austrian Consulate
“Referring to your email below I can inform you that a New Zealand passport holder does not need a visa for a stay of up to 90 days in any 180 days period in the Schengen area.
In addition the Embassy can inform you that, according to the SPF Foreign Affairs of Belgium, the actual bilateral agreement formally confirmed through an exchange of Notes on 1 November 1951 between the two countries, entitles New Zealand citizens to stay for two more months without a visa in Belgium after 90 days spent in any other Schengen country. When entering Belgium you will need to be able to prove you have not stayed in the Schengen area for more than 90 days. At the end of the 2 month period you will need to leave from Belgium and cannot visit another Schengen country.”
-Belgian Embassy
“Dear Brendan,
Yes, this is correct and still valid. For more information, please see link below:
https://www.nyidanmark.dk/en-us/coming_to_dk/visa/Visa_free_travel.htm
-Danish Consulate General
“Good Afternoon,
Yes the bilateral agreement between France and New Zealand is still in place.
For more information : https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/countries-and-regions/europe/france/new-zealand-embassy/living-in-france/travel-within-france-and-europe/ “
-French Embassy
“Yes, you can stay in Finland for 3 months [regardless of time spent in other Schengen countries].”
-Finnish Consulate
New Zealand citizens can travel visa-free to Germany for visits of up to 90 days per half-year. Times spent in other Schengen member states do not count towards these 90 days. However, as there are no I internal border controls, it is up to you to prove to immigration on departure that you have not spent more than 90 days in any one country.”
-German Embassy
“Hi Brendan,
Yes I can confirm this is correct. NZ has an old bi-lateral agreement with Iceland and a few other European countries, that the Schengen Area agreement does NOT override. This was an unintended oversight when the Schengen agreement was signed but it stands.
So you can on a NZ passport spend up to 3 months in Iceland regardless of your other European travel.
In the unlikely event you will have any issues about this in Iceland, you can contact the Icelandic Foreign Affairs as they know all about this and you could also show this email as a proof.
Have a good trip to Iceland.”
-Icelandic Consulate
While Italy originally told me the waivers are no longer valid, a reader has since emailed me an updated reply that says the waivers are still in fact recognised:
“We confirm that the bilateral agreement between NZ and Italy is in place. This means that you are allowed to a 90 day tourist stay in Italy even if you have already spent 90 days in another country in the Schengen Area.”
-Italian Consulate
This is also confirmed on the website of the Italian embassy :
The exchange of Notes signed on 25 January 1961 between Italy and New Zealand, entitles New Zealand citizens to stay in Italy without a visa for 90 more days irrespectively from other periods spent in other Schengen Countries .
“Once the 90 days for the Netherlands have been used up you cannot return for 180 days.
If you wish to stay longer pleased contact the IND (www.ind.nl) from within the Netherlands to request an extended tourist/visitors visa.
In principle, New Zealanders benefit from the short-stay visa waiver, as long as they (a) do not intend to work; (b) hold a passport valid for at least 3 months after date of return; and (c) have a return ticket. Border officials in EU countries may ask for other supporting documents such as an invitation letter, proof of lodging, return or round-trip ticket. For the precise requirements contact the local consular services of the EU country in question.
Therefore, New Zealand passport holders can freely travel in this period to countries in the Schengen Area: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland, Spain and Sweden.
On top of the overall Schengen visa waiver, New Zealand concluded bilateral visa waiver agreements with many of the individual countries in the Schengen area before the Schengen Agreement came into force. The countries with which New Zealand has bilateral visa waiver agreements are: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.
Persons of New Zealand nationality are, according to the Bilateral Visa Waiver Agreement, entitled to stay in the Netherlands for 90 days and consecutively go to one of the other countries (length of stay depending on the agreement of New Zealand with that country!). Or the other way around, first visit one of those countries and then the Netherlands afterwards.
As stated before there is no border control between these countries, but there will be when you leave the Schengen area. You might be questioned about the length of your stay if it is more than 90 days. You are strongly advised to gather evidence (e.g. airline tickets, hotel bills, receipts, etc.) that show the duration of your stay in each different Schengen/EU country. That way you have the best option to prove that your stay in the entire Schengen area was legal.”
-Dutch Embassy
“Dear Brendan
New Zealand citizens travelling on New Zealand passports are exempt from the visa requirement for entering Norway. They can stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days during a period of 180 days. Their stay can be for 90 consecutive days, or divided into several stays. The six-month period starts on the day of first entry into the Schengen area. A new six-month period starts immediately after the expiry of the previous one, thereby allowing another stay in the Schengen area of up to 90 days. However, although a stay will stretch from one six-month period to the next, they may never stay inside the Schengen area for more than 90 days each time. It is their own responsibility to make sure that they are not in breach of this requirement.
Further information regarding visa waiver countries as well as other visa matters can be found at the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration’s website: http://www.udi.no/Norwegian-Directorate-of-Immigration/Central-topics/Visa/ .
For stays longer than 90 days, a residence permit is required. There is no way to extend the 90 days visa free period. Please note that overstaying the 90 days visa free period may lead to expulsion and a future entry ban to the Schengen area.
However, please be advised that there is currently a separate bilateral agreement between Norway and New Zealand allowing stays for up to 90 days visa free in Norway in addition to any days spent in a non-Nordic Schengen country. As a consequence, New Zealand citizens will not be refused entry to Norway due to time spent in e.g. Spain. Whether or not non-Nordic Schengen countries will disregard time spent in the Nordic countries before entering the non-Nordic country must be confirmed with the appropriate immigration authorities.
For more information regarding the bilateral agreement between Norway and New Zealand, please contact the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration.”
-Norwegian Consulate General
“Visa matters are handled by our Consulate General in Sydney. The Consul General has advised that, contrary to the information contained in some official websites, the Portuguese authorities are of the opinion that the Schengen Agreement superseded the earlier bi-lateral agreements.
Tourists are permitted to stay in Portugal, without a visa, for a period not exceeding 90 days, in the aggregate for all Schengen countries. If you require further information, please contact the Consulate General in Sydney.”
-Portugese Consulate
“Yes, as a NZ citizen you may stay in Spain without visa for up to 3 months regardless of the time you have spent in any other Schengen area countries.”
-Spanish Embassy
“To my knowledge and as far as I am aware – nothing has changed concerning the bilateral agreement.”
-Swedish Consulate General
Thank you very much for your enquiry.
Please find required information on our website:
https://www.eda.admin.ch/content/dam/countries/countries-content/new-zealand/en/Visa%20waiver%20for%20New%20Zealanders%20for%20long-term%20stays%20in%20Switzerland.pdf
New Zealand citizens do NOT require a visa to visit Switzerland for a period of up to 90 days within a 180-days period. New Zealand citizens benefit from this short-stay visa waiver, as long as they:
(a) do not intend to work;
(b) hold a passport valid for at least 3 months after date of departure;
(c) have a return ticket.
Border officials in EU countries may ask for other supporting documents such as for example an invitation letter, proof of lodging, return or round-trip ticket.
Moreover a bilateral visa waiver agreement signed between Switzerland and New Zealand allows holders of New Zealand passports to stay in Switzerland up to 90 days irrespectively from other periods spent in other Schengen countries. In this case, New Zealand nationals are advised to carry evidence of the period spent in Switzerland (e.g. passport stamps, accommodation receipts, ATM slips).”
-Swiss Embassy
What about the other Schengen countries?
Remember we do not have bilateral agreements with every Schengen country. That means the 90/180 day rule for the Schengen region as a whole still applies to the following countries:
And also Portugal, and possibly Luxembourg and Greece as we discussed above.
Therefore, my advice for anyone visiting Europe would be to visit the above countries first , use up your 90 days, and then continue your travels into the countries with the New Zealand visa waivers. Again it is up to you to prove you have complied with all the visa restrictions, so keep your bus and train tickets and accommodation receipts. You won’t have passport stamps as there are no border controls within the Eurozone.
It is also worth noting that Macedonia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, Bulgaria, Romania, Serbia, Moldova, Ukraine, Russia, Belarus, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino and Vatican City are countries in Europe that are not a part of the Schengen zone and therefore will have their own visa/immigration rules. You can check those here.
This means you can go to one of these non-Schengen countries for 90 days, reset your 180-day counter, and then re-enter the Schengen zone for a new 180 day clock. This is the “90 days in/90 days out” planning strategy that many long-term travellers use to stay in Europe for extended periods. Of course you only need to do this if you want to visit the Schengen countries that don’t have a bilateral visa waiver with us.
Did it work for me?
Here’s how it all went down:
When it came time to leave Europe, the first task was choosing a country to leave from. I’d been in the Schengen Area for 184 days.
I’d been told Spain and France simply do not care if you have overstayed, probably because their workday is only 20 minutes long so they don’t have time to bother with silly travellers like us. We’re all too broke to pay the stupid fine anyway.
That wasn’t good for me because, as you know, I like to live dangerously. Like, right on the edge. I don’t even watch the safety video or turn off my phone during take off. So I made it a point to leave from the strictest country. I wanted to make sure I got checked, questioned, and see for myself whether our “special rules” checked out. For the sake of a blog post I was willing to miss my flight and risk that nasty overstayer stamp that would banish me from Europe for life. Life! (Actually I think it’s two years but whatever).
So who is the strictest? Word on the street is: Germany and Switzerland. They apparently check everyone, every time . No surprises there.
So I arrange to fly out from Zurich airport. Ideally the customs officer would know the deal and just stamp me through. But I had all the papers from all the websites printed out, ready to bust out on the table like Ally McBeal if things got crazy.
Finally I get to customs. Moment of truth. I take a look at the lineup. There is an art to this, you know. It goes like this:
Young, fun looking guys don’t give a toss when it comes to this stuff. Usually if you overstay 3 or 4 days somewhere they just stamp you through because they only care about going home to play Xbox later. And they hate paperwork. So if I’ve overstayed somewhere, I always try to choose a counter with a young smiley dude in his twenties. Young women are the next easiest. Try and look for the happy ones, hopefully they’re crazy in love with some hunk and not even thinking straight and won’t want to be mean in case it messes with their happiness. However, there’s a flipside. If you choose one that’s moody you’re gonna get it in the ass. There’s a 300% chance she’s gonna bust your balls mega hard and go high and mighty on you. So make sure she looks cheery. Next is the older guys. These guys are hit and miss. Sometimes they’re like your cool uncle and might just smirk at your cheeky overstay and give you a wink before stamping you through. Other times you might get that old school guy that just has to do everything by the book and will ping you. And then older ladies are usually the toughest. If you overstayed and you choose the counter with the older lady, she’s gonna bust you. But usually she’s going to be really nice about it, like a loving grandmother disciplining a toddler. Unless of course someone pissed her off that morning. Then you’re in for a long afternoon.
So I check out the lineup, and remember, I’m trying to get pinged here. But there’s no grumpy looking girls. No meticulous looking grandmothers either. So I go for the grumpiest looking old guy.
I rock up and he hasn’t even looked at my passport for two seconds before he asks, “And how long have you been in Europe, sir?”
Switzerland lives up to the rep. It’s on.
“About six months,” I tell him.
I pull my shoulders back and smile. In these situations you gotta have confident body language and stuff, you know.
“Mmm about six months,” he nods, flicking through my passport.
“Says you came in on June 6, through…Algeciras?”
“Oh yeah I entered in May but I went to Morocco for a couple of weeks and then I came back.”
He nods again slowly, flicks through a couple more pages, and then starts talking to the young mid-twenties guy in the booth next to him. He’s waving my passport at him, and he’s talking Swiss German so I don’t understand anything, but I hear him say New Zealand a couple of times, tapping the front of my passport. He’s talking like a Dad so I figure he’s explaining the intricacies of the special visa rules we have. Of course this young guy looks like he couldn’t give two shits about it.
Then he inks his stamp, still blabbing away, stamps my passport and says, “Have a safe flight!”
Didn’t even take two minutes. I get a little rush of satisfaction. I’m through!
Planning to stay in the Schengen Area for over 90 days?
So it worked out for me, let’s make sure it works out for you too. In the space of six months, I’ve noticed information change on various of the websites above multiple times. As of writing (November 2016) the information in this post is current, but if you’re planning to (legally) overstay your 90 days, I would do exactly as I did: Email the embassies of the countries you want to visit, print them, have them ready at customs, and maybe the printouts of the policies on their immigration websites too. As you saw in my little story some customs officers know their shit, but I’m sure many others don’t. If in some strange scenario the embassy has okayed you and customs won’t accept it, at least you can show you did everything you could to comply and you may just get a warning instead of a ban and a hefty fine. This is annoying since New Zealanders should be able to enjoy this arrangement without all the hassle, but this is what our government recommends.
Also note, the countries you visit isn’t actually too important. It’s the country you leave from that matters. You move freely without border checks in the Schengen Area, so it’s only when you fly out of the area that you’re going to be checked. If you’re really anxious about it, try and leave from a country that has expressly stated on their immigration website that the waiver is valid (Switzerland, Denmark, France).
Hope this helps, have a safe trip and enjoy Europe!
Update April 2018:
As you can see from the comments this post has become quite popular and is now #1 on Google for this topic. While this is great, it might also mean that all the embassies now have hundreds of Kiwis emailing them each day asking to confirm waivers. As you can imagine this is eventually going to piss off the staff and that could even result in some waivers being pulled altogether.
Let’s work together and try and make this more efficient. Here is my suggestion:
I am suggesting you only email for waiver confirmations from the country you actually intend to leave from. That is where you will be checked and questioned, so you really only need confirmation from that particular authority. I also encourage you to please come back here and share any confirmations you get from embassies and your experiences with the waivers at customs. Teamwork makes dreamwork. Thanks!
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Hi Bren, Thanks for sharing this fabulous blog post; the information you have uncovered for us Kiwis is so helpful. WorldWideAdventurers are most grateful to you, as our world travels take us that way in 2018.
You’re welcome!
Hi Bren, thanks for clarifying the Schengen agreement for NZers. It has been a ‘murky’ area for me… but great to see the options put so clearly. Awesome post.
Hi Bren, there’s a ton of detailed info here and I appreciate all the time and research that went into collating it. I’m dusting off my wings again for a new adventure in April and this post is so helpful.
Hey Bren, great information and very useful, cheers!
Just to add a little bit, I contacted Hungary as it was mentioned on this website by the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Affairs here: https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/countries-and-regions/europe/france/new-zealand-embassy/living-in-france/travel-within-france-and-europe/
and they came back and said we can also stay the separate 90 days there too, with the condition of leaving the Schengen zone as mentioned on that page. Here’s the full reply for anyone who’s interested:
“Referring to your e-mail we confirm that due to the bilateral agreement between New Zealand and Hungary, a New Zealand citizen can spend up to 90 days out of a 180 day period, even if he/she has already spent up to 90 days in any other Shengen countries. Please note that in this case you must leave the Schengen Zone from Hungary, and it is prohibited to go to other Schengen countries during the stay in Hungary.”
I also got a negative reply from the Consulate General of Austria in New Zealand, so it’s clear a few people who should know their stuff don’t: “The information is incorrect and you may not spend another 90 days in Austria. A NZ citizen may spend 90 days in the Euro zone – that’s it! ”
His information with regard to the Schengen zone is definitely wrong, though I’m still waiting on separate personal confirmation about Austria itself from this source https://www.bmeia.gv.at/en/
Cheers and all the best, Sam
Hey Sam thanks for sharing that. The Austria reply is an odd one, they gave me oddish rules as well, so a third email might get a different reply again. I’d say it would be safer to leave the zone from neighbouring Switzerland as I did.
Hey Bren, thanks for posting this very helpful reference.
I have also been emailing the Austrians. I think the Austrian consulate in NZ does not know what he is talking about, although this does highlight the difficulties we can face trying to use these Bilateral Visa Waivers!
I emailed the Austrian Embassy in Canberra, wanting to know whether we had to leave Austria prior to re-entry to be eligible for a visa waiver. It turns out it may not be necessary, this was their response:
“what is meant by exiting the Schengen area prior to entering Austria under the bilateral agreement is that you “leave” the Schengen area before your entry to Austria. Your Schengen stay ends and you enter Austria under the bilateral agreement, so the stays are clearly separated. For example if you are in Italy before travelling to Austria, your Schengen stay ends once you have left Italy. Then you enter Austria – under the bilateral agreement. There is no need to travel to a non-Schengen country like the UK to then fly into Austria.
There is usually no border control on the internal borders between other Schengen countries and Austria, therefore it is hard to prove when you have left the Schengen Area and entered Austria. If required by the authorities you will have to provide proof when and where you entered Austria.
As mentioned in the below email, please note that some other Schengen countries do not honour bilateral agreements between other Schengen countries and third countries, therefore another entry to a Schengen country (even for flight transit) might be considered an overstay.
Best regards,
Consular Office Austrian Embassy Canberra 12 Talbot Street, Forrest A.C.T. 2603, Australia (Post: P.O. Box 3375, Manuka A.C.T. 2603, Australia) Office: +61-2-6295-1533 | Fax: +61-2-6239-6751 http://www.austria.org.au | [email protected] “
So glad I found this, my first 90 days is nearly up and planning my next move. This is perfect cause I have been struggling to get some responses.
Nice. Have fun!
Hey since the wording on the safe travel site has changed to – ” New Zealand has bilateral visa waiver agreements with many of the individual countries in the Schengen area. Some of these visa waiver agreements allow New Zealanders to spend a limited time in the relevant country, without reference to time spent in other Schengen area countries. Entry, and the length of stay under these visa waiver agreements, is subject to the decision of the local immigration authorities. ” would you still recommend quoting that to the embassies in email or does that give room for them to say no easily?
Good question. I’m not really sure. You could quote that and then say that a friend (i.e. me) already confirmed it but you are just double checking to be safe. But either way I think you should still get confirmation.
Hi Bren:) Thank you for all this information it’s been very useful!
I’m going to be in Europe for 4 months in total and flying into and out for Germany. My dates stack up so I’m not overstaying according to the bilateral agreements but I’m concerned about entering Germany as my return flight is more than 3 months past my entry date – as long as I have my letter from the German embassy and hostel bookings proving where I will be do you think there would be any issues upon entry?
I think with a NZ passport you’ll be okay, each time I’ve entered Europe it’s been through Spain or France and they just stamp and don’t even look twice. In Germany you might need to explain yourself a little (but probably not) however I’d be very surprised if you weren’t allowed in.
Cheers! That makes me feel a lot more relaxed 🙂
I’ve flown into Paris and they didn’t even bother to stamp my passport. The English officials weren’t too sure what to do with me when I tried to board the Eurostar to the UK, and the same when arriving in Zurich by plane, but on the whole they just shook their heads “at the lazy French immigration” and let me through.
Yes I hear stories like that a lot – mostly about France and Spain. Great countries those 😀
Hey fellow kiwi, I’m planning my own 6 month jaunt at the moment and I was wondering if you could help? When entering a Schengen country that doesn’t honour the bilateral agreement, for example Italy, do they count the time spent in other Schengen countries that do honour the bilateral agreement as part of the overall time? Not sure if that makes sense, it’s just technically I enter the Schengen zone on 30th April in Germany but I wouldn’t be getting to Italy until late August. Even though most of the time spent during those 4 months is either in countries we have a bilateral agreement with or non Schengen countries. Any ideas?
Yes it will matter. If they don’t recognise the agreements they consider all Schengen time as to whether you’re an overstayer. I suggest going to all the “non-friendly” countries first, or at least making sure your final flight out of the Schengen zone is from a friendly country. i.e. don’t leave from Italy, leave from Switzerland or Germany or France.
beem advised not to by german consulate.Better to do non bilateral countries in east then finish up in france ,germany etc.Chances are immigration in these no bilaterals wont know. I kept all my shopping receipts ,they have time and place if they feel botherd to check. Ended up just showing formal letter from German embacy.No issues.
Hi Bren, We are about to depart for a 6 month trip and I have written to the Embassy of Spain and the Embassy of France to ask if the bilateral agreement will still be valid. I have replies from both embassies. A very short response from the Embassy of Spain “Yes, Spain honours the agreement”. The Embassy of France wrote a longer reply ” Bonjour, I confirm that the Bilateral Waiver agreement between France and New Zealand is still valid today. This agreement allows New-Zealand passport holders to stay visa free in France for 90 days each 6 months period even if they stayed previously in another Schengen state. To be able to prove when you leave France that you didn’t overstay, I strongly advise you to keep all your travel tickets and hotel invoices from the Schengen entry date (stamp from the immigration officer in your passport). http://www.ambafrance-nz.org/IMG/pdf/Border_controls_in_Europe.pdf?3252/e2e160de39bfa53f1c366ecf6da45e02752c731c However, if you want to enter France while you have already spent 90 days or more in the Schengen area, it will be at the end and as any traveller, the immigration officer who will accept or refuse entry subject to his investigations. I have printed these emails to carry with us and based on these responses we will enter the Schengen zone in France and depart the Schengen Zone from Spain. Thanks Bren for gathering all of this information to assist fellow kiwi travellers. Much appreciated!
You’re welcome! Have a mean as trip 😉
Hello Bren! This is amazing! You have really spent the time collecting the information and putting this together.
I have one question as I seem to get different responses. I attend to work in the UK and I have applied for a 2 year working visa. However I will be travelling the Schengen countries for the first 3-4 months before collecting my visa in the UK. Therefore I do not have a return ticket. Do I need a return ticket to be able to entry the Schengen countries?
Thank you for your time!
Top effort Bren. We are planning two years of sailing in the Med and the Schengen rule was looking like a nightmare with trying to calculate wintering over options. Well it is still a nightmare…UNLESS YOU’RE A KIWI!!! I need to repost your info to the main yachting forums as they do not currently cover the issue as it applies to us! Thanks
Hey Tony, of course you’re welcome to share this wherever. Your trip sounds awesome, have fun!
Hi Bren, great site – thanks for helping me navigate such a complex area. Your advice please – our family (me, wife and 17yo son) arrive in to France on 5th April and depart from Germany 25th July – 112 days in total, but all good as all the countries we are visiting have bilateral agreements with New Zealand EXCEPT for Hungary which we need to be in from 21-23 July (day 108 to day 110) – my son is competing in a sporting event, so dates can not be moved. We then fly home from Germany on the 25th July. My wife and I are driving in and out of Hungary, and my son is flying in from the Netherlands and we are meeting him there. Will getting in and out of Hungary (by road or air) be an issue given we have been in the Schengen region over 90 days at that stage? I’m not worried about overstaying, as departing from Germany will be fine (NZ has a bilateral agreement with them), but I don’t want my son to have visa issues at the airport when we are not with him. Your thoughts. Thanks
Hey Richard, I would be very surprised if he has any trouble at all, considering he is not entering nor leaving Schengen via Hungary. Your problem is most likely to come from Germany, as they are real sticklers for this kind of stuff and will definitely be checking your dates. Most likely they will see you are from New Zealand, go in the back and check it out and make a phone call, and then wave you through. Although I would still email the embassy and get a confirmation email just in case. Also, Hungary does have a bilateral agreement but it’s kind of funny – you can enter Hungary after 90 days is up but then you must leave the Schengen area from Hungary i.e. it’s supposed to be your last stop. So it’s unlikely you will have any trouble entering Hungary, but you could possibly have trouble exiting (although unlikely). Obviously I have no idea what will actually happen on the day, but that would be my opinion on it! Safest way is to get written confirmations via email, as I did.
Thanks Bren, awesome info. Our challenge is we are 6 months in France Spain Portugal Spain in that order. By the time we arrive in Portugal we will have been in schengen countries for more than 90 days. We also haven’t booked a ticket out of Spain. I can’t help feeling it will all work out on the day.
I would guess you’re going to be fine. Spain is pretty relaxed about it. Plus if you do your math you might not even be breaking any rules.
Hi Bren thanks for the info. My wife and I are on a trip with no real return plans. How does entering Europe without return airfares work. Will we encounter any problem do you think?
I’ve done it through both Turkey and Spain and didn’t have a problem. Can’t speak for every country though. If you’ve got cash in the bank and a NZ passport it shouldn’t be a problem.
Hi Bren, I am a NZ passport holder. If I spend more than 90 days in the Schengen under the visa waver agreement, can I then enter a EU country such as Romania or Slovenia without being accused of overstaying. That is: are the Schengen and the EU considered separate entities as far as the 90/ 180 rule is concerned or do I have to leave directly to a non EU country? Does anyone know the answer to this? Cheers, Peter
Schengen and EU overlap but there are countries that fall into only one. As long as you are outside the Schengen zone you won’t be considered overstaying – you will get a separate tourist visa for the non Schengen countries.
News about Austria and the bilateral agreement! Thank you Bren for all your information about Schengen zones, your blog is a great help. I asked the Austrian consulate in Auckland whether the bilateral agreement with NZ is still in place, this was her reply (27 April 2017): Dear Peter. The bilateral agreement between Austria and New Zealand is curently still in force. Further please note that it is not a guarantee that the bilateral agreement will be honored by all other Schengen Member States and that you might still be fined for overstay when you leave the Schengen Area. Therefore, you are well advised to have proof of your stay (Hotel receipts, tickets etc) in each state of the Schengen area readily available. For more information you may also want to visit the following websites: http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/visa-policy/schengen_visa/index_en.htm https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/travel-tips-travel-europe Mit freundlichen Gruessen – With best regards, Ingrid Goeschl Oesterreichisches Konsulat Auckland Austrian Consulate Auckland T: +64 9 476 0994 M: +64 21 858 818 E: [email protected]
Hi Bren, I see someone has asked about travelling to a Schengen country that doesn’t honour the bilateral agreement, and whether they count the time spent in other Schengen countries that do honour the bilateral agreement. Just wondering if this would be the same for someone on a Working Holiday Visa? E.g. if I was on a Working Holiday Visa in The Netherlands, and then went to Italy, would they recognise the Working Holiday Visa if I had been in The Netherlands for, say, 6 months or more as the visa is a 1 year visa? Or does it not matter if I don’t leave frmo Italy and am jsut travelling there but staying in the Schengen region? Your advice on this and would be so helpful.
Hey Jake, my guess is that if you’re on the Working Holiday visa you’re no longer a tourist and so these rules don’t apply to you. I.e. if you had a 2 year visa you can just roam freely through the EU for those 2 years – a lot of bloggers get the artist visa in Germany to travel the EU for longer. Best to check with the country issuing your visa though.
I’m having trouble getting the website to work that gives me the contact details for the embassies. I’m trying to get the Norwegian, Spainsh & French. I’m not sure if this is just me being technologically challenged.. If you could give me a list by any chance that would be awesome. Thanks so much for all your help in providing this article.
Hi Aja, they should all be listed here: https://embassy.goabroad.com/embassies-in/new-zealand
Site is working for me!
Thanks a lot for this info, Bren. In addition, it seems Finland doesn’t charge NZ citizens for Residence Permit applications: http://www.migri.fi/our_services/processing_fees Good news assuming near 700 NZD fee for a such application!
That’s awesome. We’re super privileged in this area it seems.
and it seems same applies for Iceland. Here is INZ operation manual mentioning bilateral fee waivers with New Zealand. It’s for foreign citizens applying for visas to NZ, but if those agreements are bilateral, then can be interpreted as something what applies for NZers applying for visas/permits to those countries.
Aaand it seems I forgot the link: https://onlineservices.immigration.govt.nz/opsmanual/40263.htm
Is it possible to spend the first 90 days in Spain and Sweden and apply for Finnish working holiday visa from Finnish embassy in Stockholm?
I’d suggest emailing the Finnish embassy.
Reuben, apparently you can apply only from outside of Finland: http://www.migri.fi/working_in_finland/working_holiday/submitting_the_application
When you say you can move freely within the Schengen zone without border checks, does that include when you fly??
Hello! Thanks for all this so great. If you were to overstay in Germany by accident, and then travel to Denmark via road. Could you fly to Croatia from Denmark and not have to worry about the German overstay since you are now in a new country that respects the visa waiver?
Most likely yes, unless you got a customs officer on a really bad day and he decided to ask you every single detail about your trip. Even then I don’t know if they would have any jurisdiction to do anything since your overstay was not in Denmark.
Thanks for a really useful post we are travelling in Europe at the moment and it has been super helpful. I contacted the Greek Embassy a coouple of days ago and althought its somewhat complicated they also honour the bi lateral agreement though somewhat complicated. Here is the response I got: There is, indeed, a bilateral visa waiver agreement between New Zealand and Greece.
However, be aware that the Border Guards upon entering the Schengen Area will stamp your passport and upon exit you may be challenged by local police or other authorities if they deem you as an overstayer and it is possible that you might be accused of being one when you leave the Schengen Area, unless you prove otherwise. For your information see the Schengen Borders Code (articles 10-11) http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:32006R0562&from=EN . if you desire to make use of the provisions of the bilateral agreement please mention that to the Border Guards (your passport will not be stamped upon entering Greece since you will be in an intra-Schengen flight but you will be checked when entering the Schengen Area later. So you should specifically ask the Border Guards upon entering Greece that you would like to make use of the provisions of the Bilateral Agreement between Greece and New Zealand and you shouldn’t enter Greece and then travel to another Schengen Member State during the same period since it will be really complicated to start /stop /restart the Schengen Calculation of the Days for short stay visits.
“Exceptionally, at the request of a third-country national, insertion of an entry or exit stamp may be dispensed with if insertion might cause serious difficulties for that person. In that case, entry or exit shall be recorded on a separate sheet indicating the name and passport number. That sheet shall be given to the third-country national”. Since it is upon the Border Guards to implement these rules and it is upon their own discretion to decide if you are an overstayer or not. (Article 7 of the Border Guards Code* Border checks on persons 1. Cross-border movement at external borders shall be subject to checks by border guards. )
In few words once entering the Schengen Area you are under the jurisdiction of Border Guards and if you want to stay in Greece for three months (making use of the provisions of the bilateral agreement) after you have stayed for 90 or less days in another Schengen Member State you must ask the Greek Border Guards upon entering Greece (because otherwise your passport will not be stamped since you are entering Greece from another Member State (no internal controls)) and then you will be considered an overstayer upon exiting and a fine will be imposed on you by them. At any rate please inform the Border Guards regarding your intentions and be aware that you cannot make use of both Agreements (Schengen & Bilateral) at the same time in Greece. If you want to enter the Schengen Area from Greece and then continue to other Schengen Member States similar issues are risen with the stamping of your NZ passport and proving to all Border Guards which Agreement you are making use of.
Hey Sam, thanks a lot for sharing that. It does sound complicated. If you experience any trouble please come back here and let us know! 🙂
I have just heard back from the Greek embassy with the same reply. Are they simply saying that yes new zealanders can go there for 3 months but try to have proof our entry and leaving dates and yes we can go to a schengen bilateral country afterwards…or am I missing something here??? Bren are you having any luck adjusting your website settings so we can see comments on a phone screen…your blog fits perfectly it’s just the comments don’t.
Just wondering what Greek Embassy you emailed for get a response. We are planning on visiting Greece and hopefully using the bilaterial waiver agreement but would feel more secure if we had an official email stating it exists.
Many thanks, Jarrod
I got that email and also couldn’t decipher it, but I managed to get some clarification.
My email: Just to clarify my understanding:
1. If I plan to enter Greece through a Schengen member state and leave it more than 90 days after I first entered the Schengen area I should clarify this with the border guards UPON ENTRY, and will then be able to stay in Greece for 90 days irrespective of time spent in other Schengen states and leave without issue. 2. If I plan to enter Greece from a non-Schengen state then I will be able to stay in Greece for 90 days irrespective of time spent in the Schengen area in the preceding 90 days. 3. If I stay in Greece until more than 90 days have elapsed since my entry to the Schengen area, and less than 90 days have elapsed since last exiting the Schengen Area, I should not that I will not be able to re-enter a Schengen member state under the Schengen area 90/180 day visa.
I hope that makes sense.. Is it all correct?
The reply: Hi Sean
Yes, that is also my understanding, if in doubt about anything please do check with the Border Guards at all times.
Safe Travels.
George Neonakis Honorary Consul Hon. Consulate of Greece Wellington
Interesting point to note – I was waived through easy as on arrival in Greece, but the Turkish airline staff in Istanbul (flew with Pegasus) wouldn’t let me on the plane until the Greek authorities had confirmed the existence of the waiver – even with those emails! It was a nervy 15 minutes or so.
I have flown into Greece after spending more than 90 days in other Schengen countries with no problem. Have also flown out of Greece to non-Schengen after more than 90 days in Schengen. The Greek Border guards don’t give a sh*t. They often don’t even bother stamping the correct date in your passport.
Hey Bren, Thanks for a great post! I’ve been in the Schengen countries for 83 days now and have 7 days remaining on the initial 90/180 day visa free travel for Kiwis. Thing is, I’m heading up to Hamburg soon and then planning to stay another week or 2 in Denmark before flying out of Copenhagen to the UK. This would mean that I’d be overstaying by a week or 2 on top of my 90day visa. However, according to your post and the Bilateral agreements that I’ve also found online, seems that it won’t be a problem as I can stay another 90 days in Denmark (and other Nordic countries). My questions is this: I’m going up to Copenhagen via bus or train from Hamburg. Do you know how they would validate my date of entry into Denmark? What do I need to do to tell the Immigration officer when I fly out of Copenhagen to ensure I don’t have any issues when departing the Schengen regions… Thoughts please 🙂
There is no border check – if you’re going by bus the driver will just drive straight through and if you’re on the train it’s the same. The best way to validate it is to keep a copy of your bus/train ticket. They shouldn’t be so strict about it, as long you make an effort to keep some kind of record.
We are in Europe now, travelling on the Visa Waiver Agreements. We thought all was legit until we went over the border between Hungary & Croatia.
I notice that you didn’t have Hungary in your list, but they do have an Agreements, with slightly different rules to the rest. You have to leave the Schengen Area after your time in Hungary.
I contact all relevant embassies before leaving NZ as you did, including Hungary and received written confirmation the Agreements still exist (except Italy and Portugal as you found).
On crossing the border with all documents in hand, the Hungarian officials knew nothing of the Agreements and were not interested in my documents or written confirmations.
€100 fine for my wife and I.
Feel pretty pissed now, trying to contact the embassies again to arrange a refund.
If anyone is trying to attempt this, I’d suggest not leaving Schengen Area from Hungary.
That’s crazy, the fine for overstaying is much more than that and includes a ban on future entry. So it’s possible these guys were just hustling you for some change, especially because it’s a land border and those are often less policed. Airports are much safer and always will have officials around you can escalate to. Hopefully you got a receipt and the names of the officials? Otherwise it might be hard to prove anything.
Thanks for your reply. We paid our fine with MasterCard, so it’s unlikely the border officials pocketed anything themselves. I think they were just uninformed.
Yes, we kept the receipt (signed by us and them) and have forwarded this on to the Hungarian Embassy in Wellington. The Embassy have written back apologising for the border officials ignorance. They said the money may be hard to get back, but I’ve followed up again with pictures of the receipts so hopefully they’ll get to work.
I’ll let you know how we go?
Yes do come back and update us! I’m sure it will be helpful. I guess you can be lucky it was only 100. Some people have been charged in the thousands.
This has to be the best, clearest website dealing with this issue. Thank you. Thought I’d let you know what has just happened to us. My wife and I are both New Zealanders but I also have a British passport. 4 years ago we were fortunate enough to buy a house in France where we spend 6 months living…yeah nice, I can feel the reader resentment from here. Back then we contacted the French Embassy in Wellington re my wife living in France beyond the 3 month period. Their reply was because she was married to a British citizen she was allowed to stay longer on the basis of being married to an EU citizen. No problems until this year we discovered the rules have CHANGED!!!! On flying into England from France we were told by the ‘Ihatetheallblacksandwishallnewzealandersweredeported’ immigration guy at Stanstead airport that my wife has overstayed in France and wouldn’t be allowed back in. We explained the ‘spouse rule’ only to be smugly informed that its all changed and she will need to go back to NZ to get a ‘Free’ visa added to her passport! This revelation was confirmed by the ‘new team’ at the French embassy and suffice to say my wife has had to fly all the way back to Wellington to get that visa. The process takes roughly 3 weeks to get an interview to go through the relevant paperwork and then 4 weeks to process!!!! Moral of this story is always check with the relevant embassy in your home country at least 2 months before you leave what the latest rules are. In this changing, regulatory world it’s better to safe than sorry.
Hi Rick, can I contact you about this? I’m going through it at the moment!
Hi Bren, A lot of great info here. I am currently in Austria and looking at options to stay longer. At the moment I plan on staying until my 90 days are up (with the 90 day visa free option we have). My plan is to try and get a (study) residence visa for Austria but this will likely take quite awhile, so it looks like I will have to leave Austria while that is being processed. Do you know if I can possibly leave Austria for a short time and then come in again with the bilateral agreement? Thanks Adam
Hey Adam, I think you’ll need to leave for at least 90 days. The waivers allow you 90/180 days if you’ve used up your Schengen allotment, but either way you can’t spend over 90 days in one country without leaving. You could check with the embassy though.
Thanks again Bren, So my current plan is to leave Austria at the end of next month. Fly to the UK for several weeks and then go to Germany for 3 months. After this I intend to return to Austria. It will have been more than 90 days since I was in Austria so this should be fine as we have a bilateral agreement with Austria. Thoughts? Adam P.S Can I donate you a beer somehow?
Hey Adam, if you read the email from the Austrian embassy, it requires you to leave the Schengen area after 90 days in Austria – they interpret the waiver slightly differently. So going to Germany technically won’t work. You’ll need to go to a non-Schengen country – Bulgaria, Romania for example. Since it’s winter up there, maybe try Southeast Asia for 3 months 😉 Normally you could just risk the overstay, but because you’re after a visa I would try and stay legit. P.S. I have a donate page here, thanks!: http://www.brenontheroad.com/donate
Cheers Bren, about to give this a shot tomorrow, leaving via Zurich. If only I’d known this last year… left on day 90, could have spent another few months in Gran Canaria!
I emailed the Spanish embassy (as there is that link you provided for the Swiss situation and have been in the Canaries most of the time) and got this slightly longer reply:
As a NZ citizen you may stay in Spain without visa for up to 3 months regardless of the time you have spent in any other Schengen area countries.
You can even stay more than three months in any 6-month period, provided the continuous period is no longer than three months.
Lastly, if you do this, and although it may be a difficult thing to do with no border controls, be sure to get your passport stamped on the way out and also upon coming back, so the periods may be properly computed.
Oh wow, that’s pretty cool. Spain rules! 🙂
Hi Bren, thanks so much for this information ???? My question is this … So if I spend 90 days in Switzerland then fly out from Zurich and into Germany for the next 90 days, does that mean that the 180 day period for Switzerland is over and I can now re-enter Switzerland for a further 90 days …. if this is so then travel in Europe could go on for a long time … Look forward to your comments ????
Technically yes this is how it should work, although it could be an ordeal explaining that to a customs officer. Technically you can stay indefinitely, if you keep switching countries every 90 days.
Thanks very much Bren ????
Looks like I might have to move to Germany (close to the Austrian border) to be able to do what I want. Damn Austria having slightly different rules. Not easy, when my gf is from Vienna and has another year of studies.
Ok. Update. Made it through Swiss customs but it was not fun. Taken to the control room. Made to show all evidence of travel them left waiting for ages. But am through!! Five months!
Damn. I left through Zurich and it was completely painless. Customs guy stamped me through in less than a minute. Just goes to show it really is luck of the draw. However at least they let you through! I’m not so concerned with them cross checking all my travel, as long as they know the laws!
I recently tested this in both Switzerland and France with no trouble.
My bus from Chamonix (France) to Geneva (Switzerland) got stopped by immigration and the Swiss officer spent a long time flicking through my passport but didn’t say anything even though I’d been in the Schengen Zone for four months already.
On leaving France on the Dieppe-Newhaven ferry they didn’t say anything about it after five months in the Schengen Zone.
Thanks for the very detailed post Bren! Really useful and I refer people to it when trying to explain the whole situation.
Good to know. The Swiss seem to be on top of their laws (which is no surprise). Seems to be a good bet leaving from there if you’re using the waivers.
Hi Bren, I’ve got a slightly different scenario. I’m a Kiwi with Australian dual nationality and, came to Europe on an Australian passport. (My original plan to stay 6 months was to do 3 in the schengen and 3 in the Balkans).
However, I then unfortunately only found out about the NZ waivers after coming to Europe on my Australian passport. I’ve since managed to acquire an NZ passport. My plan currently is to swap passports by flying into a non schengen country (in order to exit with the Aus passport and enter Europe on the NZ passport). However, I’m a little wary of how to best handle immigration officers from wherever I fly out of and, random border crossing checks, who may think I’m attempting to double dip the system- which isn’t at all my intention as I am a legitimate NZ passport holder and, thus applicable to the waivers. This is entirely legal however, I don’t think it look good. I would’ve originally come on an NZ passport had I known about the waivers and it’s just very unfortunate I hadn’t read your article prior to leaving.
What would be your opinion/advice on how to best handle this and, in particular handle border checks?
Assuming you exit on your Australian, then enter your first non-Schengen country on your New Zealand, I think it should be fine. It’s not illegal to travel with two passports. Even if they question you, just say you prefer to travel on your New Zealand, this wouldn’t be an offense they could fine you for. Besides the non-Schengen countries are highly unlikely to care.
Hi Bren! Thanks so much for your quick response. I ended up exiting the schengen on the AUS passport as I figured that if the first stamp in my NZ passport was a land crossing that might immediately raise questions I could avoid. I’m currently out of the schengen but am going to fly into Rome and change to my NZ passport there, where I’ll hopefully not have any trouble with a blank passport.
Nice bro, let us know if it all goes smooth!
Was totally successful!
I have been in the Schengen region for around 70 days and then will have spent just over 2 months outside the Schengen region. However, I will be in the Schengen region again for around 30 days before I fly out of Berlin, Germany. So I will have spent more than 90 days in the Schengen region, however with the bilateral visa waiver agreements I should be fine as I spent a few weeks in France and in Spain and other places. The thing is that I kept a receipt or something from almost every day in those countries except they are not always accommodation receipts, they are just random receipts from supermarkets and other things, although I still have my bus receipts I think. Do you think that would be enough evidence to show to the Germans at the airport in case there are any problems, along with the relevant embassy emails?
Thanks so much!
(I read some people in the above comments having problems in Switzerland and Hungary which is stressing me out a bit so am hoping it will be fine…)
Hey Jake, obviously nothing is for certain but I think you should be okay. Germany is strict as is Switzerland but that can work in your favour as they actually know the rules a lot of the time. As long as your dates check out, you shouldn’t have any (major) trouble.
Hi Bren, Thanks so much for your great post and taking the time to reply to us fellow kiwis, im sure youve saved alot of people headaches while travelling :).
I am currently in Slovenia, my first stop in europe was Germany then travelled to Spain and France (bilateral friendly) for around 2-3 weeks in total before heading to Italy and other non bilateral friendly countries. My current count is around 95 days for the entire Schengen Zone (including bilateral friendly countries i.e. Germany, Spain, France). I am wanting to fly to the UK within the next week which will bring my total up to circa 100 days in entire Schengen. As per Bilateral agreemnts i understand i can write off the time spent in Germany, Spain and France against my schengen total which would bring it to down to circa 80 days. Just looking for advice as to whether you think its fine to fly out of Slovenia, or would you advise to get the bus up to Germany or Austria and flying out of there. Havent read anyone flying out of Slovenia so not sure what their stance is on the bilateral waivers. Would prefer a direct flight from Slovenia but not if it comes with a fine :/.
thanks so much again for your post and reply.
You should definitely NOT fly out of Slovenia because you have already been in the region for +90 days, technically you shouldn’t be in Slovenia right now. Austria might be okay, but I think technically you’re still in breach there as well. Germany is your best bet (well probably Spain or France is your best bet really, but in practical terms I’d try Germany). In Germany they ‘might’ still ping you anyway because you’re not meant to be in Slovenia, but that’s none of their business really. It will only be a problem if you get a real asshole customs officer. I would definitely leave from Germany.
Hi Bren, Thanks alot for your advice! i will definately try Germany or maybe France (depending on connections). The way i understand it the time i spent at the start of my trip in Germany, Spain and France do not count towards my Schengen time. If my interpreation is correct i am under the 90 day threshold. I guess it depends on the customs official interpretation. I will let everyone know how i go. Thanks again!
They don’t count towards your Schengen time if you’re in waiver countries, but Slovenia doesn’t recognise the waivers. So as far as Slovenia is concerned you’ve been in Schengen +90 days and you’re an overstayer. If you try leave from a waiver country I’d guess you’d be okay, but keep your fingers crossed 😉
Hey Bren, some feedback for other travellers. I got the bus to Germany and got passport checked at the German border. Came back and handed my passport back didn’t appear to be any issues. Flying out of Munich had a young German officer, was a few questions but let through with limited hassle. Stayed a total of 150 days in europe, Thanks heaps for the advice and great post, has helped alot of us out.
Awesome news. Germany and Switzerland seem to be the countries most on top of the NZ waiver law. Nice to know it all worked out.
This is an extremely helpful article and helped me get my A into G by emailing embassies, so thank you.
I was just wondering if you have heard from anyone whether it was difficult leaving the schemes area from Luxemborg?
Many thanks, Hannah
None that I know of sorry! It’s not the most popular country to visit really 🙂
I hold an NZ passport. I arrived in Paris in May 2017, walked from France to Switzerland, Austria into Germany, without anybody asking me anything. After more than 4 months in the Schengen zone, I took a bus in September 2017 from Munchen to Zagreb and Belgrade (Serbia). They did not ask any questions at the border. Then I took a train to Sofie in Bulgaria. Absolutely no problem. I had all my embassy emails ready, but nobody asked for them. I would recommend travelling overland though, rather than an airplane.
Hah! I find land border officials are way more lax, especially because security is much less of an issue there. At airports everybody is on edge.
Love your posts…am travelling around Europe at the moment. Ibwould live to read all the feedback as they are extremely helpful but I can’t read the comments as they are not fitting on my phone screen…any help as to make it fit??? And no it won’t change if I use my fingers to slide it smaller!
That is strange…You might need to try using a computer. Or try a different browser…I’m really not sure sorry! What phone are you using?
I’m using a samsung j5. I also got my friend to try it on his and the comments didn’t fit on his either and he has a good phone. I tried another browser but still no luck. Would really love to read them all as they’re very relevant to me at the moment. Even writi g this comment it goes off the screen. Love the blog it’s so incredibly helpful.
Actually yes I just tested it and I see what you mean now. I will get it fixed – thanks for telling me!
Thanks Bren. .hopefully you can alter it to fit properly because it would be great to read all the comments clearly. Am waiting for replies now from different European consulates so will be able to share their replies if there are any changes.
Hi Bren! So I am in Europe and I have a flight booked from Warsaw to London in a few weeks. So in the 180 days leading up to the flight, I will have spent 82 days outside of the Schengen zone, and 98 days inside, however I spent 29 of those days inside in countries with bilateral visa waiver agreements. Do you think it will still be fine to fly out of Poland, as we don’t have a bilateral agreement with them? I have email evidence from the embassies for the relevant countries with bilateral agreements, so do you think that is enough in case I have any problems? I didn’t really think about it when I was booking the flight as when I flew out of and into Germany there were no problems.
You’re not actually supposed to be in Poland right now, because you’ve already exceeded your 90 days. So it could be a problem. Once you’ve exceeded 90 days you need to stay in waiver countries. As far as Poland is concerned you’re an overstayer. Your best bet is to catch a bus to Germany and fly from there.
Hi, I flew from Warsaw to London a week ago after being in the Schengen zone for nearly 6 months. They definitely picked up on this and initially weren’t that happy about it, but finally after a lot of explaining they were satisfied with the bilateral waiver agreements we have with Spain & Germany in my case, and I got through without the overstayer stamp.
I’d definitely confirm the agreement with the respective embassies and print out this correspondence to show them, this was key. Also give yourself plenty of time at the airport as it took me an hour to get through this gate.
You should be fine though.
Phew, they technically could have pinged you, as you’re not supposed to be in Poland after your 90 days as it’s not a waiver country. But since you were obviously well prepared I think they gave you the benefit of the doubt. The Polish customs officers are very unlikely to know anything about the waiver laws, so if you had all your correspondence I can imagine they’d just look at it and let you through. Nice work!
Wow, that is lucky then. Thanks for all the great info by the way mate. I don’t think I would have been so well prepared without it!
Been are you having any luck adjusting the settings on you website so the comments fit and show clearly? The blog fits perfectly it’s just the comments.
I have no idea how to do it, I have my developer working on it. Until then I’d suggest maybe trying to get access to a computer to view them…so sorry!!
Hi Bren.. I know I’m sounding like a broken record!!! Is your developer still working on your site?? Why is it so difficult to make comments fit. Showed your site to a couple of travellers from NZ I met but their phones were smaller than mine and they had worse trouble reading the comments. Such a great site and great advice and a shame to not be able to read everything.
Yes they are looking at it. It’s not something I can fix from the front-end otherwise I would have done it myself already. It’s something with the coding which I’m not well versed in. For now it needs to be viewed on a laptop, sorry!
Mia – finally managed to fix it. Hope it’s working now 😀
Has anyone recently written to the Czech Republic..just wondering if NZ has a bi lateral waiver with them. Thanks for any help.
Hi Mia, no we do not have a waiver with the Czech Republic and there are no comments about it yet. By the way all the information in the article is up-to-date, it says clearly there that Czech Republic isn’t included in the waiver countries. Is there something specific you’re looking for in the comments? Let me know.
Thanks for your replies. It was possible work in Prague so was work I g out times I could go there. I’m in North Cypress at the moment and have a opportunity in Greece. Their consulate letter sounds complicated and I got the same one back from them. So can you tell me if I arrived in Finland September 18th just over two months there then came to North Cyprus which is non schengen 6 weeks and then I go into Greece for around 9 weeks until March 18th…can I then go to Italy which doesn’t have a waiver with us but it will be the start of a fresh 6 months.And does Greece actually recognise our waiver. It sounds like they do but am I missing something in that complicated letter. Hope this letter is clear as I can’t see all that I’m typing due to the screen configuration on my phone. Thanks again for your help.
Thanks, Bren, for this information and all the comments. I plan later in 2018 to enter Italy and leave again from Italy after about two months, spend two weeks in the USA, then fly back this time to France and leave again from France after a further two months. Is this within the regulations as usually interpreted? Thanks. Justin
Yep! You “shouldn’t” have any problems. France recognises the waivers and they’re pretty lax anyway.
Thanks, Bren, and Happy New Year. Justin
Hi Bren.. fantastic, the site is working really well..yayyy!!!! My travels aren’t working out so well though. Decided at the last minute to go the UK as i got a great housesitting opportunity. When they asked at border control what I was doing I said I was Housesitting. I was locked up for 28 hours questioned etc and returned back to Cyprus as Housesitting is considered illegal work even though I wasn’t getting paid for it..wow that was a shock. I have no criminal record, don’t look menacing or dangerous and the 3 security guards who looked after me were totally shocked also….so much for the UK being a safe non schengen haven. I didn’t have a clear itinerary and they believed I was there for work. Can someone give me advice.. Want do we say when questioned if we have no definite plans, and we are just there to visit and don’t have close friends or family in a particular country. They said because I didn’t have family there I didn’t appear to have a valid reason for travel. I said i was having an adventure and always meet people along the way … what else do you say…look forward to some tips????…thanks in advance.
Housesitting can be a grey area, as getting stuff for free (accommodation/food) can be considered payment. If they question you, just say you are on a trip around the world and you are backpacking, you will be staying in hostels etc. Which is true for me anyway! This is also common enough nowadays and most people know somebody who has done an extended trip around the world. Also it helps to have the name of a hostel you are going to – even if you’re not booked in, you can just say you’re going to walk-in. That’s pretty normal too. I always suggest having a print-out of a bank statement or at least have a few credit cards on you – so you can show you have enough funds to survive without work.
It was definitely the house-sitting that got you “deported”. I’ve been through many customs checkpoints and said I’m travelling around the world with no plans, never been a problem, including in the UK.
Thanks Bren..will be much more prepared next time. The UK is obviously very strict.
Hi Bren, great site, appreciated that this has been put together. I have a question for you or anyone else on the thread that may have some insight. I’ve read a lot on here about which countries are best to fly out of once you’ve passed the 90 day mark in the Schegen region, and are then relying on the bilateral visa agreements and the grace of the immigration official you luck on to leave without issue, but I have seen little mentioned about which countries are best when flying back into the Schegen zone with more than 90 days under your belt already. I’m currently in Morocco, and need to fly back in the next couple days, I had already prior been in the Schengen zone for 100 days. Ideally I’d fly into Germany for my ends, but I’m wondering if Spain or France are better options given their general reputation for being relaxed and often not even checking your current count, where as Germany almost certainly would. This to me seems in someways trickier than leaving, as you can essentially be turned away and deported if things go south.
There is a complication to this as well. Leaving France a few days ago to come to Morocco I was actually questioned about my 100 days stay, I explained to them the bilateral agreements, and even had official documents from the French embassy confirming and detailing the agreements, but even after phone calls were made they came back to me saying I was subject to the same conventional 90 Schegen regulations as everyone else and that was the end of it. It was just bad luck I guess, I left from a small airport with only two very young immigration officials on the job. I was not fined, and they did not put an ugly deported stamp in my passport, but I have no idea if this was logged on any kind of a system. If so, even if flying into a bilateral agreement adhering country, I’m probably going to get grilled more than usual, and I’m now nervous my supporting documents, which are limited to flights between various bilateral agreement countries, could potentialy not be considered enough under the level of suspicion and interrogation a red cross next to my name on the system might bring.
Insight on this from anyone would be appreciated, Thanks!
In some ways flying into a country like Germany and Switzerland is beneficial, because they are such sticklers for rules and once they see that you’re within the rules with your waivers, they let you go without issue. Like I said I left from Switzerland and he recognised my passport and seemed to know the rules already, since I clearly said I entered in June, and it was November when I left. He waved me right through. Obviously it’s up to you, but I think Germany isn’t a bad bet (as long as you haven’t been there in the last 90 days).
Thanks for the quick response Bren. Yes I’m thinking Germany might be the way to go, we’ll see how this pans out. One thing though, you note its not a bad bet, “as long as you haven’t been there in the last 90 days”. Do you perhaps mean ‘for* the last 90 days’. I was in Berlin for 4 days about a month ago, but as far as I understand that means I’m still entitled 86 days of the full additional 90 days the bilateral agreement provides, or am I missing something here…. do these bilateral agreement 90 days need to be consecutive once I start using them?
Thanks for your time.
I can’t say for sure, but I think you’re allowed another 86. It’s 90 within any 180 day period.
A long over due update on this. Flew into Germany with the no issues or questioning whatsoever. They took the time to check the passport, but didn’t inquire further.
Excellent news. Germans are sticklers for rules so I’m not surprised. Thanks for reporting back!
We flew into Germany June 2nd and were told we couldn’t stay more than 90 days. As you can imagine I was concerned as I knew nothing about this. Have subsequently read everything on this site and will be keeping all docs and getting a reply to my email. We fly out mid November after touring Northern Europe and Scandinavia so will see what eventuates. We will be prepared and will let you know.
Great, enjoy your trip and please report back!
In an earlier post someone got a reply back from the Spanish Consulate saying that New Zealanders can actually stay longer then the 90 days if they leave and come back could be worth reading up further. They didn’t however say that in the letter I received from them a few weeks ago. But could be with checking if it helps you on your travels.. let us know if it does.
To clarify, most of my 90 days was spent in Greece
I’m surprised that France didn’t honour or recognise the bilateral waiver. I only have just heard back in the last few days from the French consulate saying that they recognise our New Zealand bilateral waiver and New Zealanders are welcome to visit and it will be honoured.
Bren when you say to them that you are travelling the world do you also have a ticket that takes you out of that particular country to another one and do you have a return back to New Zealand in the future to show them. Sounds like you have had amazing travels and for the most part of it hassle free.
Very rarely do I have a return ticket, usually if they ask I’ll tell them a vague plan – “I’m catching the train to Sweden in a couple of weeks” – something like that. As long as you don’t come off as super shady it seems to be satisfactory. Their job is to make sure nobody stays in the country and works illegally, if you can satisfy them that this is the case with you, you should be okay in most places.
You should be knighted for writing this article! Well researched and well written!
I agree 🙂 Thank you so much. It’s benefiting my family already as we have hopped about Europe. Very grateful.
HI Bren, excellent article/resource! My question is this: do you think it would be possible to just hop back and forth between Germany, Spain and France for a year – like stay in Germany for three months, then Spain for three months, then France for three months, then repeat, etc? You wouldn’t be leaving Schengen, but at least you would be out of each country after 90 days and you would be staying in countries that honor the bilateral agreements. Technically this seems to fall within the rules, does it not?
Yes technically the rules allow you to stay in Europe indefinitely, as long as you change country every 3 months. You may have a hard time explaining that to customs officials – I would triple check with the embassies just so you have it all in writing. But technically this is legal.
Thank you, Bren, for helping clarify a very confusing picture re the standard Schengen visa waiver vs bilateral agreement arrangements in the Schengen zone. We have been wintering over in Spain (lovely mild Tarifa) since late October 2017, having exited then re-entered Spain to start the 90-day clock again. Planning to fly to Greece in April and, like you, have not received an answer from the Greek Consulate confirming bilateral waiver arrangements. Oh well, if I understand correctly, flying from Spain into another Schengen country like Greece should not present any problems going in. However, when we cross the border from Greece into Albania, i.e. leaving the Schengen area, we are a tad anxious about Greek border checks, especially without prior written confirmation of the bilateral agreement from their consulate. Also worried that, although we’d wanted to travel through Austria and Slovenia, it sounds like we’ll have to bypass them both and maybe fly directly from Croatia to Germany missing out a large chunk of our plans. Such a shame: we so desperately wanted to see Slovenia, Czech Republic, Hungary etc. We’re also checking with Croatia consulate as I understand they are making moves to join the Schengen zone but hopefully, that will happen after we’ve been and gone. Presumably, Croatia does not have a bilateral agreement with NZ so Schengen zone 90/180 restrictions will apply once they join. Anyway, thanks again for your invaluable advice. Us Kiwis are lucky to have your expertise and experience and your great eye for detail! 🙂
Yes exiting from Greece might be problematic, but I really don’t know, I have never been. Whatever you choose, best of luck and do come back and report your experience if you can!
Hi Bren. As promised, I am providing an update for you and your readers regarding exiting the Schengen Zone from Greece after staying way longer than 90 days in Spain since October 2017 broken into 2 periods of less than 90 days. We were very worried about being accused of overstaying in Europe when we eventually exited the external border of the Schengen Zone which in our case was going to be Greece, We exited Greece and the Schengen Zone about a week ago after a stay there of 5 weeks and a stay in the Schengen Zone of 7 months total. Here’s our story! We had checked with the Greek Embassy in Wellington well before we flew from Spain to Greece on April 5th. They told us by email exactly what was in Sam’s comment here dated August 1, 2017: we received exactly that same advice!) that when we enter Greece, we need to get our entry to Greece registered at the border by having our passport stamped on entry. Further, they advised us that we needed to advise officials on arrival in Greece of our intention to enter Greece under the bilateral visa waiver agreement between NZ and Greece as opposed to the entering under the overall Schengen Agreement. Well, what a laugh. The flight from Spain (Barcelona) to Athens Airport is, of course, an internal Schengen Zone flight so there were no officials on the ground to discuss these issues with in the normal channels of entry via Athens Airport. I did manage to seek out an official in his reeking-of-cigarette-smoke office: he seemed more interested in applying aloe vera to his burn than in my plight! As to my request for a stamp in my NZ passport, he said he did not possess a stamp: they do not exist! Furthermore, he seemed blissfully unaware of complex Schengen Zone arrangements for New Zealanders. Faced with this indifference and the words “in good faith despite my efforts” repeating in my brain, and unable to tolerate the heavy stench of cigarette smoke any longer, we entered Greece without doing either of the 2 very things we were advised to do by the Greek Embassy. When D-day (Departure Day from Greece after 5 weeks there) arrived last week, we arrived extra early in case of hours of interrogation. We arrived armed with boarding passes, itineraries, evidence of stays and of all our travels ready to produce in evidence (your apt Ally McBeal analogy comes to mind, Bren! haha). I had many a sleepless night, visions of 1,000 Euro fines, bans from the Schengen Zone for years, missing our flight while being interrogated, etc, the moment of truth arrived. The Border Guard looked at our passports, and after a few seconds said “Enjoy your flight” and waved us through. Wow! What an anti-climax! It made a mockery of the policing of the external border of the Schengen zone and the enforcement of the Schengen rules! Not that I’m complaining: it worked to our advantage. Perhaps they enforce it erratically? I’d hate a fellow Kiwi NOT be prepared with evidence of travel movements and then get interrogated, fined, banned, etc. And so here we are relaxing in beautiful Dubrovnik, Croatia…2 very relieved Kiwis pondering what could have been and the state of confusion and uncertainty surrounding travelling on a NZ passport in Europe!
This is great news, so glad you got out okay. I think when it comes to Greece, they are probably the country that has been hit hardest with the influx of refugees and it has just overwhelmed their immigration personnel. I think the last thing they are worried about are a couple of friendly New Zealanders overstaying a Schengen visa, which is really inconsequential and probably happens all the time anyway. Of course, always best to be prepared as you were. Nice one.
The Greek consulate told me that NZ didn’t have a waiver with them.
Hi and well done on this resource. We’re planning to travel as follows and in this order… 39 days Greece 11 Italy 11 Denmark 23 France 27 Italy (again) 15 Switzerland (12 Uk) 10 Spain 35 France again then exiting This is 77 in Schengen with the rest under bilaterals I think! What’s your view?? Many thanks and very grateful
Just double check with the embassies and you “should” be okay if you leave from France.
Hi and thank YOU. Will now actually exit from Geneva Switzerland but from earlier insertions this should be as good as France.
Both Italy and Portugal embassies have said no as you already noted on this site. The crunch will come after a few days in Italy the second time when we go past 90 days in Schengen. At that stage would I maintain that of the period 40 of the days in Denmark and France were under bilaterals, having receipts etc to support it? Thank you again
Yep, I’d say your chances are good.
….should have added I’m travelling on a NZ Passport
……any clues??
Thanks Brendan For your huge articile Great work & most helpful . Cheers Sailorboy
Hi Bren. Great article – have enjoyed reading both the initial information and the comments. I have a query. We’re heading over to the UK shortly to purchase a motorhome which we’ll bring back to NZ. We plan to travel in the UK and EU for six months (May to November). Our plan is to head to Ireland, then take the Ferry from Ireland to France, and then travel down into Spain and Portugal as Autumn hits, returning through Spain and France to the UK where we will export the motorhome. My question is – are the three months (90 days) in both France and Spain, under the bi-lateral agreements, cumulative? For example, if we spent 20 days in France on our way travelling down to Spain, can we then spend, in theory, a further say 70 days in France on the way back – as long as we can prove that we stayed in France no longer than 90 days in total? Some of the comments/queries above refer to this but I couldn’t find a definitive answer on it. We also want to go to Portugal but from what you have said above, we’ll need to be careful that we enter and exit Portugal within the first 90 days. Thank you.
As far as I know it’s 90 days in a 180 day period. So what you’re describing should be okay. Best to double check with the embassy though!
Can you please confirm if you think my travels will be okay? I am arriving in London on 29th May and travelling as per below. London: 4 days Netherlands: 3 days Spain: 21 days Croatia: 13 days London: 1 day Contiki: 18 days-1 -2 days in each( London, Amsterdam , Berlin, Prague, Munich, Austrian Tyrol, Venice, Rome, Florence, Swiss Alps, Paris) Belgium: 5 Days Italy: 21 days Greece: 35 days Spain: 7 days (TBC) I am planning to leave back to NZ the last week of September or first week of October (around 4 months) Can you please advise if you will think it will be okay to fly out of Greece to NZ or Spain to NZ( Still trying to decide) or from Greece to London to NZ?
Hi Delphi everything I can tell you is already written in the article. I’d email the Greek and Spanish embassies and double check.
Last year we stayed for 7 months in the schengen zone entering at Nice airport and departing from Barcelona Airport. We had our embassy emails ready and a few receipts to show our movements but they were not needed. On exit the immigration officers in Spain checked the NZ passports for entry stamps to the schengen zone and my husband’s passport had been stamped entering but mine wasn’t. I explained that the French officials had only stamped one passport and they let us through, but they were not happy about the lack of stamp. This year we will be in the schengen zone again for 6 months using similar entry and exit strategies and we will be insisting on the stamp. I often read this thread to read about the schengen waiver experiences of other kiwi travelers. Please keep feeding back and thanks again to Bren for paving the way.
Legend. Thanks for the thourough write up. Is there a link to this short-stay visa waiver bilaterial agreement for kiwis online that we can read and download or print that you know of? There must be one somewhere? Thanks again chamo ????
Hi Bren, this post has been so helpful! Perhaps someone can help me be a bit more confident in my travel plans. I will be spending 88 days in the Schengen zone (38 of those are in France) and will leave to come back to NZ from France. My fear is that I am returning to France about a month later for 25 days. I know that time in France doesn’t add up to 90 days but I’m still nervous immigration might question me around this. I have emailed the consulate and they confirmed the bilateral agreement is in place but the decision is up to the immigration officer (that made me nervous) would you advise that I just have a lorn of documentation to prove where I have been and for how long? Any help is appreciated!
If you can show the emails from the embassy then the immigration officer should only be concerned about how much time you’ve spent in France and not anywhere else. If you have all those documents I think you should be fine.
Awesome article, Bren! Thanks.
I’m currently only a Resident of New Zealand, so I guess none of this apply to me at the moment? We’re planning to visit Greece soon – guess I’ll have to go the Schengen Route …for now. Fingers crossed these lovely agreements remain in force for many years to come!
Yup all that matters is your passport, residency is irrelevant.
P.S. I’m a resident at the moment, as in I have a Residence Visa. Once I’ve lived in NZ for long enough, I’ll be able to become a citizen. Just to clarify.
Hi Bren. Just wanted to say thank you so much for this – this is absolutely fantastic!
Thanks for your reply Bren. You’re amazing. I hope good things are coming your way from all the work you put into this!
Hi Bren, I am flying out of Hungary mid August and would have spent 100 days in the Schengen zone by this date. Originally I had a flight back to the UK but have now changed this to France, as then I’ll still be in the Schengen zone and won’t have to go through border control… Is that the case? Or will they still check my NZ passport at the airport if I’m flying within the Schengen zone?
Thought that it would be easier to leave Europe and back to the UK via a country that honours the bilateral agreement, which France does.
If my passport is going to be checked when flying out of Hungary, perhaps I would be best to train/bus to France instead?
I’ve never been to Hungary but it is very rare for them to do Schengen passport checks within the zone. You’d be extremely unlucky to get caught there.
Hi Bren, another query for you or anyone one else with insight. Convincing uninformed immigration officials aside on the bilateral visa agreements, what about airlines? Most airlines are fine, but Ryain air has a policy that requires an onward flight on or before the expiry of the Shengan 90 days, to allow you on board. I’ve been question before by them on this, but that time I was within the initial 90 days. I fly to Spain on the 90th day of my last stamp showing when I arrived, I wonder if they see this whether they will assume I need an onward flight that same day from Spain out of the Shengan zone… I imagine they are extremely clueless about the bilateral agreements, even more so than some immigration officials, and wont buy the explanation.
Interesting – haven’t thought about that one. I’ve never been asked for a onward flight ticket when entering Europe. Maybe someone else can speak on it.
Awesome post, I don’t think 90 days in Europe is enough for many travellers. I spent 20 months travelling around Europe, didn’t realise Portugal and Italy no longer honour it…Opps I exited twice, first time flew Portugal to the UK via Madrid stopover where they stamped me out….lol Final exit via Hungary/Croatia border on the Train September 2016, but emailed the consulate first to double check, two border officers, one wasn’t familiar with the rule the other was.
Hi Bren, Very interesting and informative website. I just wanted to ask whether there is any exception made for NZ passport holders cruising on a yacht, because it isn’t always practical to leave a country within 90 days due to seasonality of weather! We are currently in Turkey and have to leave here by mid June. We plan to sail to Rhodes (Greece) which is only 45 miles from where we are but then could only spend 90 days which would take us to autumn and the weather situation would be deteriorating. It is also not practical probably to sail west during the Med. summer because of the extreme likelihood of adverse and very strong Meltemi winds. We could leave the yacht in Rhodes and then go to another Shengen country where we could stay for 90 days, but as I understand it, we still could not return to Greece until the expiration of a total of 180 days. So, we’d have to spend another 90 days somewhere else. It’s not good to leave a yacht unused and unoccupied for 6 months but fortunately my partner has a U.K. passport so she could come back to Rhodes to check on the boat – however I couldn’t – again as I understand it. Can you please comment. Many thanks – much appreciated.
Because the law in Greece is not really clear for NZers, it would be best to go to a non Schengen country for 90 days and then you can return to Greece. Somewhere like Bulgaria, Romania, Poland etc. That’s a beautiful part of Europe in August, so it’s not all bad 🙂
Hi Ben Thanks for your reply. However, none of the countries you mention are easily accessible by yacht unless we voyage to the Black or Baltic Seas with all the attendant bureaucracy!! Both of them are a long way from Fethiye. We’ve decided to take out temporary residency in Turkey and stay here until March 2019 when we will sail – before the Meltemi starts again. Then we should make Sicily via Greece and Malta by September. We would then leave for the worst of the European winter for Medellin, Colombia where we have an apartment. The boat can stay in Sicily for a few more months and then we’d go to Tunisia to re-set the clock. Always assuming that we still own the boat which is on the market. Thanks again for your suggestion. Cheers, Jim Donald
Sounds like quite the adventure. Have fun!
You need to get stamped out of the EU on your passport if you are on a yacht. The local port authorities should be able to do this for you. You need to search out immigration at the port where you are leaving and write to them and ask. it also depends on the flag of the boat, however. And again, it doesn’t matter if you are on a nz passport as you don’t have the same time restrictions, so long as you can prove where you left from etc. The captain of the yacht should be able to help you with this, but if they can’t, then follow the advice I gave above. However, being so technical and correct has not helped me as I went to the UK after and they thought I was trying to beat the system. Depends on your immigration officer. But just be up front and write to the port immigration from whichever EU country you leave from. Good luck!
This is such a great post and has really come in handy with planning my trip. Do you happen to know how it works if your 180 days resets while you’re in the Schengen area? Eg I’ve been living in the UK and have taken a few trips to the Schengen area totalling 20 days over a few months. I’m planning on now taking an extended trip to Europe. When I head back, it’ll have been about a month shy of 180 days since I first entered the Schengen area. As I have 70 days of my 90 left, I’m fine for that month. Could I then stay another 90 days as my 180 days would have reset? I haven’t come across any info about this online so hoping you or another reader have!
Thanks Hannah
Hi Hannah, I’m not 100% sure if I understand you correctly, but my understanding of the rule is the 180 day period is rolling, so it’s 90 days out of the last 180 at any point in time. If that makes sense.
Bren your a legend. I am 2 and a bit months into 6 months traveling around Europe and have only just found out about this whole schengen thing! After of hours of reading and confusion, I have found your website and it all makes so much more sense. Still not sure what I will do but feel like I understand my situation much better now! Thank you!!!
Hey Bren Great post, you’ve probably had this asked before, but any help would be great.
I’m on a German Working Holiday Visa which ends next Wednesday, I’m trying to figure out if I have to leave Shengen or if I can travel to say Denmark and move to the 90 days of their bilateral agreement, or if I do in fact have to go somewhere like Bosnia, Croatia Or UK to reset my visa back to a tourist visa from the WHV? I can’t find this in writing anywhere
Any help would be much appreciated
Thanks Hamish
Hey Hamish it totally depends on what your travel plans are.
Might be interested in a slightly related story – a near horror story- some of which I can hardly remember as I hadn’t slept in 40 hours. After staying in the EU for not even 3 months total, dealing with a lot of laxed immigration officers and getting all my T’s crossed and i’s dotted- I was in and out of the schegen zone and had a variety of stamps in my passport-I made the mistake of going to Heathrow airport. I ran into a young guy around 30ish who raked me over for 30 minutes, questioning every detail of my plans. I’ll admit because I didn’t have a return ticket (last minute change of plans to my travels), i became an instant target. But I had the funds, the rough plans, the contacts, straight answers to his questions. But he wasn’t okay with it. He also was not okay with my lifestyle in general- I work in two countries during the year completely legally, but he didn’t like it. He had the audacity to tell me when he wanted me out of the EU by (not entirely sure if he is entitled to that) BUT stamped my passport in the end to let me through. However, he left me with a marker of my arrival card number on my passport and told me I would be in trouble of the rest of my life basically. He still let me through, but also left me very wary of any future plans. Conclusion: avoid Uk at all costs during your EU tours
I’d follow that up with the relevant offices. I hope you got his name. Luckily in the UK things are more or less by the book so you should be able to resolve it since you did nothing illegal.
After seven months finally made it out of Europe safely via France (caught the bus from Paris to London)…had a really nice customs officer just asked where I’d been, stamped my passport and away I went ; ) leaving London today from Gatwick …Hoping I will come across a nice customs officer again.
Hi Brendan,
Love your article. If it’s of any use to you or your readers, I emailed the French and Spanish embassies last week to confirm that the bilateral agreements remain in force. They confirmed that they did.
Hi Bren this is fantastic work you’ve done, you’ve really helped a lot of people out here but I have a couple of scenarios I was hoping you might be able to help me with.
Scenario 1: Stay in Germany for 90 days, then go to France for 90 days. Would it then be possible to go straight back to Germany for another 90 days? Effectively meaning New Zealanders could change between just two countries indefinitely provided they spent exactly 90 days in each?
Scenario 2: What’s preventing me from entering into Spain and then making my way to Germany where I will stay for 6 months, and then I would leave the Schengen area from there. Obviously this isn’t technically allowed but if the officials at border control are not really asking questions when New Zealanders go to leave the Schengen area then how would they know I’ve actually been in Germany for 6 months?
I’m guessing the risk of this is that I get an official that does ask questions and if I can’t prove that I’ve been elsewhere then I could be in a bit of trouble. But then I also thought that I could take a short trip to Switzerland and return to Germany sometime within 90 days of me leaving the Schengen area and then I could show a receipt that showed that I entered Germany less than 90 days before leaving. This would at least make it look like I’ve been there for less than 90 days even though I had actually been there for much longer.
What do you think the chances of me getting asked questions are? And then if I did get asked questions do you think having a receipt/ticket similar to the above scenario would be enough to make it legitimately look like I’ve been in Germany for less than 90 days, thus the officials would let me leave without penalty?
Technically you are allowed to go between the two countries like you describe for 90 days each, and stay indefinitely. Although whether the customs officers will actually accept that is another story. I’d get a confirmation from both embassies. As for the Germany situation, they are pretty strict on rules so they might dig into you, but it totally depends on the customs officer you get. My suggestion in that situation would be to just leave Schengen from elsewhere instead of Germany. Maybe Switzerland.
Cool thanks mate. I also hear that the immigration officials in Spain are pretty relaxed about things so maybe catching a flight to Spain and then departing the Schengen area from there would be a good idea if I end up spending too long somewhere.
Great info. Thanks!
Hi Bren. I am a New Zealander with an nz passport. I arrived in the uk on 24th April and my return ticket is for an 8th October flight home. I have based myself with a sister living in the uk. I walked for 88 days in France 9th May until 30th June. And Spain 1st July to 6th August. I returned to the uk. I had 2 days left I thought and didn’t know exercise the bilateral agreement re France and Sprain. Flew to Switzerland on 2nd September and returned to the uk on the 8th September: they let me through each time. Now I need to go to Hungary on the 2nd or 3rd October and return to the uk on the 6th September. I am thinking that I should drop into Croatia for a night then Budapest. Croatia is EU but not yet Schengen. Do you think one stop in Croatia will zero my time for Schengen. Are you able to give your thoughts please.
If you left France on June 30 you’ve already done 90 days outside Schengen, so you can re-enter.
I have looked over my original message and I didn’t make it clear enough and gave you some poor maths. I apologise.
I walked 89 days in total: arrived the 8th May in France and left 6th August from Spain having walked across the border.
8th May to 30th June in France Cluny to the Pyrenees; that is 54 days in France. Then Camino Frances from across the Pyrenees to Finisterre in Spain; 1st July to 6th August; makes 35 in Spain. As i flew out of Spain I asked the border police to be sure to stamp my exit from the EU, which they did saying “I had 2 days left anyway”.
I flew to Switzerland on the 2nd September ignorantly thinking that I was visiting a non-Schengen country. The Swiss border police mumbled that I had been in Schengen for “quite a lot of time”, I said that I was leaving in 6 days, which I did on the 8th September; however as I left border police mentioned Schengen again; I didn’t really respond thinking that I had re-zeroed my Schengen allowance according to my belief that NZ had a bilateral agreement for Schengen and Switzerland was not Schengen. Then somebody gave me a link to your blog and the penny dropped. Swirzerland IS in Schengen and I had been lucky not to be questioned more going into and then leaving Switzerland.
Now I need to go to Budapest in Hungary from 2nd October until the 6th October for an informal business meeting. I could get the people I am meeting to send an email which I can take in hard copy. Also, as I wrote above, I could stop over in Croatia for a night before entering Hungary which is on the non-bilateral-agreement list on your blog, and have my passport stamped there entering and then exiting a non-schengen country i.e. leaving schengen.
I apologise for the over-describing above. I think I under-informed you earlier or I didn’t understand your response.
All the best
Hello Bren, thank you for the comments on this site, it is very helpful. I have a question, if I came to Greece for 7 days on the 27th December 2018 and then I went to France for seven days does that start my 180 days? I would then return to NZ after France and would like to fly back to Greece around the end of April for 90 days, is this possible? Thank you
Great information here and better than anything I have been able to find in months! We are starting a trip in November 2018 when we collect a campervan in the UK and intend spending approx 6 months driving through Europe so not sure on how we can authenticate the country arrival/departure dates apart from ATM/receipts. But thanks to all this info, I am now armed with some email responses from various embassies. Fingers crossed we travel smoothly. Thanks Bren and everyone else with their contributions
We are about to do the same trip.
Did you have any issues driving around Europe for more then 4 months.
We only want to do France, Spain, Italy, and maybe Germany and then go back to the UK via France.
So we would enter and exit via France.
Hi Bren If I entered Germany on 3 September what do I need to do to be able to stay another 3 months on a NZ passport ??Please help ! My partners family live in Frankfurt and we are planning to fly back end of Feb 19
You can only spend 90 days total in Germany during that time, so you need to leave Germany to somewhere nearby, France Spain or Switz for example, and spend some time there. Make sure you don’t exceed 90 days in Germany and you should be okay.
Hi Brendan, I just wanted to say a big Thank You for keeping this blog up to date, I have been keeping an eye on it every few months for any changes as my partner is a New Zealander. It has helped numerous Kiwis on their travelling adventures, and I’m sure that you didn’t expect to still be answering questions a few years later.. But here is an interesting situation.. I am British born and also have a NZ passport, having emigrated more than 30yrs ago. This combination has been invaluable for travelling and working in Europe, as I’m sure it has been to many. But as no one really knows what is going to happen with Brexit, and the changes to the borders, come March 2019 I may have to start travelling on my NZ passport in Europe.. How bizarre (messed up) is that.. My partner refuses to visit the UK these days having heard so many terrible tales of woe at the airports.. Only time will tell, I will keep you informed as to what happens..for us once lucky Pommy dual passport holders..
I’m actually in the UK right now. I did get questioned a lot at the airport but nothing ridiculous.
Hi thanks a lot, I was freaking I would have to leave as I plan on about 5 months all up but I’m now confident enough to hit the non-agreements in first 90 days then germnay, Swiss, Austria etc for next 60 and as long as I leave from one of them should be fine. I was planning on leaving from Austria. I tried to get the french embassy to confirm I could spend extra time in all the bilateral countries and then fly out no problem but they were not comfortable putting that in writing as they said they can’t speak for other countries, I had linked that 2011 french embassy document that clearly said its fine but they didn’t budge. I’m guessing it will be fine, unless Austria shouldn’t be my choice? Was keen to Christmas in Salzburg and then fly home though
Hopefully it should work out fine, best of luck!
We have had confirmation from a direct email to Danish Consulate General – Wellington that the bilateral visa is still valid. Next week we will depart from Copenhagen to London after 6 months in the Schengen Zone. I also see that the Italian Embassy in New Zealand has recently changed the information on it’s website to ” The exchange of Notes signed on 25 January 1961 between Italy and New Zealand, entitles New Zealand citizens to stay in Italy without a visa for 90 more days irrespectively from other periods spent in other Schengen Countries.” That is certainly clearer and more favourable than the information they provided in the past. Thanks again Bren for maintaining this information and thanks to fellow travellers for sharing their experiences.
Italian embassy must have got sick of all our emails!
My understanding of the Italian situation is that you can stay for 180 continuous days, provided that you leave the Schengen area for 90 days at the end of the 180 day period. The information on the Embassy website states that you 'can' exit Italy to spend time in other Schengen countries (up to 90 days) but this does not seem to be a requirement. https:undefinedundefinedambwellington.esteri.itundefinedambasciata_wellingtonundefinedresourceundefineddocundefined2019undefined05undefinedbilateral_agreement.pdf
'The Embassy of Italy in New Zealand wishes to advise that: New Zealand Passport holders are allowed to travel to Italy and to stay in Italy for up to 180 days without having to apply for a visa, as long as their passport is valid for at least 3 months after the final departure date and as long as they do not engage in any kind of employment in Italy. The 180 days visa-free period is made of the standard 90 visa-free days in the Schengen area and an additional 90 visa-free days in Italy granted by the Bilateral agreement signed on 25 January 1961. … During the 180 visa-free period, NZ passport holders can exit Italy and spend time in other EU Schengen countries for a maximum of 90 days in total.
Awesome site thanks for the info, I keep finding more and more of your articles that are so helpful. In regards to this one – I’m currently living visa free in Berlin.. I will need to leave in 33 days in order to be under the 90 day rule – however I plan on staying until Christmas, travelling out of Germany for New Years and then back home to NZ out of Berlin.
If I were to buy a train ticket or flight out of Germany to show I left (without actually leaving) would this be proof enough that I didn’t overstay? Or would you suggest I buy return tickets and get proof of accomodation too? Cheers!
I really can’t give an answer for that, I’m not sure what their process is. Use your best judgement!
Thanks for this post! I’ve just completed a successful trip of just over 90 days. I flew out of Frankfurt so emailed the German embassy in Wellington about the agreement. They just sent me a link to their website, which now seems to mention the agreement specifically: see https://wellington.diplo.de/nz-en/service/-/2123002 .
I just thought this might be handy for anyone who isn’t doing anything overly complicated, is flying out of Germany, and does not have an email from the Embassy on the validity of the agreement.
Thanks again!
Awesome thanks!!
Hi Bren, hoping you can help me I’m getting rather stressed at the thought of deportation.. I’m a kiwi overstaying in Germany – I plan on flying to France, could be 1 month over my visa then, and then another flight to Spain from Germany in order to get home from there. (The other option is flying home from France, would that be too risky?)
My main question is; Will I get any stamps for these flights to France and to Spain out of Germany? Im concerned these flights will be recorded.
All those countries are visa waiver countries. So it shouldn’t be a problem. What is concerning you, exactly?
Thanks for your reply. The concern is that I’ll be stopped with no evidence I left Germany within the 90 days. Given That Switzerland is a visa waiver country flying there would be fine too? Cheers
I left from Switzerland after more than 90 days and they didn’t ask for anything. My feeling is that Germany won’t give you any problems, but if you want to be doubly safe you might just want to fly home from a different country. Take a look through the comments here and see where people have left from successfully after citing the waivers.
Hi Bren Thanks for that great information. I travel on a NZ passport and also like to live dangerously and worked in Greece (albeit for an English Co.) for more than 180 days in 1995. I sailed on my own yacht in 2006, leaving it there for over a year at a cost (maybe a fine?) of 500E. I now spend 160 days a year in Greece – for the last 3 years – without any problem. However, I noticed on exit last year that 2 customs officers checked my passport and made a point of making the exit stamp right beside the entry stamp. I assumed they could not be bothered with the hassle of further interrogation, but it did give me a fright.
Hi Bren – cheers for the post. I am looking to stay in Switzerland for as long as possible and have enquired as to whether I can stay for 90 days. Leave and travel Europe for 90+ days making use of the visa agreement countries and then return to switzerland for another 90 days. I have so far been unable to get a straight answer from the Swiss Consulate and thought someone here may have had a similar experience.
Hi Bren, great information thank you. We are travelling to Europe for 8 months this year. We will have been in Europe for 5 months (in countries we have a waiver with) before we need to get to Croatia. My issue is driving through Slovenia to get to Croatia as we don’t have a waiver with them and will have been in the Schengen area for 5 months.. Can we drive through Slovenia without staying overnight anywhere. I am concerned about trying to get through the Slovenia/Croatia border on the way in and on the way out. Originally we were going to ferry out of Croatia to Italy but I am now unsure if Italy recognise the waiver (even though it says on the Italian Embassy website that they do) so not sure what to do. Also, if Croatia do join the Schengen area before we get there in September, we would again be in trouble as we wont have a waiver with them. Our trip in Croatia has already been booked. Hate the fact that this is so dependent on who you might get at the border. Thanks for your help.
Since the Slovenia/Croatia border is a Schengen entry/exit point, you MIGHT run into some trouble there. I’ve never been to either so I can’t say for sure. EU road borders are usually unmanned though in my experience. If it were me I would probably go from Croatia to Hungary and cross into Slovenia from there, since we have a semi-waiver with them. But try and ask around and see how strict the border you intend on crossing is. Most borders you just drive straight through.
Thanks Bren, getting out of Croatia is not such a problem as we will catch the ferry to Italy armed with the visa waiver information and keeping our fingers crossed. It is getting into Croatia that is causing me a headache but I think we will go into Italy first and catch the ferry across. That will test the waiver agreement with Italy. Just to let others know that getting into Croatia from Hungary is not part of the visa waiver – you have to enter and leave Hungary via a non schengen country. So we can’t enter Hungary from Austria. This is the reply I have had from the Hungary Embassy although when I read it, it doesnt seem like a waiver at all. “If you would like to enter Hungary legally on the basis of the bilateral visa waiver agreement, you can do that if you meet ALL the criteria below:
you have to leave the Schengen area before entering Hungary (That is: you have to enter Hungary from outside the Schengen area) you do not leave Hungary to other Schengen countries during your stay in Hungary when you leave Hungary, you must go into a non-Schengen country (That is: at the end of your stay you must not directly go to another Schengen member state FROM Hungary!)
Please be aware, that the Bilateral Visa Waiver Agreement in force between Hungary and New Zealand does not override the Schengen area restriction of no more than 3 months out of a 6 month period in the Schengen area as a whole. This is the reason why you are required to enter Hungary from a non-Schengen member state and depart into a non-Schengen member state if you want to use the opportunity provided in the NZ-HU Bilateral Visa Waiver Agreement.”
Maybe this info will be of use to others.
We crossed from Slovenia into Croatia 5 days ago. We had a stressful 40 minutes with a border guard and his boss (every car was having documents checked on departure) where they would not accept that bilateral visa waivers applied to NZers. They just kept repeating the 90/180 rule. In the end, they stamped us out of the Schengen Area without the 500 euro fine they mentioned or any other obvious penalty (in their eyes we’d overstayed by about 2 weeks). So maybe we were starting to convince them…
Carolyn, if you haven’t travelled already, I think your plan to enter and leave Croatia by ferry from Italy is a good one! We got through, but it felt like it could easily have gone differently. Good luck!
PS: Thanks Bren, you’re a legend.
Dear Bren. You are the best. You should be knighted in the New Years honours. I discovered this thread a month into our 6 month trip to Europe. I knew of the bilaterals and wrongly assumed that they applied everywhere. Thanks to reading your post we quickly diverted from our original plan of going thru Scandinavia then down thru the Baltic States to Germany then home. A quick hard right turn saw us travel up thru the Baltic’s to Helsinki arriving 90 days after landing in Germany. Then reversing our trip and travelling thru Finland, Sweden, Norway down to Denmark and thru to Germany. No problems anywhere. The Finnish Customs agents were delightful on our arrival back from St Petersburg. ‘One of the best passports in the world” the young one said. Left from Frankfurt 176 days after entering thru Germany and I wasn’t even asked for all the receipts I’d kept! As everyone has said to me “But who would know if you went the other way?” My answer is “I would”. Must be old school. Hence the recommendation for your knighthood!
Bren, your site is the MOST helpful one I have come across re visa waiver issues for Kiwi’s. You have cleared up so many questions I had after trawling through the better known sites. Now I know exactly how to make the most of my gap year! Thank you so much for your time and dedication, most impressive. Regards, Barbara
Hi Bren. Awesome post! I’m a kiwi in Europe. Entered oct 30th 2018, have made a few trips to non Schengen countries so my 90/180 days will be up 25 Feb. I have spent loads of time in Belgium , with shorter trips to Netherlands, and loads of day trips to Germany. I’m wanting to be in Belgium from mid March til end of March and was planning to head to UK after my 90 days is up. But after hearing about the agreement Ive realised an extra month in Belgium is doable. I’ve emailed the Belgium embassy in NZ. They have advised from there understanding it does not matter whether during your 90/180 days if you have spent time in Belgium you can still use the agreement and stay 90 more on top. I’m a bit worried that’s not the case. What’s your thoughts on that. Also if I stay longer than 90 days in Schengen when entering UK are officers there going to give me greif for what looks like I’m overstaying in Schengen? Thanks heaps.
UK isn’t part of Schengen so it’s unrelated to them. Customs officers shouldn’t be checking it. If they do, just explain. If the Belgian embassy says it’s fine it’s fine. Print the email for when you exit.
Thank u. Also in regards to bilateral with NZ and Belgium. They have told me yes it is ok to have spent time in Belgium during my original 90 days and to make sure I am in Belgium the day my 90 expire to then start my 60. I’m just confused because many posts state ” you may stay in such n such country 2/3 months after spending 90 days in “other” Schengen states. I’m guessing if they have said it’s ok then it’s ok.
Have you any feed back about bilateral working or not working? Many thanks
Really not sure. If the embassy has said it’s okay that’s the closest you’re going to get to a confirmation that it’s okay.
in addition to previous comment about Finland. Here are official letter in regards to NZ and Finland 1973 bilateral agreement which still in force. https://www.treaties.mfat.govt.nz/search/details/t/2773/c_1 (you can download PDF on the page) According to given info, that agreement refers to dealing with Finland as member of Nordic Passport Union. “(b) New Zealand citizens, holding valid New Zealand passports who wish to stay in Finland for more than thre~ months after their entry into one of the countries party to the Convention between Finland, Denmark, Sweden and Norway dated July 12, 1957, regarding the abolition of Passport Control at InterNordic Boundaries, from a country not party to the said Convention, shall apply for a residence pennit in Finland. (c) The time limit of three months referred to in the foregoing subparagraph wiII be calculated from the date of a person’s last entry from a non-Nordic country into anyone of the Nordic countries party to the” above-mentioned Convention, provided, however, that a visitor who, during the six months immediately preceding such ~~try, has been staying in anyone of the Nordic countries party to the said Convention will have such period of stay deduc.ted. from the said period of three months”
Great article. I am spending two weeks in Spain,then two weeks in France,then two weeks in Spain, then a few days in France, then about 50 days in Spain then two weeks in Norway and Denmark then back to Spain for a week. I am flying in and out of Barcelona on a Kiwi passport. All up about 120 days in Schengen, with just under 90 days in Spain. So does it matter that the 90 days in Spain is broken up into segments? As long as the total is under 90 days in the 180 day period right?
As far as I know, it should be fine.
Have you seen this article on the German Embassy for NZ Website based in Wellington?: https://wellington.diplo.de/nz-en/service/-/2123002
Quote from the article: “According to this bilateral agreement the duration of one stay in Germany must not exceed 90 days but the number of entries to Germany is not limited. In order to re-enter Germany for another 90 days, visitors have to depart Germany for any other non-Schengen country and can come back on the same day. Since visitors need to be able to document the period of time they have been spending in Germany, we recommend to enter and to depart via a German airport in order to obtain an official entry and departure stamp in their passport. However your total must not exceed one year.”
I seeked clarification with the German Embassy in NZ on this as I am currently in Germany on a 90 day tourist visa and would like to stay a further 90 days soon after in Germany. Their reply confirmed that at the end of my 90 days I could fly out of the Schengen area e.g to London and return a few days later quote “Yes, when you re-enter the 90-day-visa-free stay commences again.” This however does not align with the 90/180 day rule and I wondered your take on it. Have a look at the article if you want and let me know if you think it’s a safe bet.
If you got confirmation from the embassy, print it out and travel with it. It’s on the embassy website too, so it’s as close to a slam dunk as you’re going to get. I’d be very comfortable staying in Germany on these grounds.
Fantastic research and advice. My wife and I are in Sweden on sabbatical and got the same advice on the NZ-Nordic region pre-Schengen bilateral agreements. In case anyone else wants to do this in the Nordic countries here are the relevant regulations: Article 20 Under Article 20 (1), a foreign national of a State to which there are no visa requirements may move freely within the Schengen area for a maximum of three months for a period of six months from the first entry, provided that the alien complies with the entry conditions of Article 5. Article 20 (2) derogates from visa exemption agreements concluded by the Schengen States prior to the entry into force of the Convention on 1 September 1993. Nationals of countries having such visa-free arrangements with Schengen States are not subject to the restrictions resulting from Article 20. These, but without a visa requirement, may be held for three months in each of the Schengen countries concerned. Source: https://www.riksdagen.se/sv/dokument-lagar/dokument/proposition/schengensamarbetet_GL0342/html Relationship to Swedish rules. Current Swedish regulations mean that a foreigner who is visa-free may stay free in Sweden for three months irrespective of previous stay in another non-Nordic country. The provisions of the Nordic Passport Control Agreement, on the other hand, see the Nordic countries as a unit, and an earlier stay in another Nordic country must be deducted from the three-month period (Chapter 3, Section 2 of the Norwegian Act). The Schengen Convention system is similar to the Nordic one, since the three-month period is counted from entry into the Schengen area. So to make this work for us, on day 90 we are going to Scotland for families and friends visit and returning 7 days later to re-start our 90 days.
Many many thanks Bren for your dedicated work in bringing this to everyone to notice…
I’ve been traveling for many years around the world and Europe is always an unknown quantity when it comes to visas and rights of stay.
I can not understand why the New Zealand government doesn’t just post the actual treaties actual documents of what they have with the various different European countries to make it easier for everyone else to know the rules and regulations and use it as proof that we do have treaties and bilateral visa rights for New Zealand citizens when visiting European and other countries.
As New Zealand citizens have the right to know all this and also the government is getting paid to do this.
So it’s about time someone reached out to the government and told them to get their act together and post proper information and the treaties on the New Zealand government website for travelers.
As this would save a lot of nerves inconvenience and wrong information disseminated on different websites.
So if you have time anyone reading this why don’t we put something together and ask the New Zealand government to do this for their citizens? as they can afford to do and are getting paid to do it.
As many times I’ve called the NZ Consulate in England asking for different information, as that’s like swimming upstream… as they tell you to go to the relevant countries where you want to stay in, that’s just a joke… as this is just passing the buck… to another country…
New Zealand embassy if you’re reading this get your act together and make sure you publish all the bilateral visa rights with the treaties and relevant information of our rights around the World in a proper way so your people that you work for and represent can read it and understand in a proper way.
As why should we have to write to every foreign embassy and ask them what our rights are?
As the New Zealand government which is getting paid for this from our text dollars should be providing their citizens with all the right information making it available in the public domain on their website, so it’s no discussion when we get to borders or get asked questions that we can’t answer.
As we are living in the 21st Century now, and you have no excuse to keep this information confidential or private as it is our right to know and to see the actual treaties which we have in place publicly on your website easy to find an informative to read.
This is typical government’s not welling to supply the right info to the people that they are employed by, or take responsibility for what they getting paid to do.
This may sound a little bit out of frustration, and probably it is… because no one knows really what we are covered for and what we’re not in the way of different visas.
So wake up New Zealand embassies and start looking after your people in the right way and give them the right information publicly so it’s no doubt or questions around what New Zealand citizens rights are in each individual country regarding visa right or anything else that they need to know…
Once again Bren thank you so much for all the effort and info you have supplied to all the people and in the way you’re going about it, as it is great of you.
Truly appreciated and thank you so much…
All the relevant treaties are posted here: https://www.treaties.mfat.govt.nz/ So stop whining about the government. Just type in the relevant country name and it should come up in the search results.
I don’t really care to bash the New Zealand government, but I think Aron James’s general point it quite reasonable. Why not make these agreements known, transparent and easily accessible, instead of the current mystery surrounding them, and give solid documents so we can utilize them as they are intended to be. I say this from the experience of almost getting fined by a young French migration officer who simply didn’t know the law, and was understandably skeptical of the vague documents I could give him affirming it. You retort back quite rudely to Aron, which you justified with a link that ‘should’ provide access to all the agreements. Did you actually bother to test the link yourself? So far I’ve gone through the three countries I need it for, and nothing.
I clicked on that link and couldn’t figure out how to find the information either, but I did find this….
https://www.mfat.govt.nz/assets/NZ-Embassies/Geneva-Switzerland/Border-controls-in-Europe-Schengen.pdf
I dont agree about getting the NZ Govt to make it easier, I would hate for them to just stop it all together because that was easier for them.
This is some great info. Love that someone posted the link for 180 days in Italy, printed and saved!
“I dont agree about getting the NZ Govt to make it easier, I would hate for them to just stop it all together because that was easier for them.”
No doubt that would be a terrible outcome, and you might be on to something, this would be easier for them. But it shouldn’t be one or the other, obscure documents or none at all, they should just substantiate these agreements and make them accessible. I hope we can assume they would act reasonable, take into account the value for NZ citizens these bilateral agreements have, and what must have been an immense amount of diplomatic time, resources and effort by whom ever organised and put these on paper back the 60s.
The irony is that the link you provided happens to be the document I presented to the French immigration officer I mentioned in my original post, the one he noted was not clear enough and not substantiated enough by the NZ government, or other official French legislature he could find.
Thanks for point out there was a post on here about 180 days Italy btw, also printed ; )
Hey thanks so much for this blog, it’s been hugely helpful planning my current trip around Europe. I had an interesting experience today which i thought was worth sharing here. I’ve been in Europe just over 3 months and got passport checked going into the Netherlands from Germany. I explained the bilateral agreement to the Dutch officer, he didn’t know about it and had to go away and check. Fortunately he came back and confirmed it was all OK, but I was a bit nervous as I didn’t have embassy confirmation etc cause i didn’t expect a border check as it’s schengen to schengen. Thought it was worth knowing that you might get checked, but can confirm the Netherlands recognises our agreement, so you shouldn’t have a problem.
Thanks for reporting back. Those central western countries like Netherlands, Germany and Switzerland do everything by the book, so I’m less nervous exiting through there.
Hi Bren, I’ve just been talking with the Italian embassy here in Wellington, apparently you can stay for up to 180 days visa free in Italy now; https://ambwellington.esteri.it/ambasciata_wellington/it/informazioni_e_servizi/visti/ NEW ZEALAND PASSPORT HOLDERS DO NOT REQUIRE A VISA FOR SHORT STAYS IN ITALY UP TO 180 DAYS, including the standard 90 days visa-free in the Schengen area and additional 90 days in Italy on the base of the Bilateral agreement signed on 25 January 1961 (irrespectively from other periods spent in other Schengen countries).
The only think I’m not sure about, and not sure if you know this – how many bilateral agreement visa’s would one be entitled to? And how long would one have to leave Italy for (after the 180 days) before returning to receive another 90 day visa under the bilateral agreement? The embassy couldn’t provide any guidance on this. Thanks
If the embassy can’t tell you then I certainly can’t tell you. This is good news though!
According to the Embassy website 'Please also note that after the 180 visa-free period, NZ passport holders are required to exit the Schengen area for at least 90 days.'
I arrived in Italy at the end of February 2020 and stayed (mostly in lockdown) for six months (180 days). Then I spent three months in Croatia (August-October) before returning to Italy in November 2020 for another six months. I'll leave Schengen again in late May 2021 (probably back to Croatia or UK if enough vaccinations have happened). Then back to Italy for another six months …
Thanks so much for sharing your experience! I'm currently in Spain and need to leave by April to avoid overstaying. Italy is looking like an excellent option given that I can stay for 6 months. When you arrive/exit Italy, do you have that notice from the embassy printed out? Also, when you went to Croatia from Italy, did you fly or take a ferry to avoid exiting the Schengen area from Slovenia?
Thanks again, Hannah
Following the advice in your blog I have just completed about 340 days in Europe over 365 days. There were a few exits and entrances from the Schengen region over that year and I was pulled aside 3 or 4 times and questioned. Mostly officials were just after an excuse to send me on my way. Generally I could show an entrance from a non-Schengen region country within the last 90 days and rather than examining the previous entry, which must be on computer showing I had recently had another lengthy stay, they showed me the door. Not sure how much was luck, and how much was good management but I had all my receipts, and a spreadsheet accumulating the number of nights I’d spent in countries with bi-lateral agreements with New Zealand.
Great to hear confirmation on that long stay, thank you for sharing Greg.
Anyone have experience travelling to Austria on the Bilateral Waiver Agreement from within Schengen?
I emailed the Austrian embassy to check agreement is still honoured. Response: it is, but one of the conditions: “You must exit the Schengen area before entering Austria under the Bilateral Agreement”. Never heard of this condition and none of the other Bilateral agreement countries I emailed have mentioned it. Anyone had problems with this? I don’t plan to travel out of the Schengen area from Austria.
Bren this is an awesome resource, you deserve a knighthood for your service to kiwis.
Just wondering peoples’ experience with providing evidence of where you’ve been. Eg is it enough to just have plane/train tickets to show you moved from one place to the next? Obviously all the embassies are telling us to bring evidence of everything but I’m interested to hear what peoples’ actual experiences are. When we’re staying with friends and family etc we don’t always have accommodation receipts. And holding onto little receipts from restaurants and ATMs is a pain in the arse too. Thanks guys and see you on the road.
Honestly I doubt customs officers really are going to look that far into it unless they hate you. As long as you have basic accommodation receipts it should be fine. Worst comes to worst you can pull up your bank/credit card statements and show a few transactions.
Thanks Bren, I won’t have accommodation receipts for a fair bit of it as I’ll be staying with friends etc. But I’ll have receipts from flights and trains etc so hopefully that will do the trick!
Hi Bren I am wondering how current everything is in October 2019? My husband is a kiwi, I am an EU passport holder and we are planing to go caravaning or motorhoming in Europe next year open ended
Hi again. Sorry didn’t see that some post are quite recent…so I answered my own question. Love your entire website. Great resource
Hi Bren We have been tracking developments on your website on this issue as we are planning a 6 month trip to Europe in 2021 as a big retirement adventure. We plan to spend 5 weeks in Spain, spend a month in France, go on to Switzerland in June for 2 weeks and then back to France for approx 2 months ( the rest of our 90 day entitlement for France) , before heading to Italy for approx 3 weeks to take us up to just short of the 180 days. We will seek documentation about the bilateral visa waiver from France and there is a letter to print available on the Italian embassy website in NZ and have that as well as all our proof of bus tickets accommodation. We are just wondering if we will have a problem if we don’t fly home to NZ directly from say Rome but say we have a return ticket on Lufthansa they will take us through a hub like Munich or Frankfurt who will be our exit port from Europe and the Schengen. Even though the 180 days has not been at any stage in Germany could they still get uptight with us, despite the documentation? Would hate this to spoil the end of our trip and dont want a ban stopping us going back for a few years. Thanks so much for any advice you can give us.
It would be the final destination where the check usually happens, so in the scenario you described it would most likely be in Germany. Germany is pretty good though, they are sticklers for rules and in this case, the rules are on your side.
FYI – also be aware that from 2021, NZ is one of the 60 countries that will be required to apply for a ETIAS. This is essentially the same as what NZ have just introduced with their eTA and what the US have had for years.
https://www.etiasvisa.com/etias-requirements/new-zealanders
Hi BreathingTheWorld, I’ve been reading about the introduction of the ETIAS in 2021. Correct me if I am wrong but does this introduction essentially remove the luxury that New Zealand’s have had in some countries of staying beyond 90 days in the Schengen zone? Or does our bilateral agreement with particular countries, as mentioned in the article, still superseded this? Somewhat confused…
Am I going Crazy? I could have bet this article said starting in 2021 last time I looked at it, but now it says end of 2022.
Hi Gary and Troi,
I just read thru the linked website and also wonder if the special arrangements NZ has with many EU countries will end when ETIAS comes into effect at the end of 2022. Note that they say to check back from time to time for updates. That’s probably why Troi was doubting his sanity when he saw the implementation date change overnight.
Copied from the FAQs on that website:
How long can a New Zealander stay in Europe?
NZ passport holders are granted a 90-day stay within a 180 days into the Schengen Area without a visa. For these purposes, the 180-day period begins on the first day that a traveler enters a member country. The 90 days are counted by adding the total number of days a visitor spends within the Schengen Area starting from the first day they entered. This includes an unlimited number of entries into and exits from member nations.
I’ve come back to this article many times over the last few years so I thought I’d share my experience.
I’m now sitting on the other side of immigration control at Düsseldorf airport.
Officer looked through my stamps and asked me when I arrived. I said April X in the Netherlands, to which he seemed surprised and I almost shat myself.
He kept looking through my prior stamps in Europe – which is a lot but all within the overall 90 days rule on this passport. I didn’t say anything and tried to not look nervous.
Then he asked when I flew to Germany, I said I took a train from Paris in August. He said something to the other guy next to him and reached for the stamp.
So it was a bit scary. I have a feeling that he was looking at whatever data they have on the computer screen, to see if what I said matched up.
He certainly changed a bit when I indicated I’d been in Germany less than 90 days. They probably have to assume that travellers have been in the country the whole time until shown otherwise. Entering and exiting the same country after 90 days might be a different story.
So my guess is he was aware of the rule, or Kiwis aren’t a significant risk, or his shift is almost over. It’s always hard to know, just be prepared with evidence and be able to jump to the appropriate documentation on the rule.
I have to come back for my car within the next month so I’ll also share the sequel on reentering.
Promised sequel:
I didn’t get around to going back for my car until 92 days later in February. I took the Eurostar from London to Paris. As with all my experiences entering France, I had no questions at all and the process was fast.
About 1 week after that I took the ferry back to the UK, and again no questions from French border control on exit.
So my Schengen experience was: 186 days in 92 days out 8 days in
No problem.
France is supposedly great re entry exit. I’m guessing more of them are aware about the NZ passport now and don’t even bother checking just see the front cover and assume you’re good. Spain too.
My experience: leaving the Schengen Area after 6 months from Austria. I wanted to share my experience for others to know how this works in real life. I travelled in the Schengen area for around 155 days and I was super nervous about leaving from Vienna. When I went through passport control, the woman looked at my passport and was clearly confused. She asked me a lot of questions about where I had been and I showed her the itinerary I had printed off. She called two other officers who spoke to each other in German for a few minutes, then they stamped my passport and waved me through. I did not have to explain the bilateral visa agreements at all. I was relieved. Your border experience totally depends on the immigration officers who are there on the day. Relying on these waivers is a risk and you may have to pay a fine. Be prepared.
In those German influenced countries they’re generally quite good with rules. If your officer thinks you’ve overstayed you could just explain the waivers and she’ll call her superiors and they should see that it checks out. Even if you pay a fine make sure you get the receipt, and you could probably get it refunded later if you follow it up.
For the last three years we have spent 6 months in the schengen zone and six months in NZ. We have departed the Schengen zone each time from a different place, Barcelona, Copenhagen and Berlin.
We have always carried a folder of receipts that link us by bankcard to a location and date as well as printouts of emails that demonstrate our bilateral agreement.
We have been asked each time by officials to tell them when we entered the EU. We have never had to open the folder or explain further.
We will be doing the same again in 2020 but not sure yet where our exit point will be. I follow this page regularly and appreciate the work Bren did originally and the recent updates from other travelers.
Great to know, thanks!
We got confirmations by email from the French and Spanish embassies in mid-2019, plus the printable letter on the Italian embassy website, saying the bilateral agreements are still accepted and in force. Leaving Spain in December 2019 the guy behind the counter looked carefully at the dates of entry, asked if I could speak Spanish (perhaps to ask about our 120 days since arrival in Schengen?), and on getting my “No”, just stamped the passports with a smile and off we went.
By contrast in 2018 we left from Prague, Czech Republic, after 100 days in Schengen. The counter man worked out we had gone over 90 days and called for backup. We were taken aside by a rather officious woman, stood waiting outside some offices for a good 10 minutes before a pleasant (and more senior?) official came out and said that “Yes, we know there is a bilateral agreement with the Czech Republic, but we choose to ignore it and you have overstayed by 10 days. However we are really busy out back with more serious cases, and you are welcome to leave.” And he escorted us past immigration and off we went.
The message from that is don’t leave Schengen from somewhere that does not actively allow use of the bilateral agreement.
A confirmation email from the embassy would really help in that situation.
Wondering if anyone knows how the new 2021 ETIAS will affect waivers and stays in europe/schengen/non-schengen areas please?
Hey Bren……I returned from a month in Portugal via london to NZ in November. I’d travelled Europe extensively for about a year…..but always ensured I popped into and out of Bulgaria a couple of times, and I never once got pulled aside or questioned……I’m a retired pensioner……so I’m guessing perhaps my age is a benefit to me! I’m heading back to Europe via Athens in ten days time…..intending on living and travelling around Europe for good…..eventually taking up the reciprocal pension agreement we have with Greece to be a permanent resident living on Crete.
Hi has anyone had a very recent reply from the Portugal Embassy as to whether New Zealand now has a waiver with them or not. A year and a half ago the answer was a no so just wondering if anyone has heard any different recently.
I had a reply from the Portuguese embassy in Canberra earlier this year confirming that they don't honour the waiver, which is such a bummer. Do you have recent experience exiting via France? I want to take the eurostar to London after 3 months in Spain and 3 months in France, but I can't find it mentioned anywhere on the French Consulate's website and none of the embassies I've contacted confirm it either.
Thanks, Hannah
Just a recent 2020 update…Belgium allows for a 2 month visit after spending 3 mths in other schengen countries. France, Germany, Italy and Switzerland all allow NZ citizens up to 3 months regardless of time spent in other schengen countries. I travelled a couple of years ago but am writing to embassies again just to double check. I’m waiting to hear back about Portugal I know it was a no in the past but I’m hoping maybe they have changed their minds.
I’m just wondering if anyone can help. I’m a New Zealand citizen mid fifties and would like to stay in Europe and work. I teach English but I don’t have a degree which makes it very difficult getting a work placement. I’m thinking maybe of Nanny work but can’t find any help online. If anyone has suggestions or experience in getting work /work visas it would be very much appreciated. I want to stay over for longer to be closer to young grandchildren, but due to our New Zealand dollar exchange it gets very expensive if one cannot work.
Hi Been I just heard back from the French Embassy who deals with the Portugal/NZ schengen zone rules. And New Zealanders are allowed to enter Portugal and stay for up to 3 months regardless of time spent in other schengen zone countries. Just thought id update if anyone was needing the info
Awesome thanks!
How can the French Embassy comment on the Portugal rules?
I’m wanting to spend 5 months a year in Portugal, and I have Spanish residency. A waiver by Portugal would be awesome for me, otherwise I will be limited to just 3 months. Though how either Spain or Portugal will know with no border control between them I have no idea.
Hi Mia, Can you confirm that this is true and valid? What did they say and who did you contact exactly? My email from the Consulate General of Portugal in Sydney said "There is no bilateral agreement between Portugal and New Zealand,"
Hi all. I know it’s an old article but it’s a great read bren!! Fantastic actually. Very imformative.
I’m wondering though, do these rules still apply to nz passport holders since the covid-19 has hit? If so is it possible to obtain my first schengen visa from the UK?
The waivers won’t have changed but travel restrictions are going to depend on each particular country.
The ETIAS information page has been updated to include details about the individual visa waiver bilateral agreements between NZ and several EU countries, specifically stating “This means that citizens of New Zealand can visit these countries for more than the 90-day visa-free permission already in place.”
Hi H, thanks for pointing this out! Would you be able to post the exact page link? Much appreciated. Had a look on the main page and couldn't find this. I think its statement on the official Schengen visa information site is about as authoritative official recognition we can get on the bilateral agreements, which skeptical border officials and airlines can then be referred to. With border checks currently back in place between EU countries, I find myself constantly questioned by border officials who have no idea about this, and who are very unconvinced by what documents I can show them.
https:undefinedundefinedwww.etiasvisa.comundefinedetias-requirementsundefinednew-zealanders#:~:text=The%20New%20Zealand%20government%20has,free%20permission%20already%20in%20place.
I’m in Portugal at the moment and my three months is almost up. Am I reading the website correctly? I can actually stay for a total of six months?
This post has been incredibly helpful to understand bilateral agreements. I read all the warnings and I know this is not meant for anyone not being a NZ citizen, so yes I'm writing under my own risk haha!
I'm a canadian citizen currently in the EU, which I entered through France. After my 90 days I would like to use the Canada-Belgium bilateral agreement to stay 60 days more in Belgium. I have emailed the department of foreign affairs, and they said that yes, it's possible to use the agreement, as long as my ARRIVAL and depart is from Belgium.
And the arrival confuses me. Do you think he refers to the original arrival at the Schengen or the arrival for the beginning of the 60 days? It wouldn't make sense that it's the arrival to the Schengen, right? If that was the case I wouldn't be able to use the agreement since I entered the Schengen through France. He also said it's not necessary to leave the Schengen or even Belgium (if I'm already there) to put in force the agreement. This is why I'm a bit confused.
I know this is meant for NZ citizens but really this is the only place where I have gotten such complete information on this matter. And the foreign affairs guy was incredibly helpful but I guess I annoyed him too much because he stopped answering my questions. He read on the email that I entered the Schengen through France though, so my guess is that he would have told me if it wasn't possible to use the agreement.
So well, I would love to hear about someone using the agreement on Belgium or if anyone might help me interpretating his answer.
Best regards!
I have no idea – you would need to ask a Canadian embassy! Or give them a call if they won’t answer your emails 😉
Thanks for all your hard work pulling this information together.
Fyi – here is a list of bilateral visa waiver agreements in effect for Schengen area countries, as reported to the European Commission:
https:undefinedundefinedeur-lex.europa.euundefinedlegal-contentundefinedENundefinedTXTundefined?uri=OJ%3AJOC_2019_130_R_0007
It's sometimes possible to find the text of these agreements by searching through the online collections of treaties andundefinedor diplomatic notes published on the websites of the foreign ministries of the countries involved, or through the online publishings of the old UN Treaty Series.
Here I believe is the new definitive page by the European commission regarding bilateral visa agreements. It confirms the agreements, and provides some updates. It appears now that we 'should' request before entering the country if we may use the agreement – this is different than before, where we emailed to get confirmation that the agreement was in place at all. In 2022, when the ETIAS is launched, the process of tracking which countries have been traveled in on the bilateral visa agreements will be recorded – so it appears there may not be need to document yourself where you have traveled.
https:undefinedundefinedwww.etiasvisa.comundefinedetias-newsundefinedeu-bilateral-visa-waiver-agreements
For anyone with insight, I'd be grateful if you could share on this topic. Where do you clear passport control when exiting Europe, if your international flight first stops briefly in another European Schengen country before continuing on. The first airport, or the last one before actually leaving Europe?
I'm trying to make sure I leave through a country that is familiar with the bilateral agreements to avoid hassle, but its hard to say when there is an hour stop over in another Schengen country, at which one will I actually go through the boarder controls.
Hi! I have a house in Spain and want to reside there 6 months per year. This means I would utilise the bilateral agreement with Spain and stay for 89 days, depart to a non Schengen country for a few days/weeks and return for a further 89 days. The Spanish embassy in NZ said I could do this, but border control in Spain had a different view on this. They said I needed to apply for residency/NLV and I couldn't come and go as I had been doing, or I would risk being black listed. I have an email from the Spanish embassy detailing my ability to leave Spain & the Schengen before my 90 days ( for as long or short as I want), and return again to Spain , which resets my 90 days. I'm worried to do this again as I can't risk being black listed so have been staying outside Schengen for 90 days this time and will return on the 90th day. Has anyone experience of doing this successfully themselves? Can they blacklist me if I have their email telling me I'm within my rights to do this? Thanks, Jamie
According to the waivers, you could go to Spain for 90 days, then to France for 90 days, then back to Spain for 90 days, and do this indefinitely. But that’s only according to the waivers, whether each country respects them or not is a different story. In your case, I’d say it will be easier in the long run to just apply for a visa.
Thanks Bren. I would be travelling out of the Schengen zone, to the UK to lessen any issues, before returning to Spain…. ,although legislation states it can be done, border police can do as they please, so Im not confident in utilising the waiver again anytime soon, but may be once covid is under control I might give it another go. In the meantime I will just stay out of the Schengen for 3 months each time to reduce the risks. May be in the future I will apply for the NLV, but many hoops to jump through, lots of income evidence required, etc. We will see! Thanks again 🙂
This post is amazing! Just had a quick question…… Say you enter the Schengen area and your 180 days starts and you visit the countries where the bilateral agreement with New Zealand is in place, so now you've spent say 10 or so months (legally) in the Schengen area, when does the 180 day period restart? Does it just restart after 6 months even if you are still in the Schengen area. Or do I need to pop over to some where like the UK for 90 days? Or would I need to stay in the UK for 180 days to restart my 180 day period for the Schengen area so that I can visit the countries where there is no bilateral agreement?
If you plan to go to a country with no bilateral agreement, you will need to exit Schengen for 90 days and then return.
Just thought I'd share, I'm planning a trip to Europe at the end of the month and emailed the France, Italy, Spain and Greece embassies in New Zealand.
Within 24 hours, I've had confirmation that the bilateral agreement is indeed still active. Greece sent me the most detailed response, saying it was necessary to let border control workers when entering that I was entering on this visa waiver and ensure they stamp my passport.
Spain went as far as to say 'Once you leave Spain you can return for an additional up to 90 days at any time (you do not need to wait for any period before returning to Spain). If you do this, and although it may be a difficult thing to do with no border controls, be sure to get your passport stamped on the way out of Spain and also upon coming back, so the periods may be properly computed.'
Italy sent to to this link to have a printed document of the agreement: https://ambwellington.esteri.it/ambasciata_wellington/it/informazioni_e_servizi/visti/visti.html
France was also very insistent in keeping records 'To be able to prove when you leave France that you didn’t overstay, we strongly advise you to keep all your travel tickets and hotel invoices from the Schengen entry date (stamp from the immigration officer in your passport).'
Really helpful thanks!
Hi! I’m planning on going to Greece and would love to use the visa waiver. Do you have the email address of the Greek embassy still? Not totally clear who to email on google!
Thanks Christina
Hi Bren, My question relates to the coming ETIAS visa implementation from late 2022 Historically I have used NZ's bilateral agreements to stay in Europe for 5-6 months a year (but never more than 90 days in one EU country). I have never had a border issue leaving (although I have all my documented proof of travel if questioned) This site has some good information about the new ETIAS visa waiver system https://www.etiasvisa.com/etias-requirements/new-zealanders
But I am a bit lost regarding this paragraph – "A bilateral agreement is a deal signed with an individual government. This means that under one agreement, New Zealanders can only travel visa-free to the country the agreement applies to and must remain there for the total length of application of this reciprocal arrangement. Those interested in visiting more than one Schengen Member State visa-free within one trip should apply for an ETIAS visa waiver for Europe."
Will the bilateral agreements currently in place still work like they always have for NZ Passport holders once the ETIAS visa system has been implemented, or will it be more restrictive going forward?
Many Thanks
Richard, Did you ever find the answer to your question?
Hi Bren, your post has been very informative and found it when googling bi lateral agreements 🙂 If I stayed 90 days in Austria, could I leave to a non Schengen country for a period of 2 weeks and go back to Austria for a month or does the bilateral agreement not apply? Am getting conflicting info when I ask about if they are of 2 different legal basis from Austria like you have. Thanks
This is such a helpful article – thanks Bren!
Hoping you can help with some additional specific questions, I’ve emailed the embassies to ask too, but can’t find the answers online.
I’m planning to go to Europe in April 2022 – and spending April and May in Spain, and June in Sweden – using my 90/180 days. I then want to go back to Spain using the bilateral agreement for July and Aug.
1) should this be possible? Unsure if the bilateral allows 90 days in total in Spain irrespective of other Schengen time spent, or if it is an additional 90 days in Spain (despite having already spent 60 days there)
2) I see once you utilise the 90 day bilateral you can’t travel within Schengen area (fair enough!) but can I travel in and out of Spain from non-Schengen? I have a wedding in Scotland at the end of July, so hoping I can start my bilateral at the start of July, visit Scotland for the wedding then return to Spain and continue utilising the bilateral.
Any help would be great, this info is not online!
Hey Paula, I'm about to start a similar trip and was wondering how yours went? Specifically around using over 90 days in Spain.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs we have got many of the Embassies to update their websites with information about the bilateral agreements in each country, for example Italy allows 90 days PLUS 90 extra days, you just have to leave the Schengen via Italy after your additional 90 days. So in general you do not need to email first – you can check the website of the individual country to see if they honour the agreement.
NOTE: DO NOT TRAVEL FROM MALTA. Myself and a second NZ citizen were issued travel bans after they refused to review the information presented to them by the NZ/EU governments. They gave me a 3 year ban initially but I was able to get it down to ONE year. Even though the other NZ citizen who traveled two weeks prior to me was en-route to the UK, he was denied passage while TRANSITING through Malta. He was returned to Bulgaria where he flew from. But he was able to enter Germany a few weeks later so I am not sure that he was issued a ban per se.
I can confirm also that Greece recognises the bilateral agreement so you can still use it until ETIAS takes effect.
Hi Mark, just wondering if you or anyone else could shed some light on the Italy agreement. I know that the document mentions you must leave Italy for a non-Schengen country after the 90 extra days and you must leave for 90 days before returning to the zone. But what if my original 180 days will roll over and reset after only 14 days of being in Italy on the bilateral agreement. Could I leave Italy for the UK for a couple of days and then head to France a couple days later once my 180 days reset?
Thanks in advance for any insight.
Does anyone have any information on Hungary? Planning to enter Portugal at the start of May this year and leave Croatia (now part of the Schengen Area) on my 89th day.
I am wanting on be in Hungary for around a week from the 90th day, then head into Greece for 2 weeks and then finish in France for one week.
Any info would be much appreciated!
Just found this official EU website listing all the bilaterals between EU member states and third countries (like NZ). Super useful for it to be more official looking to confirm the many agreements listed on this site.
https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/c067e92d-5a8b-11e9-9151-01aa75ed71a1
Any updates on the latest bilateral agreement policies? We have no idea where we're going to end up but want more than just 90 days in Schengen zones!
Nothing has changed as far as I know.
Hi Bren , Thanks for all the info.
Can I ask a theoretical question: let's say, I spend 90 days in Prague in Czech Republic in the schengen zone. Then I go to Italy for the additional 90 days.
Can I then go Italy direct to France…. for the additional 90 days that France gives a nz passport holder?
I am originally from Taranaki but have lived in Hurghada, Egypt on the Red Sea for 5 years. Bren – if you ever come this way, you are welcome to stay at my guesthouse, it is just next to the Hurghada Marina & 350 metres from the beach. Anyway Bren….your website has been so helpful! Thank you 🙏😊
Cheers John Taranaki & Hurghada WhatsApp –
Hi John, my understanding is yes, the law allows you to do that. Whether the French border patrol will allow it is a different story, but France seems to be reasonably good at following the guidelines. Double check with the embassy – having an email in writing helps. Regards Brendan. P.S. I edited out your phone number – best not to have that floating around freely on the internet 🙂
I'm a NZ citizen and have just spent 194 days in the Schengen area. I entered the Netherlands via ferry on 1 September 2022 and left via Dunkirk on 14 March 2023. There was no comment from either the French or UK border control. I had receipts confirming dates of stas which were predominantly Italy (81 days), Spain (51 days), France 47 days) and the Netherlands 14 days). I also had confirmation printed off from the embassies confirming the bilateral agreements but still I felt a bit anxious at the border when leaving. Thank you so much for your research as it was a great help in my planning. I travelled solo in my campervan and had a great time.
Great to hear!!!
Hi Glynis When you say you had confirmation from the Embassies, do you mean you emailed them? Or that you had information from their websites? Many thanks
Whilst the original post is a bit old now, I suspect others will stumble on it like I did, so hopefully the following information will help. I'm not a lawyer so please intepret as you see fit but my view is that NZ Bilaterals still stand, are not superceded by the Schengen agreement and NZ citizens should legally be able to stay longer than 90 days out of 180 in these countries. That of course doesn't mean the border immigration staff (where they exist) will know about these agreements, so having some evidence may be helpful.
1. The majority of old bilaterals NZ has with EU countries are still in force. See: http://www.treaties.mfat.govt.nz/search
2. The Schengen agreement of Jun 1985 did not supercede these bilateral agreements. See: eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:42000A0922(02)
3. The EU has recognised that confusion was created between the Schengen agreement and exiting bilateral agreements as explained in this recommendation document of Sep 2016. See: http://www.statewatch.org/media/documents/news/2016/oct/eu-council-exit-entry-bilaterals-12114.en16.pdf
4. Following this, an amendment was issued which states that a stay may be extended in accordance with the bilateral agreement. See Article 60 in the following dated Nov 2017: webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/eu-exit/20181201110010/https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=uriserv:OJ.L_.2017.327.01.0020.01.ENG
5. This agreement required Schengen countries to provide their list of active visa bilaeral agreements which was published in Apr 2019. See: op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/c067e92d-5a8b-11e9-9151-01aa75ed71a1
Hope this helps.
Thanks for the updates! Appreciated.
Hi Bren, wow what a read, very awesome . Got a curly one for you, I'm travelling with my Irish wife and 2 aussie kids, can they come through with me on my nz passport?
You’re all treated as individuals, so if you’re wife has an Irish passport that would most likely be fine, but Aussie passports I think are restricted to 90 days.
Hey guys! Regarding this topic, I am currently a New Zealander who's gonna be staying in Europe and overseas for 5-6 months. I was wondering whether attempting to use these bilateral agreements would be worth it. I have emailed all the respective embassies and all of them have said the bilateral agreements are still valid. However, all the embassies also said that it was up to the airport authorities to decide whether the bilateral agreements were valid or not and that some airport authorities may not know about these rules. To be honest I'm still deciding whether to use these bilateral agreements or if i should just leave before the 90 days expire. Any advice would be appreciated!
Confirmation from the embassy is the key. Most people have no issue if they have this. The bilateral agreements are law after all.
Hi Bren, this is a great blog and really informative. I’ve read through all the comments but just wondering if you or your readers could help clarify something for me. I’m coming up to leaving the Schengen area after 85 days , to go to the UK for a few weeks, then to Norway under the bilateral agreement for 2.5 months. I’ve emailed the Norwegian embassy and know I have no problems entering and leaving Norway.
My question is do I need to leave the Schengen area from Norway. I have read conflicting information about this. If I do leave the Schengen zone does the 90/180 reset from when I last left i.e arrived mid March , left mid June and spent three months in UK and Norway. So re entry would then be mid September.
Or can I go straight from Norway back into the Schengen zone and leave again at the end of 90 days from either Switzerland or Germany where they seem to be more aware of the rules.
Technically you should be able to leave any country that recognises the waivers. Germany and Swizterland have proven pretty good in the past, but if you have a confirmation from the embassy in any country you should be okay I would imagine.
Hi there Bren,
Thank you so much for the helpful information, you’re a legend! I’ve had trouble trying to work out this and your blog has been a saviour.
I just wanted to clarify with you about my situation and see if you can help:
I have been living in the UK studying at Bristol University and since it was 6 months or less i didn’t need a visa. During my time there I did a week trip to France (my first entrance into the Schengen Zone). I then returned back to the UK as normal. After finishing my semester, I travelled to the Amalfi Coast in Italy for 26 days and then went to Spain for 6 days and then Portugal for 6 days as well. I am now back in the UK but on the 1st of July I go to Prague and then to Germany, Sweden, Netherlands, Spain, Italy and France. Overall, my time in the Schengen area is 107 days (17 over the 90 days). My 90th day is the day I leave to Spain. I am wondering how do I avoid getting pinged at the border as I moving around a lot of countries via flying and worried I will get caught. I’ve gone ahead and emailed all the embassy’s and am waiting to hear back. On my 107th day, I leave France to go back to the UK and fly out back to NZ a few days later.
Are you please able to give me some advice and recommendations or reassurance that I will be okay?
Thanks again mate, Matt
Are you please able to a
I’m also about to email the embassies for France, Spain, and Sweden to check if they will recognise the waivers. Did you get a response from the embassies you emailed already?
I also contacted the French embassy in July but haven’t heard back. Which email address do you intend to use?
Cheers! Kelsey
Sorry for the late reply – I didn't see that you'd replied to my message!
I initially filled out a 'contact us' type form on the embassy website. They emailed me back telling me to email [email protected] . When I emailed that address they sent me an automatic response that included:
"Please note that the visa service will NOT reply to any inquiry regarding the information below:
. For information regarding the bilateral visa waiver agreement please refer to the page below: >> https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/travel-tips-travel-europe" ;
.. seems like they have received a few emails about this, but also the response is not conclusive, just points back to the safetravel advice.
Just thought I'd add that I noticed Italy has added this on the embassy website ( https://ambwellington.esteri.it/ambasciata_wellington/it/informazioni_e_servizi/visti/ ):
"We advise not to overstay the 90 days period as the Italian Authorities in Italy do not recognise additional visa-free days on the base of the Bilateral agreement signed on 25 January 1961."
That same page used to have this PDF linked which stated we could stay 180 days…(link is still live it seems: https://ambwellington.esteri.it/ambasciata_wellington/resource/doc/2019/05/bilateral_agreement.pdf )
I didn't notice it when planning my trip so must have been added relatively recently.
I am currently in Italy and had plan to be here for a while. I have a copy of the letter that is still in the live link so hopefully I won't have any problem, but the website has clearly been changed not to honor the extra 90 days. Has anyone tried to leave from Italy after the website was changed?
Hi Troi, have you left Italy yet? If so how did it go. We are about to enter Italy and were planning on using the Bilateral agreement to stay 21 days over the schengen 90 days but are now a bit worried to do so given the changes on the embassy website.
I'm currently in Italy and have been here for several months, longer than 90 days. When we arrived in May the information on the NZ website was for 180 days. I downloaded the letter and see that the link is still live. Hoping we can leave from Fiumicino without problems next month. We would appreciate keeping in touch here with people in the same situation. Thanks.
Can you please advise how you went leaving?
Hi there! I am trying to stay in Spain for up to 90 days and want to contact a Spanish embassy for proof but I cant find their email anywhere! I was wondering if you knew how. Thank you
Hi Bren Do you know if you can overstay in Greece with the Schengen regulations?
Yes you can. Email the Greek embassy in nz and they will confirm
Help Please! I have dual citizenship, NZ and UK. My partner of 100 years has UK passport with permanent residence in NZ. What we have done in the past: Spent 3 x 1 months in Spain over 180 days with the interim time in the UK. What we would like to do now we have heard of the magic NZ Bilateral Agreements: Spend 3 weeks in Spain (coming from the UK), fly to Italy for 1 week and then fly back to UK for 1 month. Then, from the UK, fly to Portugal for 1 week, then fly to Spain for 4 weeks, and then fly back to UK for 2 months. Finally, fly to Spain from the UK for the balance of our 90 day Spanish allowance (plus any extra days if we are allowed) before returning to UK and departing back to NZ Is this allowed? And if so, should I email Spanish Embassy for confirmation? I don’t think I would need to email the Italian or Portuguese embassies as we would not be up to a total of 90 Shenghan days when we travelled there. And, last but certainly not least, can my partner piggy back on me/come under the agreement anyway as he has permanent residence in NZ? Any advice much appreciated
Hi Bren, We are a multinational family and one of us already has NZ citizenship, the kids could follow. We are travelling the world indefinitely since February and of course one of our questions was : How to not be limited by the 90 out of 180 day rule inside the Schengen area.
We have come across your post when researching for our trip which guided us to dig deeper. In recent years some things have changed due to the imminent EES (entry/exit system) which would flag anyone as overstaying if they just stayed based on bilateral agreements.
The EU has discussed and brought these to attention. They are now listed, still marked as valid and while there are sometimes different answers from governments you will find that some countries have created ways to even apply online for an extension based solely on these bilateral agreements. We have included all the info we could find on our blog here https://fouronajourney.com/2023/09/16/travel-europe-long-term/ Thanks again for the hard work you put in, you inspired us 🙂
there is one rider to all of this. The Nordic countries count all time spent in another nordic country as part of their 90 days. So you cannot spent 90 days in Norway and 90 days in Sweden. It appears to apply to Finland, Norway, Sweden and Iceland. So it is 90 days nordic and 90 days bilateral treaty non-nordic.
Does anyone know if the ETIAS next year will affect the validity of these bilateral agreements?
Hey, my friends and I just had a bit of a mare trying to use the bilateral visa waiver to get into Greece and thought it could be helpful to share our experience for anyone planningto go to Greece.
We all had stayed over our 90 days in SChengen (legally, using visa waivers in other countries like Switzerland and Germany). And then we all met in Albania. We had confirmed letters from the embassy saying the bilateral visa waiver with Greece was still in place and printed these. We took the ferry across to Corfu and 2 of us got stamped, but another got hold up.. we waited for them and then we all were pulled aside for more questioning by the customs people. They told us that the visa waiver is in place HOWEVER, because we had been over 90 days in Schengen AND were entering from Albania/non-Schengen then they did not recognise the waiver. So they refused our entry and sent us back to Albania..
Lesson learnt is to really confirm with the NZ embassy about the exact Schengen dates you're at and where you are entering from, rather than just confirming the waiver. After speaking with the NZ embassy they said that the officer was correct and it's just a technicality. A
Also we met other Kiwi's who breezed in from Albania so it is just really does to who you get at the Greek border..
Damn thats a shitty situation, as you say 2 of you got stamped through without issue so you must have had a real stickler at customs to pull you up.
wow! That sucks… I'm planning on entering Greece in a few days from Albania too and intend to use the bilateral agreement to enter. I have only spent 66 days in the last 180 in other Schengen countries… does that mean I will be okay? And do you need to tell the border agent your intention to enter on the bilateral agreement? I find it confusing that they don't recognise the waiver in your situation!!
I was thinking the best thing for you to do is enter under the Schengen visa as you still have extra days and then stay under the Greek extension. I see the post was is a couple of months old. Can you please advise what you did and how it worked for you?
How does this apply to Croatia now that it is in the EU
Hi, I spent 114 days in the Schengen zone from July to November 2023…. Entered Frane and left Italy. I hadn't given much thought to how long I had left on my 90 days until a quick calculation today…. I am planning to go to France again on the 17th Jan 2023…. which means I have only been out of the zone for 77 days before entering again. Given the bilateral waivers I am sure I can justify the overstay back in 2023 but my question is can I enter France again since I had already entered as apart of the 90 days only 77 days ago? Any advice would be appreciated. Or how I can get around this. Planning on one week in France and then 4 nights in Belgium before heading back to England. Also will this mean needing to wait another 90 days before heading back?
Amazing effort pulling this all together. Im planning a van trip with my German girlfriend this year. We are flying to Germany format at the start of April where we will stay for six weeks and convert the van.
We are then planning to drive through France, Switzerland, Italy, Australia and Croatia, leaving the Schengen zone into Bosnia at the beginning of August.
We then intend to spend about six weeks in non Schengen countries, before entering again in Hungary and then driving up through Slovakia, Czechia, Poland before flying out of Germany in October.
Is this likely to work if I use the visa waivers for the beginning of my trip to Germany, France, Italy and Spain? My sense from reading your article is that it is better to use them to extend the visit rather than the other way around.
Be really grateful for any thoughts.
Update on this as of 04/02/24:
France: yes Germany: yes Switzerland: yes The Netherlands: yes, but "we would advise you to go to an IND office once you arrive in the Netherlands to apply for an extension of stay citing the bilateral agreement between the two countries. https://ind.nl/en/service-and-contact" ;
Hi Bren, would you consider doing an update on how the new ETIAS system might impact n Kiwis.
If we assume Treaty agreements still apply, how would these be recorded in ETIAS.
Many thanks for your excellent site.
Hello all!!! Update for 2024 as of the 30/05/2024
From my emails to embassies the following are still honouring the policy.
Belgium – yes! Border patrol had no idea on the law, extremely stressful but after they raid the letter I had from the embassy that allowed me to pass. Belgium also only offers an additional 2 months. To be honest I would not recommend this as dispute following all the rules I still feel that they might not honour this in future as thy had zero idea.
France yes! This seems like your best bet. I had a Friend stay well pass her 90 days and had no idea this rule existed. Border patrol just let her through no questions asked. Plus flights into Paris are cheaper than most airports so I would recommend this one.
Germany yes.
Netherlands yes. But they do advise that you got squire a visa extension at the office. For people with anxiety like me I would recommend this as it gives you a more concrete answer and proof that you’re golden.
I have a question for the group is anyone knows the answer.
I have gotten a confirmation email from the Belgium embassy that the additional 2 months does not effect the 90 days renewal.
So theoretically, could you stay 90 days in Europe, spend another 90 days in Germany. Leave the EU. And then by that time your 180 days would be up and you could re-enter and repeat.
I understand that there are no 100% with this but was wondering if anyone has tried this or had experience with the effect staying more time in one EU country has on the 180 days period.
Interesting that you got this response that the additional 2 months does not affect the 90 day renewal. I got the contrary written response from the Belgium Embassy in Canberra.
Nevertheless, I am currently in Belgium taking advantage of the additional 2 months and exiting the Schengen through Belgium to Ireland in September. I am then hoping to spend some time in both Spain and Germany before leaving Europe. Does anyone have any recent experience of entering either of these places whilst over the 90 days Schengen count?
Regards, Anjukan
Hi everyone
I’ve discovered this on the NZ Italian Embassy website. It’s not encouraging. Has anyone left Italy- to Albania by ferry recently and been hassled if a. You were a few days overdue or b. You tried to state that you were using an Italian visa waiver. ???
Also what experience have people had in Bulgaria and Roumania now that they are members. ??? I want to spend a couple of nights there -or more – and some days in the train on the way to Istanbul. Do you think they will throw me out / fine me if my 90 days are over. Will they believe it if I cite a 42 day stay in Italy as a visa waiver and not part of the 90 days?? Love to hear people’s experience in Bulgaria and Roumania now!
Thank you Bren.
NEW ZEALAND PASSPORT HOLDERS DO NOT REQUIRE A VISA FOR SHORT TOURIST OR BUSINESS STAYS IN ITALY UP TO 90 DAYS.
The 90 days visa-free period is available for stays within the Schengen area.
We advise not to overstay the 90 days period as the Italian border authorities may not recognise additional visa-free days on the base of the Bilateral agreement signed on 25 January 1961.
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ETIAS for New Zealander Citizens
Etias eligibility.
New Zealand will be a launch member of the ETIAS New Zealander citizens will be eligible to apply for ETIAS in 2025 New Zealander citizens will benefit from a using an online application system to apply for ETIAS
Other ETIAS Requirements
New Zealander citizens can apply for ETIAS online ETIAS is valid for arrival to Europe by air, sea or overland Travellers must have an e-passport that is machine readable ETIAS is for short tourist, business, transit and medical visits Applicants under the age of 18 or over the age of 70 will receive their ETIAS free of charge
New Zealander citizens will be required to apply for an ETIAS to enter participating European countries on a short term basis, under 90 days, for general tourism, business, transit or medical purposes.
The ETIAS program will be in force from 2025 onward and is intended to screen travellers arriving from overseas as a response to the global increase in terrorist activities.
The ETIAS program was approved in 2016, and will take four years to develop the required systems that would tie in with existing immigration databases and other security data to provide a seamless new screening tool across the participating European countries.
In the year 2025, citizens from New Zealand will be required to complete an ETIAS application prior to boarding an aircraft, sea carrier, or coach vehicle for Europe, and this includes travellers who will only be transiting in Europe en route to other destinations.
Any New Zealander citizen that wishes to enter Europe for over 90 days, or for other purposes than those allowed under the ETIAS program will need to apply for a Schengen visa. Further details can be found by visiting https://etias.com/ and using the homepage assessment.
It is advised that New Zealander citizens complete their ETIAS application 96 hours prior to their departure date. Full details can be found by visiting the ETIAS requirements page or the ETIAS FAQ's . It is advised to review these pages prior to starting an ETIAS application to avoid any delays or the risk of an ETIAS being refused.
Starting in 2025, it will be a requirement to be a full New Zealander citizen before applying for an ETIAS, so travellers holding a passport or travel document with a different status may be required to apply for a full Schengen visitor visa, and not an ETIAS.
New Zealander citizens can expect their ETIAS application to normally be processed and approved within minutes, and the authorisation is sent by email in the form of a PDF document. There is no need to print or present any documents as the ETIAS is stored electronically against the passport details stored in the European Immigration system.
ETIAS Benefits
- ETIAS is valid for 3 years from date of issue
- Can be used for multiple entries under a 90 day duration
- Fast authorisation and electronic delivery
- Apply on desktop, tablet or mobile
ETIAS Application Advice
- Submit application at least 96 hours before departure
- If denied for an ETIAS, travellers can still apply for full visitor visa
- An ETIAS does not guarantee entry to Europe as the final decision is made by the border security personnel of the European country of arrival.
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TRAVEL & STUDY
Travel & study.
Useful information on travelling from New Zealand to the EU, such as visas, travel restrictions and consulates, and for studying there
* Disclaimer *
The information in this page is for guidance only and does not replace or substitute national legislation. Please contact the diplomatic mission of the country you intend to visit for up to date travel information. If you are subject to special circumstances (e.g. conviction, intending to work, get married, join partner or family for a long stay etc.) or if you have any doubts please contact the relevant diplomatic mission. It is subject to change due to the evolving global Covid-19 situation.
On This Page
Entry into europe and travel within europe, schengen area, short stays in the schengen area (less than 3 months), longer/working/studying stays in schengen area, travelling to new zealand, more information about entering and travelling around new zealand, european union representation to new zealand, study programmes, european union information centres.
Currently, New Zealand residents may travel to the EU for non-essential purposes. The conditions of travel may change, however, due to epidemiological conditions. People considering travel to the EU from New Zealand are advised to check the EU’s status of travel and travel conditions and advice from the EU country they plan to enter first.
For travel within the EU, Re-Open EU provides information on the various measures in place, including on quarantine and testing requirements for travellers, the EU Digital COVID certificate to help you exercise your right to free movement, and mobile coronavirus contact tracing and warning apps.
The Schengen Area is 26 European countries that have mutually decided to eliminate passport and immigration controls at their joint borders. Within the Schengen Area, concurrently, the citizens of these 26 European countries are free to travel in and out of this zone as one single country sharing equal international travel rights. The citizens of the Schengen zone countries cherish the right to migrate internationally without any limitations, the basis of free movement, one of the basic human rights. For more information please visit http://www.schengenvisainfo.com/
The Schengen Area countries are: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland, Spain and Sweden.
When travelling to the European Union please bear in mind that not all EU Member-States belong to the Schengen Area . Of these countries, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus and Romania have unilaterally recognised certain documents (e.g. a Schengen visa) as equivalent to their national visas for transit through or intended stays on their territories not exceeding 90 days in any 180-day period.
When travelling to the Schengen Area, foreign citizens must apply for a Schengen short-stay visa, which enables them to travel freely throughout the Schengen Area for a maximum period of 90 days in any 180-day period (with multiple entries and exits).
New Zealand is however on a list of third-countries (outside the European Union, the European Economic Area and the Schengen Zone) whose citizens do NOT require a visa to visit the Schengen Area for less than 90 days within a 180-day period .
New Zealand citizens benefit from this short-stay visa waiver, as long as they (a) do not intend to work; (b) hold a passport valid for at least 3 months after date of return; and (c) have a return ticket .
New Zealand nationals are advised to ensure that their passport is stamped on entry and exit at the external borders of the Schengen Area. It is important to have evidence of the date of entry into the Schengen Area for any potential subsequent contact with local police or other authorities. Border officials in EU countries may ask for other supporting documents such as for example an invitation letter, proof of lodging, return or round-trip ticket. For the precise requirements contact the local consular services of the Schengen country in question.
For stays in the territory of the Schengen Area which are longer than 90 days within any 180-day period, or for studying or working purposes, a national visa of the respective Schengen country is required.
For more information please consult: http://www.schengenvisainfo.com/schengen-visa-types/
It is highly recommended that you consult the country's consular offices of your destination , in order to obtain more detailed information and/or make your visa application. Scroll to the bottom for EU countries with consular offices in New Zealand.
General Advice New Zealand is considered one of the safest and more welcoming countries in the world, with record low crime rates. However, this does not mean that crime does not occur. Like everywhere, common sense and vigilance should be exercised at all times
Visiting New Zealand
Some visitors and transit passengers can travel to New Zealand without a visa if they get an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before they travel. This is valid for many visits and up to 2 years. A list of visa waiver countries and territories can be found here . To find more information click here .
When EU citizens are only passing through New Zealand, as travellers in transit, they do not need a transit visa. However, please note that if you are transiting through Australia on the way to New Zealand, you may need to apply for an Australian visa .
Longer stays/working/studying in new Zealand
For stays exceeding 3 months an appropriate visa is required.
You can consult the visa type needed and all requirements here .
Biosecurity
New Zealand has strict biosecurity procedures at airports and ports to prevent the introduction of unwanted pests and diseases. These are much stricter than in Europe. Arriving passengers are required to declare any and all of the following items : Food (any type of fruits), Plant and plant products (including souvenirs and other items made of wood, straw, shells etc.), live animals, animal products, salt and freshwater products and items associated with water (including holy water), used sporting and camping equipment (including hiking shoes).
If you have any items you are unsure about, you are required to declare it before the biosecurity process or dispose of it. Amnesty bins are located throughout ports and airports. Failing to do so will result in a fine.
Driving in New Zealand
New Zealanders drive on the left-hand side of the road and some roads are narrow, windy and have loose gravel. It is recommended to give yourself more time to reach your destination than that advised by your travel guide or GPS.
Driving licence
Overseas drivers, who do not hold a permanent visa, are regarded as 'visiting drivers' and may use their valid overseas licence to drive. If the licence is not in English the driver must have in addition either an international driving licence (recommended) or a certified English translation of the licence. All drivers must carry their licence or permit at all times when driving.
Most EU countries with accreditation to New Zealand have their Embassies located in either Wellington or Canberra.
There are eight EU Member States Embassies based in Wellington: France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, The Netherlands, Poland, and Spain.
Fifteen EU Countries who are based in Canberra are also accredited to New Zealand: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Greece, Ireland, Malta, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia and Sweden.
The Estonian and Lithuanian Ambassadors to New Zealand are resident in Tokyo and Latvia's in London. Bulgaria and Luxembourg are not accredited to New Zealand at this stage. Bulgaria's consular affairs are dealt by their Embassy in Canberra while Luxembourg's are dealt by the Embassy of The Netherlands in Wellington.
To cover the ground in the absence of full Embassies in New Zealand - and to have a wider reach outside Wellington for those with Embassies - Consuls-General and Honorary Consuls represent EU/Schengen countries in the main cities of New Zealand - Auckland, Wellington, Napier, Christchurch, Queenstown and Dunedin.
Erasmus+ is the European Union’s programme for education, training, youth and sport. Between 2014 and 2020, it will provide opportunities for four million people to study, train and gain life experience abroad.
See the Erasmus+ web portal’s Resources section for information about linguistic support, documents for applicants and the management of proposals.
EU Visitor Programme
The EUVP is jointly sponsored and administered by the European Parliament and the European Commission and has been in operation since 1974. New Zealand and Australia have participated in the programme since 1983 sending over 138 visitors to Europe during that time.
Supported and established by the European Union, European Union Information Centres stock official publications, documents and information about and by the European Union. They can help you find information on a variety of subjects including European law, integration, policies and EU institutions.
University of Canterbury
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Contact: Janette Nicolle Tel: (0 3) 364 2987 (ext 7035) Fax: (0 3) 364 2483 [email protected] http://library.canterbury.ac.nz/eu/
Visa for New Zealand passport holders
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Switzerland and New Zealand
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- Visa & entry to Switzerland
- Visa – Entry to and residence in Switzerland
New Zealand citizens do NOT require a visa to enter the Schengen area.
Moreover a bilateral visa waiver agreement signed between Switzerland and New Zealand allows holders of New Zealand passports to stay in Switzerland up to 90 days irrespectively from other periods spent in other Schengen countries. In this case, New Zealand nationals are advised to carry evidence of the period spent in Switzerland (e.g. passport stamps, accommodation receipts, ATM slips).
New Zealand signed bilateral visa waiver agreement with other Schengen countries. In order to find out more, it is suggested to contact directly the Embassies of the countries you are interested in travelling to.
New Zealand citizens benefit from this short-stay visa waiver, as long as they:
(a) do not intend to work;
(b) hold a passport valid for at least 3 months after date of departure;
(c) have a return ticket.
Border officials in EU countries may ask for other supporting documents such as for example an invitation letter, proof of lodging, return or round-trip ticket.
New Zealand nationals are advised to ensure that their passport is stamped on entry and exit at the external borders of the Schengen Area. It is important to have evidence of the date of entry into the Schengen Area for any potential subsequent contact with local police or other authorities. It is also advisable to retain some informal evidence of time spent in particular Schengen countries (e.g. accommodation receipts, ATM slips).
Hefty fines might apply in case of overstay, as well as prohibition to enter Switzerland and the Schengen area for up to three years.
The following webpage of the European Commission provides an explanation on the calculation of the duration of stays in order to comply with this rule: European Commission – Migration and Home Affairs – Border crossing
New Zealand citizens who wish to study, work or simply stay more than 90 days in Switzerland require a residence permit and need to contact, directly or through the future employer or school in Switzerland, the cantonal migration authority of the canton (states) where they wish to study, work or stay.
In case of employment with an international organisation in Geneva , Switzerland, with a headquarters agreement, the international organisation in Geneva will request the issuing of a Federal Department of Foreign Affairs FDFA legitimation card through the Permanent Mission of Switzerland to the United Nations Office and to the other international organisations in Geneva, Section of Privileges and Immunities , upon arrival in Switzerland.
Persons travelling on a New Zealand passport can therefore travel to Switzerland without a visa or without assurance of residence permit in order to take up an employment with an International Organisation in Geneva.
For more information: safetravel NZ
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Travel information
Find out how to check your passport is valid, where to find safe travel information, and how to look after your passport while you're travelling.
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Check the expiry date on your passport.
The expiry date is on the photo page of your passport. If your passport is due to expire in less than a year, you may need to renew your passport before you travel.
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Check you have enough empty visa pages
If you travel often, your passport may have been stamped many times.
If your passport does not have at least 1 empty visa page, or pages with enough room to place a stamp, you may be refused entry and your travel could be delayed.
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Damage to your passport may affect your photo and the performance of the security chip that contains your personal information.
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Before you travel, check SafeTravel to find out if the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade has issued any travel advisories for the countries you are travelling to.
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For visa information and entry requirements, contact the embassy or high commission of the country you are travelling to.
Travelling to the United States
If you want to travel to, or transit through, the United States under their Visa Waiver Programme, you must apply for an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before you travel.
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New Zealanders travelling to Australia can use their passport until the date it is due to expire.
Find out more about visiting or moving to Australia
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What is an ePassport?
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eGates use the data in an ePassport and facial recognition technology to do customs and immigration checks, allowing faster processing at the border.
Find out more about eGates
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In the future, passports will be issued in the name of the new sovereign. All passports issued until then will bear the name of Her Majesty the Queen.
Your passport is still valid until it expires. The expiry date is on the inside cover of your passport.
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Do you need a visa for Europe?
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Whether you need to obtain a visa for your travels to Europe largely depends on which country your passport is from and which European country you're travelling to with a Schengen Agreement in place for 26 countries including Italy , France , Germany , and Spain that allows visa-free travel between them.
Passport holders from over 150 countries will need to obtain a Schengen Visa before arriving in their European destination of choice, however, there are some nationals that don't require a visa at all, just a passport with at least 6 months validity and an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) travel authorisation. These nationals can move between the countries part of the Schengen Agreement for a period of up to 90 days within a 6-month period.
The countries that don't require their nationals to obtain a visa include:
- New Zealand
- United Kingdom
- United States
For the full list of countries that do and do not require a visa to travel to Europe, please visit the Online Visa Global Travel Services website.
Passport holders from a country that's part of the Schengen Agreement follow a different set of travel requirements if their final destination is a country that's also part of the agreement. For example, if a national from France is travelling to Germany, they don't need to present a passport at the airport or to immigration officials to be granted access to the country. They can also stay in that country for an unlimited amount of time. You can find the full list of Schengen countries here.
However, it's important to remember that obtaining a Schengen visa or an ETIAS doesn't automatically mean you'll be granted access upon your arrival to your preferred European country. Regardless of the visa requirements, you'll still need to clear immigration once you've landed and it's up to these officials to grant you access to the country.
Applying for a Schengen visa is relatively straightforward and easy with the best way being to visit an embassy, government office, or consulate of the European country you're arriving into. Make sure you schedule this visit well before your intended arrival in Europe (you can do this online or by calling the embassy/consulate) as it can take up to 3 weeks for the application process to be completed. There are some variations within this time frame - it could take less time or it could take more - so it's always better to leave at least a couple of months between applying and your arrival date to avoid any potential disruption to your travel plans.
Before your appointment, you'll need to download the application form and fill it in. The form will require you to provide your personal information, any background information that might be relevant to your application, why you're requesting a Schengen visa and other details regarding your travel itinerary and country movements.
You'll need to print out two copies of the fully filled-in form and bring them with you to your visa appointment, along with your passport, photos, travel insurance, flight itinerary (including your return flights), proof of accommodation, and proof of financial stability (bank statements).
Once your visa interview is completed, you'll have to pay for the application before it can be processed. The cost of the visa can vary but you can expect to pay around AUD$129, however, this fee can be reduced depending on the individual situation. For more detailed information regarding visa requirements, please visit your nearest embassy or consulate.
Getting an ETIAS online visa waiver is as simple as applying for a Schengen visa; all you have to do is fill out an online form with your basic personal, passport, and travel information, and answer some security questions, before submitting your application. Once completed, you'll have to pay the application fee with your preferred method of payment. The cost of this fee is subject to change but it's usually no more than AUD$4.50.
Once your payment has gone through, your application will start being processed. This is almost instantaneous and will automatically be linked electronically to your passport, although you will get an email notifying you of this so feel free to print this out and carry it with you on your travels as hard-copy proof.
To start your application, please visit the ETIAS Visa website.
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ETIAS Visa Waiver for New Zealand Citizens
Learn more about the EU and ETIAS travel authorization
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Get notified when ETIAS is mandatory
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Start ETIAS Application online
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Receive ETIAS confirmation
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Welcome to Europe
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Visa Waiver for New Zealanders traveling to Europe
New Zealand passport holders can travel to Europe without requiring a European visa. New Zealand citizens can enter all Schengen member states for short-term stays by simply showing their passports to immigration officials upon arrival. The privilege is due to the island country being a member of the European Visa-Exempt Program. ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System – European Travel Information and Authorisation System) aims to improve security and strengthen border control within the Schengen area. The main goal is to ensure the safety of Europeans and visitors. However, New Zealand citizens who wish to travel to Europe in 2025 will need to apply online to get an ETIAS visa exemption.
ETIAS Requirements for New Zealand Citizens
New Zealand Citizens must apply for the Schengen visa if traveling for long-term purposes. The visa requirements do not apply for citizens who travel to Europe from New Zealand for less than 90 days. For entry to the European Union as a tourist or leisure visitor, travelers must simply present the NZ passport at the Schengen Member State border. The changes within the travel requirements will come into full force by the end of 2025. An EU visa waiver for New Zealander citizens will be a mandatory requirement who visit Europe. Along with their national passports, NZ travelers must carry an approved ETIAS visa waiver to enter Europe. New Zealanders who travel to Europe in late 2025 will need to register online before they depart to receive the Schengen Area travel authorization. The ETIAS visa waiver will be made available via an easy-to-use online application. • A valid New Zealand passport that can be machine-readable and has at least three months before departure. • Debit or credit card to pay the ETIAS fee. • Valid email address to receive the approved ETIAS Visa Waiver
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These are the primary ETIAS conditions for New Zealand citizens wishing to visit any Schengen Member States. The Schengen Area consists of 26 European countries that have agreed to unite passport and border control. The Schengen Area includes EU member countries such as Austria and Belgium, and the Czech Republic. Denmark, Estonia. Finland, France. Germany. Greece. Hungary. Italy. Latvia. Lithuania. Luxembourg. Malta. Spain. Slovenia. It also includes four countries that aren’t EU members: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, and the microstates Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City. New Zealanders will be granted entry to any of the above countries with the new ETIAS electronic trip authorization. They will also travel freely between these countries with approved ETIAS. Travelers can stay up to 90 days within Europe with the European visa waiver. ETIAS is a multiple-entry travel waiver. Citizens can enter and leave all Member States if they do not exceed the 90-day limit. New Zealand passport holders should be aware that Ireland and the United Kingdom are not members of the Schengen Area. These countries have not chosen to participate in ETIAS, so visiting either country will not require a European visa waiver travel authorization. Additionally, Schengen Area membership, as expected, might be extended to other EU countries like Romania, Bulgaria, and Croatia. Therefore, NZ tourists who plan to travel to these countries will likely need an ETIAS. ETIAS representatives shall update additional information such as the required documents for New Zealanders applying for an ETIAS and the countries citizens will have entry when they travel with this electronic travel authorization. Once information is available, we will update this website with details about ETIAS and how it affects New Zealanders traveling to European countries. New Zealanders must apply for ETIAS travel authorizations before leaving New Zealand to allow enough processing time and screening.
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Get notified when ETIAS becomes mandatory
Etias required.
These countries will require an ETIAS visa waiver upon their arrival on their territory.
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EU Visa Waiver Application for New Zealand Citizens
As of 2025, the ETIAS visa waiver is a legal requirement to allow New Zealanders into the Schengen area. You can obtain the visa waiver online by accessing the ETIAS application from your smartphone, tablet, or desktop computer. The process is straightforward. New Zealanders who apply for an ETIAS must provide basic personal information, such as the below: • Full name • Date and birthplace • Street address • Phone number • Exact passport information such as country of issue, expiration date, and expiration date should be available
Citizens of NZ who complete the online ETIAS application will have to disclose some of these details: • Criminal records • History of employment • Use of drugs • Ties with human trafficking • History of deportation from the EU Member States or prior travel to conflict zones • Information about European trips in the past
The application for ETIAS should be easy and quick. It should take NZ citizens less than 10 minutes to complete the form. Double-checking is necessary to ensure the smooth processing of their ETIAS request. It is good to read through all information before applying for a European visa waiver. Doing this will ensure no typographical errors or inconsistencies, as any mistakes could cause delays. The final step in the ETIAS travel authorization process is payment. The applicants can make the payment with a debit or credit card. After the application has been submitted, officials will check it against European border security and criminal databases. ETIAS checks aim to detect potential threats and enhance security measures for residents and visitors. The information provided in the ETIAS application allows European immigration officials pre-screen all citizens who intend to visit the Schengen Zone. All data submitted on the Europe Visa Waiver Application are checked against multiple security databases managed and maintained by the European Union Agency for the Operational Management of Large-Scale IT Systems within the Area of Freedom, Security, and Justice, also known as EU-LISA.
Some security databases used for screening include: • VIS is a database that compiles information about visas • SIS is a European shared database identifying criminal records, missing persons, and theft. • EURODAC is a database that collects fingerprint information
ETIAS is a set of security processes and procedures designed to identify illegal entry into the Schengen Area or identity theft. Suppose an NZ citizen submits a form that raises red flags in its automated screening against the security database. In that case, the ETIAS staff will manually process the application. A manual assessment by the European Coast Guard or Border Guard will undoubtedly result in a more extended processing and delivery time. If the citizen is involved in serious criminal activity, an ETIAS visa waiver will be rejected.
ETIAS - Travel from New Zealand to Europe
After the travel authorization has been approved, the ETIAS will go to the applicant’s email. It will be in PDF format. Since applicants will not receive any physical documents, their passports will be digitally linked. The passports will reflect their status as ETIAS holders for immigration officials. The ETIAS visa waiver is available to New Zealanders for three years starting at the date of approval. It allows unlimited entry into the Schengen area. Dual citizens must ensure that they travel with the same passport number as the user entered when filling out the ETIAS online form. You cannot transfer it onto a different passport like other travel authorizations. The electronic travel authorization shall become null if a traveler’s passport expires before the expiration of the 3-year ETIAS validity period. New Zealanders will need to apply for an ETIAS renewal if they lose their passport or are denied a visa.
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New Zealand's bilateral agreements with European countries
New Zealand’s government has reached a bilateral agreement with many European countries. These agreements allow citizens of New Zealand to visit these countries for longer than the existing 90-day visa-free permit. Any passport that meets the validity requirements issued by New Zealand may be used for extended stays in the following countries: • Belgium (2 months) • Denmark (3 months) • Germany (3 Months) • Italy (3 Months) • Luxembourg (90 days) • Netherlands (90 Days) • Iceland (3 Months) • Liechtenstein (90 days) • Norway (90 Days) • Switzerland (90 days) New Zealanders with an ordinary passport is allowed to enter the following countries during the additional period: • Greece for 90 days • Spain (90 Days) • France (90 Days) • Austria (3 Months) • Portugal (90 Days) • Finland (90 Days) • Sweden (3 months) New Zealanders can also enter Austria with an official, diplomatic, or service passport, which allows them to stay for up to three months after the 90-day visa-free period in the UE. A bilateral agreement refers to a contract signed with a particular government. New Zealanders cannot travel visa-free to any country where the deal is not applicable. They must stay within the relevant country for the duration of the reciprocal arrangement. Those who wish to visit more than one Schengen member state visa-free in one trip should apply for an ETIAS Visa Waiver. The bilateral agreements between the NZ-EU Member States may differ depending on the new legislation.
FAQs for New Zealand citizens applying for ETIAS
Can’t find what you are looking for? Reach out to our customer support team.
No. New Zealand citizens can travel to Europe without a visa for stays less than 90 days. If any of the travelers plan to remain in Schengen Area for more than 90 days they need to apply for the Schengen visa designated for the appropriate travel purpose (work, study, living)
Up to 3 months. New Zealand citizens are allowed to travel short-term to EU without any visa requirements. It includes the leisure, business and medical purposes. However, for the purposes for traveling for studying, working or living in the EU, or any other long-term plans, New Zealanders need to apply for the Schengen visa.
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Get a visa to visit another country
Check which visas you'll need and organise to get them well ahead of your travel dates.
What type of visa you’ll need
Different countries have different rules — some countries allow you to stay for certain periods without a visa. If you do not have the correct visa you can be refused entry. The type of visa you need will depend on:
- the country you’re travelling to
- the passport you hold
- the purpose of your trip
- the length of your stay.
You can find out about the visa you’ll need from:
- the foreign representative to NZ of the country you want to visit (for example, embassies, high commissions or consulates)
- your travel agent.
Find an embassy, high commission or consulate
Applying for your visa
Different countries have different application processes — getting a visa can often take weeks, so make sure you give yourself enough time. Also make sure you have a valid passport when applying for a visa.
A visa does not always mean you’ll be able to travel
Having a visa does not mean you’ll be allowed to enter another country — you’ll still have to clear customs and immigration when you arrive.
Who to contact for more help
If you need more help or have questions about the information or services on this page, contact the following agency.
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There is an increased global risk of terrorism. No country is immune from a terrorist attack, and no person is immune from becoming a victim of an attack. Terrorists have little regard for civilian casualties and, in many cases, attacks are designed to maximise casualties.
Although New Zealand travellers are unlikely to be targeted deliberately, they are usually indistinguishable from any “Western” tourist, and frequent places where other Western tourists are found. This puts New Zealanders at the same risk as others.
Wherever you are, you should keep yourself informed about the latest alerts and stay aware of your surroundings in areas where large numbers of people congregate, such as shopping malls, markets, tourist sites, monuments, demonstrations and on any public transport.
Terrorist attacks have taken place in many major European cities and the region remains vulnerable to attacks from Islamic and other extremist groups.
In Russia, Moscow has experienced a number of bombings carried out by Chechen separatists. They have been responsible for a series of incidents in towns in southern Russia (the northern Caucasus) and particularly the province of Chechnya itself.
In Türkiye, Kurdish separatists have carried out attacks in Istanbul and other areas popular with tourists. Such attacks are likely to continue.
Do not travel
Destinations in Europe where we advise against all travel.
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Do not travel within 5km of the border with Azerbaijan or to the Nagorno-Karabakh region due to the risk of armed conflict (level 4 of 4).
Do not travel to Belarus due to the volatile security situation caused by the Russian military action in neighbouring Ukraine and the conducting of military operations by Russian forces from Belarus (level 4 of 4) . New Zealanders in Belarus should leave immediately if they judge it is safe to do so.
New Zealand’s ability to provide consular assistance to New Zealanders in Belarus is very limited. The security situation in Belarus could change at short notice and New Zealanders should not rely on support with evacuating in these circumstances.
Do not travel to Transnistria due to the volatile security situation (as the region is not under the control of the Moldovan authorities) as well the military conflict in neighbouring Ukraine (level 4 of 4).
Do not travel to Russia due to the impacts the armed conflict with Ukraine has had on commercial flight availability and access to financial services. There is also potential for the security situation to deteriorate with little warning (level 4 of 4).
Do not travel to Chechnya, Dagestan, Ingushetia, Kabardino-Balkaria, Karachai-Cherkessia, Republic of North Ossetia and the south-east parts of Stavropol Krai in the North Caucasian Federal District (level 4 of 4). Terrorism, kidnapping and military activity in these areas presents a significant risk to security.
Do not travel within 10 kilometres of the border with Syria due to the threat of terrorism, kidnapping and the potential for violence associated with the ongoing conflict in Syria (level 4 of 4).
Do not travel to Ukraine due to Russia’s invasion and ongoing military aggression (level 4 of 4). There is a real risk to life.
New Zealanders currently in Ukraine are advised to depart as soon as it is safe to do so. The New Zealand Government is severely limited in its ability to provide consular assistance to New Zealand citizens in Ukraine.
Avoid non-essential travel
Destinations in Europe where we advise against tourist and other non-essential travel.
Avoid non-essential travel to North Mitrovica and the northern municipalities of Leposavić, Zubin Potok and Zvečan due to ethnic tensions, politically-motivated violence and civil unrest (level 3 of 4).
Avoid non-essential travel to the provinces of Hakkari and Sirnak in south-east Türkiye due to the unpredictable security situation and the threat of terrorism and kidnapping (level 3 of 4).
Exercise increased caution
Destinations in Europe where we advise caution.
Exercise increased caution in Albania due to the threat of crime (level 2 of 4).
We advise that New Zealanders exercise increased caution in Austria (level 2 of 4).
Exercise increased caution in Belgium due to the ongoing threat of terrorism (level 2 of 4).
Exercise increased caution in Croatia (level 2 of 4).
Exercise increased caution in Cyprus (level 2 of 4).
Exercise increased caution in Denmark due to the threat of terrorism (level 2 of 4).
Exercise increased caution in Finland (level 2 of 4).
Exercise increased caution in France due to the ongoing threat of terrorism (level 2 of 4) .
Exercise increased caution in Germany due to the ongoing threat of terrorism (level 2 of 4).
Exercise increased caution in Italy (level 2 of 4).
Exercise increased caution elsewhere in Kosovo due to the potential for civil unrest (level 2 of 4).
Exercise increased caution elsewhere in Moldova due to the volatile security environment and military conflict in neighbouring Ukraine (level 2 of 4).
The New Zealand Government is limited in its ability to provide consular assistance to New Zealand citizens in Moldova, particularly in the Transnistria region.
We advise New Zealanders to exercise increased caution in the Slovak Republic (level 2 of 4).
Exercise increased caution in Spain due to the ongoing threat of terrorism (level 2 of 4).
Exercise increased caution in Sweden due to the threat of terrorism (level 2 of 4).
Exercise increased caution in the Netherlands due to the threat of terrorism (level 2 of 4).
Exercise increased caution elsewhere in Türkiye, including in Ankara and Istanbul, due to the heightened threat of terrorism (level 2 of 4).
Exercise increased caution in the United Kingdom due to the threat of terrorism (level 2 of 4).
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Exercise normal safety and security precautions
Destinations in Europe where we advise normal.
Exercise normal safety and security precautions elsewhere in Armenia (level 1 of 4).
Exercise normal safety and security precautions in Greece (level 1 of 4).
Exercise normal safety and security precautions in Hungary (level 1 of 4).
Exercise normal safety and security precautions in Ireland (level 1 of 4).
Exercise normal safety and security precautions in Luxembourg (level 1 of 4).
Exercise normal safety and security precautions in Norway (level 1 of 4).
Exercise normal safety and security precautions in Poland (level 1 of 4).
Exercise normal safety and security precautions in Serbia (level 1of 4).
Exercise normal safety and security precautions in Switzerland (level 1 of 4).
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Travel Advisories in Europe
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Europe Passport Requirements: What You Need to Know Before Travel
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Kate H. Knapp
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Europe is a prime travel destination with 50 incredible countries to visit. It’s important to know what travel documents may be required before you go, however. Each country in Europe has different passport requirements to enter, but all require a valid U.S. passport when arriving from an international destination. Europe passport requirements allow that once you arrive, you can travel between certain countries without a passport, according to the Schengen Agreement , but you will need a passport to cross borders into those that are not part of the Schengen area and when you return home.
A good rule of thumb when visiting most European destinations is to carry a U.S. passport that has at least one blank page for an entry stamp and is valid for at least six months beyond your departure date. Be sure to check for any other requirements in the country you are visiting as soon as you book your tickets.
Europe Passport Requirements
Europe’s passport requirements vary for each of its 50 countries. Each country enforces its own mandatory rules for entering. All of them, however, require a passport for those traveling from an international destination, so it’s wise to make sure you obtain a passport as far in advance as possible before you travel. Most European passport requirements dictate at least one blank page for an entry stamp and a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond your departure date.
As for traveling within Europe, some countries require a passport to cross borders, but 26 countries are a party to the Schengen Agreement , which means you do not need a passport to travel between these countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. There are three islands that are also part of the Schengen Zone, even though their borders are outside of the continent: The Azores, Madeira, and the Canary Islands.
How to Get a Passport Book for Travel to Europe
Apply for a passport as soon as your travel to Europe is confirmed. The cost will be greater if you apply for a passport within three weeks of travel time and need an expedited application. You can learn more about the requirements and documents needed to obtain a U.S. passport here .
If you already have a valid passport book, make sure it is valid for at least six months after your departure date and has at least one blank page for an entry stamp. If not, apply for a renewal passport at least three weeks before travel or pay a higher fee for an expedited passport.
Other Europe Travel Requirements
Visa : Varies by each European country
Vaccinations : No
So, Do I Need a Passport to Visit Europe?
In summary: Yes. Europe passport requirements state that a valid U.S. passport is necessary to enter any of its 50 countries. Once you arrive in Europe, you can travel between certain countries without a passport, but you will need a passport when departing. Most European passport requirements dictate a passport that is valid for at least six months after departure date and has at least one blank page for an entry stamp.
More Information When Visiting Europe
The U.S. Department of State provides detailed information, including travel advisories and passport validity requirements, to your destination country.
The European Travel Commission offers insightful tips on places to eat, play, and stay within Europe’s diverse countries and regions.
Protect Your Passport
We recommend investing in a passport cover or wallet to protect your pages from bends, tears and spills. It’s important to keep your passport in good condition for easy inspection.
On travel days, only take your passport out during inspection. Otherwise, keep it stowed away in a dedicated section of your bag (if you keep it in the same place every time, you won’t ever scramble to locate it). Once you arrive at your destination, find a way to stow it securely. In-room safes or safe deposit boxes at the hotel front desk are generally good options, but if neither is available, you’ll need to decide how to keep your passport secure. You might consider keeping it in an under-clothing money belt that you wear, or leaving it in the hotel or vacation rental but locking it in your suitcase with a TSA-approved lock .
![travel to europe on nz passport Zoppen Passport Wallet](https://www.smartertravel.com/wp-content/webp-express/webp-images/doc-root/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Wallet.png.webp)
Dress Up Your Passport
Shop the look.
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Travel Passport Wallet
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Carryall Bag
![travel to europe on nz passport](https://www.smartertravel.com/wp-content/webp-express/webp-images/doc-root/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/red-2.jpg.webp)
Traveler Wallet
![travel to europe on nz passport](https://www.smartertravel.com/wp-content/webp-express/webp-images/doc-root/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/beige.jpg.webp)
Leather Passport Case
![travel to europe on nz passport](https://www.smartertravel.com/wp-content/webp-express/webp-images/doc-root/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/blackbag.jpg.webp)
More from SmarterTravel:
- 5 Exotic Places Where You Don’t Need a Passport
- How to Renew a Passport, Global Entry, and TSA PreCheck—The Ultimate Guide
- How to Take Your Own Passport Photo
Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.
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ETIAS Visa Waiver
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Countries that need ETIAS
When will etias be implemented, etias application process, information about the etias visa waiver for europe.
ETIAS for Europe is a multiple entry travel authorization that allows holders to travel to Schengen countries for a total stay of 90 days per entry, for purposes of tourism, transit, business or medical treatment.
The European Commission is implementing the ETIAS visa waiver program for all nationalities who do not currently need a visa to travel to Europe . The aim behind the ETIAS travel permit is to strengthen and protect the borders of the Schengen passport-free zone.
The new system will prescreen visa-exempt travelers for any potential security or health risks before they even reach European borders. It is expected to come into effect in 2025.
It is important to note that ETIAS is not a visa , but a travel authorization or visa waiver. It is not necessary to visit an embassy in order to apply. The ETIAS application form will be available online.
ETIAS is not a substitute for a student or work visa . Any foreign nationals who wish to live, study, work, or stay in Europe longer than 90 days will be required to apply for another visa from a diplomatic mission of their country of destination.
![travel to europe on nz passport Highlights badge](https://www.handyvisas.com/user/themes/nitro-grav/images/highlights.webp)
ETIAS is expected to be launched in 2025.
ETIAS is not a visa
All visa-exempt travelers need ETIAS
ETIAS application process - 100% online
ETIAS Countries
ETIAS will grant access to many European destinations from 2025. This includes 25 EU countries and 4 non-European Union members : Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland.
Below you can find the list and an map that summarizes the ETIAS countries .
- Czech Republic
- Liechtenstein
- Netherlands
- Switzerland
- Ireland (*)
- Republic of Cyprus (*)
(*) ETIAS visa waiver expected to become a requirement for these countries in the future
The Schengen zone also includes the 3 microstates: Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City, which maintain open or semi-open borders with other Schengen countries.
Croacia, Romania and Bulgaria have now been admitted to Schengen. As a result, air and sea border controls with other Schengen nations have been removed.
Only 2 European Union members have yet to sign the Schengen agreement.
Although Cyprus is not yet part of Schengen, it expected to use the ETIAS.
The Republic of Ireland opted out of the Schengen zone and maintains its own entry requirements.
Below you can find the list and a map that summarizes the ETIAS countries.
Once the ETIAS system is implemented, all foreign citizens who are currently visa-exempt for Europe will be required to get the ETIAS visa waiver before traveling to the Schengen Area for short stays.
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Brunei Darussalam
- El Salvador
- Federated States of Micronesia
- Marshall Islands
- New Zealand
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Solomon Islands
- South Korea
- Timor Leste
- Trinidad and Tobago
- United Arab Emirates
- United States
- United Kingdom
Show more >>
The full list of countries that need ETIAS can be found below. It includes nationals of the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, Brazil, South Korea, Israel, and Mexico.
ETIAS for Europe is a multiple-entry travel authorization . It’s valid for 3 years from the moment it is issued.
What does multiple-entry mean? It means that the ETIAS visa waiver allows you to visit any Schengen zone country during its validity period without having to submit a new ETIAS application before every trip to Europe.
![countries-eligibles-etias-schengen-visa countries-eligibles-etias-schengen-visa](https://www.handyvisas.com/user/sites/www.handyvisas.com/pages/application-guide/etias/_etias-countries/countries-eligibles-etias-schengen-visa.png)
The entire ETIAS application process is done 100% online . There is no need to visit any embassy or consulate belonging to a European country to deal with paperwork in person.
Travelers will need to register with the ETIAS platform to visit any of the countries in the Schengen Area without a visa. This rule will come into effect in 2025.
To apply for ETIAS, travelers must complete the following steps:
![complete-etias-application-form complete-etias-application-form](https://www.handyvisas.com/user/sites/www.handyvisas.com/pages/application-guide/etias/_etias-countries/complete-etias-application-form.png)
Complete the ETIAS registration form using a device connected to the internet
![passport-valid passport-valid](https://www.handyvisas.com/user/sites/www.handyvisas.com/pages/application-guide/etias/_etias-countries/passport-valid.png)
Provide the required items , including a basic personal details, contact details, passport information and questions relating to travel and security
![debit-or-credit-card-fee-etias debit-or-credit-card-fee-etias](https://www.handyvisas.com/user/sites/www.handyvisas.com/pages/application-guide/etias/_etias-countries/debit-or-credit-card-fee-etias.png)
Use a debit or credit card to cover the small ETIAS processing fee
How to Apply for an ETIAS
The ETIAS authorization form is a short questionnaire that must be completed online.
To apply, simply enter the required details into the relevant fields of the form. This information is expected to include the following sections:
![complete-online-application complete-online-application](https://www.handyvisas.com/user/sites/www.handyvisas.com/pages/application-guide/etias/_how-apply-etias/complete-online-application.png)
- Complete the quick ETIAS form online
- Pay ETIAS and processing fees
- Submit the application for screening
![receive-your-ETIAS receive-your-ETIAS](https://www.handyvisas.com/user/sites/www.handyvisas.com/pages/application-guide/etias/_how-apply-etias/receive-your-ETIAS.png)
- Receive the result of your ETIAS application by email
- In the majority of cases, you will receive an Approved ETIAS
- In the rare case that the ETIAS is denied, you will receive further information by email
- The ETIAS visa waiver will be electronically linked to the registered passport
- It is advisable to also print a copy of the ETIAS confirmation
![travel-schengen-area-with-etias travel-schengen-area-with-etias](https://www.handyvisas.com/user/sites/www.handyvisas.com/pages/application-guide/etias/_how-apply-etias/travel-schengen-area-with-etias.png)
- You will need an approved ETIAS visa waiver before boarding a flight to Europe
- Your ETIAS will be verified upon arrival at the border control of the first Schengen country you arrived in
- The ETIAS will be read when your passport is scanned. It is also advisable to have a printed copy to show if asked
Once you have completed the ETIAS form, you will be prompted to pay a small processing fee . You can then submit your ETIAS online application.
Frequently asked questions about the ETIAS
What is the etias visa waiver for schengen countries.
The European Travel Information and Authorization (ETIAS) for the Schengen Area is an electronic visa waiver due to be introduced in 2025. It will permit eligible citizens to travel to and within the Schengen Area countries for short stays.
The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is expected to become obligatory for eligible travelers in 2025 .
The ETIAS system was first proposed by the European Commission in April 2016 and approved in November of that year.
Eu-LISA , the European Union Agency which manages the operations of its large-scale information systems, is responsible for developing the new visa waiver system, as well as for managing the security databases which ETIAS applicants will be checked against.
Once implemented, all visa-exempt travelers planning to visit Schengen countries for short stays will be required to pre-register for an ETIAS travel authorization before they can enter EU borders.
It will also be necessary to submit an ETIAS application for all minors under the age of 18 . Nevertheless, parents and legal guardians are allowed to do this on the minor’s behalf.
What purposes is the ETIAS visa waiver suitable for?
An approved ETIAS travel authorization allows travel to the Schengen Area for business, tourism, transit, or medical purposes .
What is the difference between ETIAS for the Schengen Area and a Schengen visa?
An approved ETIAS visa waiver allows the holder to travel to any of the Schengen Area countries for multiple short stays during its validity. It is only available for citizens of countries who do not need a visa to enter Europe. It can be requested via an online application process.
Unlike ETIAS for Europe, a Schengen visa is typically issued for one specific European country and it is not available through an electronic application. Eligible citizens must apply for a Schengen visa at an embassy or consulate of the specific Schengen country they wish to visit.
How long can I stay in Schengen countries with my ETIAS authorization?
An approved ETIAS authorization permits holders to travel to Schengen countries for stays of up to 90 days per entry within every 180-day period.
What documents do I need to complete the ETIAS online application form?
In order to submit an ETIAS application, it is necessary to have:
- An eligible passport valid for at least 3 months from the intended date of entry to the Schengen Area.
- A valid debit or credit card to pay the ETIAS fee.
- A current email address at which to receive the ETIAS travel permit approval notice.
What to do if my ETIAS application is denied?
The most likely reason for travel authorization to be denied is that there were errors or inconsistencies in the information provided by the applicant. If this could be the case, you are advised to simply reapply for the ETIAS by filling out the online form again.
Take care when typing your answers and double-check all the information before submitting the form.
If your passport is valid for less than 3 months after you are due to arrive in the Schengen Area, the ETIAS may be rejected on these grounds. In this case, renew your passport before applying .
In the unlikely event that you are still unable to obtain an ETIAS, contact the embassy of the European country you plan to visit for more information.
How much is the ETIAS application fee?
According to the latest information, ETIAS registration will cost 7€ when it is launched. This will cover the cost of processing the application. For this fee, you will be able to use your ETIAS for multiple trips to any of the 26 Schengen countries for the next 3 years.
Can I apply for ETIAS now?
No , you cannot apply for the ETIAS visa waiver right now. The online system will go live in 2025 . After this, citizens of visa waiver countries must register with ETIAS to visit the Schengen Area of Europe.
Do I need an ETIAS for European countries for my children?
Yes , it is necessary for all travelers from Europe visa-exempt countries to have an individually approved ETIAS. This includes all children under the age of 18 years old.
How long is an ETIAS Visa Waiver Valid for?
Once approved, the ETIAS travel authorization is valid for 3 years . You may use it to visit the Schengen Area multiple times during this period. It is valid to enter any and all of the member countries.
You can use the ETIAS to spend up to 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area.
How long does it take to obtain an ETIAS authorization?
It will take just a few minutes to complete the ETIAS visa application and submit it for processing.
The ETIAS system is not yet live. Once it is launched, it is expected that applications will be processed very quickly. You should receive confirmation of your travel authorization within a few business days at most .
Travelers are advised not to apply less than 3 days before the journey to the Schengen Area .
Will I need to apply for an Schengen ETIAS for every trip to Schengen countries?
No , it is not necessary to apply for a European travel permit for every trip to a Schengen country. An approved ETIAS is valid for 3 years from the date of issue and it allows holders to travel to the Schengen zone multiple times during its validity.
Can I use my ETIAS for the Schengen Area to travel to other European Union countries?
An approved ETIAS grants the holder permission to travel to all the Schengen countries.
To travel to other European Union nations not included in the Schengen Area it is necessary to apply for a visa for the individual EU country you wish to visit.
If I have dual citizenship, which passport do I use to travel to the Schengen zone?
Applicants with dual citizenship must use the same passport to complete their ETIAS application they will later use to travel to the Schengen zone.
The approved visa waiver is electronically linked to the individual travel document. If your passport expires during the validity of the ETIAS, it is necessary to submit a new application.
Am I guaranteed admission to Schengen countries with my ETIAS Europe visa waiver?
No, the ETIAS travel permit for Europe only grants permission to travel to and within the Schengen Area. The final entry decision is made by the individual immigration officer at the Schengen zone border control.
Do EU citizens need the ETIAS?
Citizens of all the European countries who have signed the Schengen agreement are permitted passport-free travel within Schengen zone borders without the ETIAS .
All citizens of the EU are able to travel within the Schengen Area using either their national ID card or passport and are not subject to any other type of border control.
Schengen Visa Information
All non-visa-exempt citizens who are not eligible to apply for ETIAS will need to obtain a visa to travel to the Schengen Area. This applies no matter the duration or purpose of their stay.
The map above provides visual information about ETIAS eligible countries and Schengen visa countries.
Unlike ETIAS, which permits travel to all of the Schengen countries, a Schengen visa is typically issued for one individual European country .
In order to submit a Schengen visa application, it is necessary to visit the nearest embassy or consulate of the country the traveler wishes to visit.
There are several types of Schengen visas , depending on the purpose and duration of the intended stay in Europe. A Schengen visa may be issued as a single, double, or multiple-entry visa .
The Schengen visa application requirements state that the applicant must attend an embassy appointment with a range of supporting documentation. This includes a valid passport containing at least 2 blank pages, travel insurance covering a stay within Schengen member states, and proof of sufficient financial means to cover the trip.
ETIAS-eligible citizens who wish to spend more than 90 consecutive days , or study, work, or live in Schengen countries, will also be required to apply for a Schengen visa corresponding to the duration and purpose of their intended stay.
International travel requirements
Visa and border entry requirements for international travel.
Each destination may have different requirements and it is your responsibility to understand what you need to do for your entire trip, including connecting flights, transit points and your return journey . Failure to meet these requirements may result in denied boarding at the airport.
- Check if you need to apply for any entry visas or border declaration forms and what timeframe applications need to be completed in.
- Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended travel.
- Protect yourself from unexpected medical costs by purchasing travel insurance with COVID-19 cover.
Entry requirements for Air NZ's direct destinations
We've put together these guides to help you understand the travel requirements for Air New Zealand's direct destinations. If your destination isn't listed below, you can visit the IATA Travel Centre to search visa and passport requirements.
Mainland China
- New Zealand and Australian passport holders are eligible to enter Mainland China visa free for stays up to 15 days, for tourism or business.
- Other travellers who are not citizens of Mainland China may require a tourist or business visa .
- Passengers are no longer required to complete an Electronic Health Declaration Form.
- All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Mainland China have been removed.
- Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for Hong Kong .
- All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Hong Kong have been removed.
- Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for Japan .
- All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Japan have been removed.
- See official requirements for entering, transiting, or departing Singapore.
- All passengers must submit a digital Singapore Arrival Card with a Health Declaration via the SG Arrival Card e-Service .
- All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Singapore have been removed.
South Korea
Passengers travelling on passports from visa-waiver countries may require a K-ETA.
If eligible, please apply for a K-ETA at least 24 hours prior to boarding.
- All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to South Korea have been removed.
- Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for Taiwan .
- All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Taiwan have been removed.
- Ensure you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for travel to and transit through Australia.
- Check if you need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to enter or transit Australia. Unless you are an Australian citizen, you will need a valid Australian visa to enter the country. New Zealand passport holders can apply for a visa upon arrival in the country. All other passport holders, regardless of age, must apply for a visa before leaving home.
- All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Australia have been removed.
Bali, Indonesia
Travel eligibility .
Check you meet entry and immigration requirements for Indonesia .
Before departure:
- For customs clearance, all passengers must complete the Electronic Customs Declaration (ECD) which will generate a unique code which must be presented upon arrival.
- To minimise delays during immigration clearance, we recommend all eligible passengers apply for a Electronic Visitor Visa (E-VOA) prior to arrival.
- All eligible passengers are required to pay a Bali Tourist Levy. You can pay this in advance or on entry to Bali but this may delay your arrival process.
- We recommend you fill out the SATUSEHAT Health Pass before leaving for Bali. You can do so upon arrival but this may cause delays. After completion, save the QR code to present on arrival in Bali.
COVID-19 health & entry requirements
- You no longer need to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination to enter Indonesia or travel domestically.
Reminder: If you're returning to New Zealand, please check the New Zealand Ministry of Primary Industries enhanced procedures in response to the current outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in Bali.
New Zealand
- Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for New Zealand .
- If you are not a New Zealand or Australian citizen, you may need to apply for a visa or a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) at least 72 hours before travelling to or transiting New Zealand.
- All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to New Zealand have been removed.
- All passengers entering New Zealand need to complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration . It's free and can be completed before you travel. Passengers transiting internationally do not need to complete a declaration.
- If you are a New Zealand visa or NZeTA holder, you still need to complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration.
North America
- Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for Canada .
- Find out if you need a visa or Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) for entry or transit.
- All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Canada have been removed.
- Travellers transiting or entering the USA on the non-immigrant Visa Waiver Program must obtain an ESTA at least 72 hours before travel .
- If you already hold a valid United States visa, then you do not need an ESTA.
- An ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
- For check-in, all travellers need to provide their intended accommodation address in the USA, a primary and secondary phone number, and personal email address.
- All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to the USA have been removed.
- If you are a US citizen or resident departing or transiting through select US airports, you may be eligible for TSA PreCheck ®.
Pacific Islands
Cook islands.
- Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for the Cook Islands .
- All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to the Cook Islands have been removed.
- Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for Fiji .
- All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Fiji have been removed.
New Caledonia
- Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for New Caledonia .
- All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to New Caledonia have been removed.
- Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for Niue .
- Flights to Niue are only available through New Zealand. Travellers wanting to visit Niue from outside of New Zealand must meet the border entry requirements for both New Zealand and Niue.
- It is strongly advised that all visitors to Niue are covered by travel insurance.
- All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Niue have been removed.
- Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for Samoa .
- All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Samoa have been removed.
- Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for Tahiti .
- All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Tahiti have been removed.
- Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for Tonga .
- All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Tonga have been removed.
International travel requirements FAQs
Can my children travel as unaccompanied minors.
Yes, children may travel as unaccompanied minors to all Air New Zealand's direct destinations
It is the parent or guardian's responsibility to manage any entry requirements for the child's destination and transit.
For further information, please see Children travelling alone .
What if I want to postpone my travel to a later date?
You can change your booking before the day of your flight.
All our NZ domestic and international fares come with the flexibility to make changes to your travel plans prior to departure. Refer to the fare rules of your ticket to check eligibility and note that change fees and fare difference may apply.
Air New Zealand does not require passengers to provide proof of vaccination or a pre-departure test. We do ask that if you're feeling unwell and test positive for COVID-19, please consider changing your travel plans.
How do I supply proof of a negative pre-departure test?
Most international destinations have removed the need for a pre-departure test.
For the destinations that do require a negative pre-departure test:
- if you're departing from New Zealand, you can call Healthline on 0800 358 5453 or your doctor to find out where you can get tested.
- If you are departing from other international locations, please check your local COVID-19 government website for information on where to get a pre-departure test.
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The Rome Colosseum—there are new border controls planned for travelers to Europe in November
Europe plans to introduce a new biometric passport system in November 2024, followed six months later by a new travel authorization for many of its visitors—here's what travelers need to know.
Europe's New Entry And Exit System (EES) Will Be Live In November 2024
EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson confirmed that the new Entry/Exit system would be deployed on Sunday, 10 November 2024 and that the new process is in the final testing stage.
The EES is a new scheme that uses biometric data to allow short-stay visa holders and visa-exempt travelers to pass through borders into a Schengen-area country. Fingerprints and faces will be scanned as travelers pass through electronic gates.
It is intended that it will replace passport stamps, which are currently used across European countries. However, stamps take time and do not allow countries to record overstayers (people who have stayed longer than they are allowed).
The system will register the person's name, the type of travel document, biometric data (fingerprints and captured facial images), and the date and place of entry and exit.
The Commission calls the EES "the most advanced border management system in the world," ensuring that travelers do not stay in the Schengen area for more than 90 days in any 180 days.
Johansson told reporters, "With the Entry/Exit System, we will know exactly who enters the Schengen area with a foreign passport. We will know if people stay too long, countering irregular migration. And the Entry/Exit System will make it harder for criminals, terrorists, or Russian spies to use fake passports thanks to biometric identification, photos, and fingerprints."
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The Schengen area includes 29 countries—25 of the 27 EU member states and all countries in the European Free Trade Association (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland). This area is 4 million square kilometers and has a population of almost 420 million people, which allows the free flow of these people within this area. Ireland and Cyprus are the two EU countries not currently in the Schengen area.
The EES, Entry and Exit System was initially planned for 2020 but was delayed due to technical issues and again for the Paris Olympic Games.
USA Today suggests that American travelers should allow a bit more time to transfer through European airports after the new system is introduced.
Europe's ETIAS Travel Authorization Will Be Live In 2025
ETIAS , the European Travel Information and Authorisation System will oblige visitors who travel on passports that don't require a visa to apply for authorization before arriving in one of the participating European countries.
According to the EU website , 1.4 billion people from over 60 visa-exempt countries would need travel authorization to enter 30 European countries for a short stay. These travelers come from countries including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, the US, the UK, and the UAE.
The EU Home Affairs Commissioner confirmed that ETIAS will go live approximately six months after the EES, although there is no set date.
It will operate much like the ESTA scheme in the US, where travelers not visiting on a US passport have to register before entering Europe for a fee of $7. Travelers under 18 and over 70 will be exempt from payment. The right to enter will last three years, then travelers must reapply.
The list of European countries that will require ETIAS authorization are listed here .
While authorization will be quick and easy, CNTraveler reports that travelers should apply to ETIAS for the first time at least 96 hours before flight departure.
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European Union to phase out passport stamps, replacing with new digital entry system
The European Union will phase out physical passport stamps for most tourists on Nov. 10 when it launches the new Entry/Exit System, which will use a high-tech scanning process to digitally register non-EU visitors instead of physical stamps.
“At every single airport, every single harbor, every single road into Europe, we will have digital border controls,” EU Comissioner Ylva Johansson said in a statement. “When that happens, it will be goodbye to passport stamping, hello to digital checks.”
Under the new system, visitors entering the E.U. will have their fingerprints and faces scanned digitally upon entry. Those biometrics will be used to confirm a visitor’s entry and exit from the EU.
Need to renew your passport? You can now apply online
Border officers will cross-reference a person’s biometrics with their passport on the first visit, and the information will remain on file once the system is switched on.
To use the system, travelers will need a biometric passport, which the Department of Homeland Security has been offering since 2006.
Visitors to the E.U. who do not have a biometric passport will have to undergo more thorough processing at the border and will not be able to use self-service passport control kiosks.
The E.U.’s EES system is separate from the European Travel Information and Authorization System, which is for visa-exempt travelers who want to visit the EU for short-term stays.
Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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Americans Must Pay For New Visa To Enter Europe In 2025
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- Americans previously never needed a visa to enter Europe. However, US citizens must soon apply for authorization and pay a new visa waiver through ETIAS to enter Europe starting in 2025.
- This new requirement applies to 30 countries in the Schengen Zone to enhance travel safety.
- Applying online in advance and paying the fee ensures swift authorization for ETIAS, which is valid for three years.
Americans who traveled through Europe this summer could be among the last to do so without a new travel requirement. While places like Türkiye have lifted visa requirements for Americans , the European Union wants to add a layer of protection to travelers by requiring citizens of countries outside of the EU, including Americans, to pay for a new visa waiver to enter Europe in 2025.
While many European countries like American visitors , that fondness and eagerness to get them to spend their tourist dollars will not exempt US passport holders from the new visa waiver. Next year, countries in the European Union's Schengen Zone will be participating in the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).
This means that places Americans could go this summer without a visa , including beautiful beach destinations that did not require a visa , will require one starting next year (rather, it's a visa waiver, not an actual visa).
In total, 30 EU countries will require American travelers to submit an application to be processed by the European Travel Information Authorization System, in addition to having a valid passport. While this may seem like an unnecessary step, a few dollars and a quick application process seem like a small price to pay for the ultimate goal of keeping travelers safe and maintaining better border controls.
7 Countries Americans Can't Travel To
Americans can travel to many exotic places around the globe. Some countries, however, are off-limits.
The European Travel Information & Authorization System Is The New Visa Waiver Americans Must Pay For
Americans who want to travel to the 30 countries in the schengen zone must have an authorization processed through etias.
The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is the new travel authorization that Americans must pay for in 2025. While a US passport was enough to travel to 30 countries in the Schengen Zone in the past without a visa, visa-exempt travelers who plan on spending up to 90 days in these countries must now take an extra step to travel to Europe.
For the rest of 2024, Americans can continue to travel to Europe without ETIAS. The new travel authorization is supposed to go into effect in mid-2025. This date is to give the new Entry/Exit System being installed in Europe time to go live and work out any hiccups. However, given that the ETIAS start date was delayed in 2021, 2023, and again in 2024, it remains to be seen if the program will truly go live in 2025.
The goal of ETIAS is to make travel safer in Europe . As such, it is not just Americans that are being singled out for the new travel requirement . Nationals of 60 other countries will also have to apply for ETIAS when traveling to Europe.
While this visa waiver was not required of Americans in the past, it is very similar to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) that the US already requires of other countries' nationals before they travel through the States. Consequently, the concept of ETIAS is not a new thing. It is just new to Americans who used to have all the documentation they needed to travel the world with a passport alone.
10 Visa-Free Countries You Can Visit With Just A Passport In 2024
With the 7th strongest passport in the world, US citizens can choose 187 visa-free travel destinations.
Countries That Will Require European Travel Information & Authorization System In 2025
Countries like france, italy, spain, and more will require americans to obtain etias authorization (and have a valid passport) to be granted entry.
30 countries will require Americans and other visa-free travelers to apply for ETIAS, starting May 2025. Fortunately, once ETIAS has been granted, it is valid for all countries in Europe that require it for three years . As a result, it does not need to be applied for again for every European country visited.
The countries that will require ETIAS to enter in 2025 include:
Be advised that Americans will need to meet specific travel authorization requirements to be allowed entry if traveling to countries outside those requiring ETIAS. This includes both the UK and the Republic of Ireland.
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How To Apply For The European Travel Information & Authorization System Visa Waiver
A quick online application and an $8.00 processing fee are all it takes to receive authorization from etias to enter the eu.
In order to apply for ETIAS, American citizens will need to fill out an online application . This will need to be completed in the weeks before traveling. Some will have their ETIAS application processed and approved in hours, but most will have their ETIAS application authorized in less than a week.
However, in some instances, it can take longer. Therefore, it is recommended by ETIAS.com that the sooner ETIAS is applied for, the better.
"A small percentage of applications may take up to four weeks to process if additional documentation is required from the applicant. If your ETIAS has not yet been approved, and you do not have any other travel authorization, you will not be able to enter a country within the European Union." - ETIAS.com
Given that ETIAS is valid for three years, it may be worth applying and paying the $8.00 fee sooner rather than later to have the ETIAS portion of the travel documents completed and checked off the to-do list if there is a desire to travel to any of the countries in the Schengen Zone in that timeframe.
To ensure there are no issues with the authorization process, Americans need to ensure their passport is not only valid but will not expire within three months of applying for ETIAS . If getting a passport for the first time or renewing a passport, that needs to be done and a new passport in hand before ETIAS will be approved.
The last thing travelers want to do is add another item to their checklist when traveling abroad. However, by having ETIAS go live in 2025, Americans and others traveling to Europe will be that much safer, which is a concern for many traveling abroad today.
News centre
Apply early for your new zealand visitor visa.
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is expecting to receive over 260,000 visitor visa applications over the summer peak processing period and is encouraging prospective travellers to submit their visitor visa applications as soon as possible.
INZ’s Director Visa, Jock Gilray says that given the high volumes of visitor visa applications expected applying early is essential to ensure people travelling to New Zealand have the peace of mind of knowing their visa is sorted before they make their travel arrangements.
“New Zealanders are looking forward to welcoming friends, family and tourists from all over the world this summer.
That’s why we are asking that anyone who plans to travel to New Zealand for Christmas to submit their application no later than 15 October 2024. Anyone travelling in the New Year, including Chinese Lunar New Year, should submit their application no later than 15 November 2024.”
Applications submitted after these dates may not be processed in time for their intended travel dates.
In addition to submitting applications well in advance, INZ strongly encourages travellers to provide complete applications with all necessary documentation as this helps the speed of application processing.
Jock Gilray adds, "Applications that are missing supporting documents or English translations are more likely to be declined. Making a complete visitor visa application early means you will receive your visa decision sooner, enabling you to spend more time planning your trip to New Zealand.’
Here are some tips to help INZ process your visitor visa more quickly:
- Valid Passport: Make sure your passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond your departure from New Zealand. This also applies to the passports of any accompanying travellers.
- Clear Passport Scan: Include a clear, scanned copy of the photo page in your passport in your visa application.
- Acceptable Photo: Provide a photo that meets the specific requirements to avoid processing delays.
- Accurate Details: Double-check your personal information, such as name, passport number, and date of birth, to ensure it matches your passport and prevents issues with boarding your flight.
- Genuine Intentions: Submit documentation that demonstrates your intention to visit New Zealand temporarily and return home afterward.
- English Documentation: Provide supporting documents in English or provide an English translation for non-English documents.
More information is available in our news centre.
Notes to editor
The Government decided that increases to visa charges, made up of fees and levies, are being introduced on 1 October 2024.
Passport holders of some countries and territories do not have to apply for a visa before they travel to New Zealand but must hold an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority).
Visa waiver countries and territories
In the 2023 calendar year:
- more than one million visas were decided.
- there was strong demand from people wanting to visit New Zealand, with and more than 505,000 Visitor Visa applications decided.
- more than 1.5 million NZeTA requests were decided.
Media contact: [email protected]
- Immigration rules and processes
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New Zealand is gravely concerned by the impact of this conflict on civilians. The loss of life is appalling. The Government is continuing to monitor the situation closely, along with our partners.
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is expecting to receive over 260,000 visitor visa applications over the summer peak processing period. We encourage prospective travellers to submit their applications as soon as possible.
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Visitor Visa
Visa Waiver Program
Travel Without a Visa
Citizens of Canada and Bermuda
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) enables most citizens or nationals of participating countries * to travel to the United States for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa. Travelers must have a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval prior to travel and meet all requirements explained below. If you prefer to have a visa in your passport, you may still apply for a visitor (B) visa.
Visa Waiver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015
Under the Visa Waiver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015, travelers in the following categories must obtain a visa prior to traveling to the United States as they are no longer eligible to travel under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP):
- Nationals of VWP countries who have traveled to or been present in Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, or Yemen on or after March 1, 2011 (with limited exceptions for travel for diplomatic or military purposes in the service of a VWP country).
- Nationals of VWP countries who have traveled to or been present in Cuba on or after January 12, 2021 (with limited exceptions for travel for diplomatic or military purposes in the service of a VWP country).
- Nationals of VWP countries who are also nationals of Cuba, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Iran, Iraq, Sudan, or Syria.
Requirements for Using the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)
You must meet all the following requirements to travel to the United States on the VWP:
Travel Purpose Must be Permitted on a Visitor (B) Visa
The following are examples of activities permitted while in the United States on the VWP. In addition, transiting through the United States to other countries is generally permitted for VWP travelers.
- consult with business associates
- attend a scientific, educational, professional, or business convention or conference
- attend short-term training (you may not be paid by any source in the United States with the exception of expenses incidental to your stay)
- negotiate a contract
Learn more about Business Travel to the United States (PDF - 362 KB).
- vacation (holiday)
- visit with friends or relatives
- medical treatment
- participation in social events hosted by fraternal, social, or service organizations
- participation by amateurs in musical, sports, or similar events or contests, if not being paid for participating
- enrollment in a short recreational course of study, not for credit toward a degree (for example, a two-day cooking class while on vacation)
Learn more about Visitor Visas - Business and Pleasure (PDF - 510 KB).
Travel Purposes Not Permitted on Visa Waiver Program – Examples:
- study, for credit
- work as foreign press, radio, film, journalists, or other information media
- permanent residence in the United States
Must Be a Citizen or National of a VWP Designated Country *
You must be a citizen or national of the following countries * to be eligible to travel to the United States under the VWP.
- Czech Republic
- Liechtenstein
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- South Korea
- Switzerland
- United Kingdom**
**To be eligible to travel under the VWP, British citizens must have the unrestricted right of permanent abode in England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands, and the Isle of Man.
Each Traveler Must Have a Valid ESTA
In order to travel without a visa on the VWP, you must have valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval prior to boarding a U.S. bound air or sea carrier. ESTA is a web-based system operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to determine eligibility to travel to the United States for tourism or business under the VWP. Visit the ESTA webpage on the CBP website for more information.
Updating Your ESTA
In most cases, your ESTA will be valid for two years. You also must obtain a new ESTA if you: (1) receive a new passport, including an emergency or temporary passport; (2) change your name; (3) change your gender; (4) change your country of citizenship; or (5) need to change your responses to any of the “yes” or “no” questions on the ESTA application.
These individuals can apply for visas using regular appointment processes at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Consular sections overseas may be able to expedite your interview date if there is an urgent, unforseen situation such as a funeral, medical emergency, or school start date. For more information, please visit the website of the Embassy or Consulate Visa Section where you will interview.
If an individual who is exempt from the Act because of his or her diplomatic or military presence in one of the seven countries is denied ESTA, he or she may go to the CBP website , or contact the CBP information Center . The traveler may also apply for a nonimmigrant visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection strongly recommends that any traveler to the United States check his or her ESTA status prior to making any travel reservations or travelling to the United States. More information is available on the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) website .
Have the Correct Type of Passport
You must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after your planned departure from the United States (unless exempted by country-specific agreements ). For families, each member of your family, including infants and children, must have a passport.
![Sample Passport Image Sample Passport Image](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/tourism-visit/visa-waiver-program/_jcr_content/tsg-rwd-content-page-parsysxxx/image_1156360838.img.jpg/1595427538711.jpg)
In addition, you must have an e-passport to use the VWP. An e-passport is an enhanced secure passport with an embedded electronic chip. The chip can be scanned to match the identity of the traveler to the passport. E-Passports must be in compliance with standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). You can readily identify an e-passport, by a symbol on the cover. See the example below. More information about e-passports is available on the DHS website .
![Passport with e-symbol Passport with e-symbol](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/tourism-visit/visa-waiver-program/_jcr_content/tsg-rwd-content-page-parsysxxx/image_1877633132.img.jpg/1595427539812.jpg)
Emergency and Temporary Passports
If you use an emergency or temporary passport to enter the United States on the VWP, the passport must be an e-passport. This includes VWP travelers who are transiting the United States.
More information on frequently asked questions about VWP can be found at the following websites:
- DHS Visa Waiver Program Requirements
- CBP Visa Waiver Program
May I apply for a visa instead of using the VWP?
Yes, you may apply for a visitor (B) visa if you prefer to do so or if you are not eligible for VWP travel. Additionally, you need to apply for a visa if you will be traveling on a private aircraft or other non-VWP approved air or sea carrier. Review the approved carriers list . Also, if you intend to stay longer than 90 days, then you need to apply for a visa.
I was denied a visa under section 214(b). May I use the VWP?
A recent visa refusal for any reason could result in denial of ESTA authorization, additional review at the port of entry, or denial of admission to the United States. If you are uncertain if you qualify for VWP travel, you may apply for a visa.
Trips to Canada, Mexico, or nearby islands
If you are admitted to the United States under the VWP, you may take a short trip to Canada, Mexico, or a nearby island and generally be readmitted to the United States under the VWP for the remainder of the original 90 days granted upon your initial arrival in the United States. Therefore, the length of time of your total stay, including the short trip, must be 90 days or less. See the CBP website . Citizens of VWP countries * who reside in Mexico, Canada, or a nearby island are generally exempted from the requirement to show onward travel to another country * when entering the United States. Learn more on the CBP website .
How can a country* join the VWP?
A country * must meet various requirements to be considered for designation in the Visa Waiver Program. Requirements include, but are not limited to:
- enhanced law enforcement and security-related data sharing with the United States;
- issuing e-passports;
- having a visitor (B) visa refusal rate of less than three percent (for initial designation);
- timely reporting of both blank and issued lost and stolen passports; and
- maintenance of high counterterrorism, law enforcement, border control, and document security standards.
Designation as a VWP country * is at the discretion of the U.S. government. Meeting the objective requirements of the VWP does not guarantee a country * will receive VWP designation.
Entering the United States
An approved ESTA allows you to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (generally an airport) and request permission to enter the United States, but an approved ESTA does not guarantee entry into the United States. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port-of-entry have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States. Learn more on the CBP website .
Extending your stay
If you enter the United States under the Visa Waiver Program, you are not permitted to extend your stay in the United States beyond the initial admission period. You must depart the United States on or before the date on your admission stamp when you entered the United States. See Extend Your Stay on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website .
Change of status
If you enter the United States under the Visa Waiver Program, you are not permitted to change status in the United States. See Change My Nonimmigrant Status on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.
What if I am traveling to Guam or the Northern Mariana Islands?
Citizens of Australia, Brunei, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Nauru, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan and the United Kingdom do not need a visa or ESTA to visit both Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands because of the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program, though they must complete Form I-736 prior to travel. People's Republic of China Passport holders also do not need a visa if they complete Form I-736 for temporary admission into the Northern Mariana Islands. For more information on the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program, click here
* With respect to all references to “country” or “countries” on this page, it should be noted that the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979, Pub. L. No. 96-8, Section 4(b)(1), provides that “[w]henever the laws of the United States refer or relate to foreign countries, nations, states, governments, or similar entities, such terms shall include and such laws shall apply with respect to Taiwan.” 22 U.S.C. § 3303(b)(1). Accordingly, all references to “country” or “countries” in the Visa Waiver Program authorizing legislation, Section 217 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, 8 U.S.C. 1187, are read to include Taiwan. This is consistent with the United States’ one-China policy, under which the United States has maintained unofficial relations with Taiwan since 1979.
More Information
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*New Zealand passport holders whose purpose of travel is tourism are able to spend up to six months visa-free in the United Kingdom. ... Every year tens of thousands of New Zealanders travel to Europe and while most will encounter few if any problems, some will become the victim of a crime. Most of these crimes involve theft of funds, passports ...
The New Zealand passport is a symbol of global mobility and freedom, offering its holders the opportunity to travel to various parts of the world with ease. ... We have listed all the countries where New Zealand citizens can travel visa-free, eliminating the hassle of visa paperwork. Europe. 🇦🇱 Albania (90 days) 🇦🇩 Andorra (N/A ...
Requirements to apply for Europe's travel authorisation from New Zealand. The ETIAS visa waiver for New Zealanders will be available through an easy-to-use online application system. The requirements for an ETIAS visa-waiver application are simple and straightforward: A New Zealand passport that is machine-readable and valid for at least 3 ...
To meet the ETIAS Italy requirements for New Zealanders, travellers will need to provide the following: A valid New Zealand passport. An active debit or credit card. A valid email address. Once these requirements have been met, the application form for ETIAS Italy for New Zealanders may be completed online from any internet-connected device.
France entry requirements for New Zealand citizens. These are the documents New Zealanders need to travel to France: New Zealand passport with over 3 months of validity remaining from the intended date of departure from France. ETIAS (from 2025) New Zealanders need a visa for France if they do not meet the requirements for visa-free entry.
New Zealand citizens travelling on New Zealand passports are exempt from the visa requirement for entering Norway. They can stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days during a period of 180 days. Their stay can be for 90 consecutive days, or divided into several stays. The six-month period starts on the day of first entry into the Schengen area.
New Zealander citizens can apply for ETIAS online. ETIAS is valid for arrival to Europe by air, sea or overland. Travellers must have an e-passport that is machine readable. ETIAS is for short tourist, business, transit and medical visits. Applicants under the age of 18 or over the age of 70 will receive their ETIAS free of charge.
New Zealand citizens benefit from this short-stay visa waiver, as long as they (a) do not intend to work; (b) hold a passport valid for at least 3 months after date of return; and (c) have a return ticket. New Zealand nationals are advised to ensure that their passport is stamped on entry and exit at the external borders of the Schengen Area.
New Zealand citizens benefit from this short-stay visa waiver, as long as they: (a) do not intend to work; (b) hold a passport valid for at least 3 months after date of departure; (c) have a return ticket. Border officials in EU countries may ask for other supporting documents such as for example an invitation letter, proof of lodging, return ...
Some countries require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months after you intend to depart from that country. For more information, contact the embassy of the country you are travelling to. Find a New Zealand embassy or foreign representative in New Zealand. All adults, and children aged 10 and over, must sign their passport unless they ...
A passport is required for travel to all countries, including Australia. If you are planning to travel and your passport is due to expire in less than a year, you may need to renew your passport. Some countries require that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended departure from the country you are visiting.
Whether you need to obtain a visa for your travels to Europe largely depends on which country your passport is from and which European country you're travelling to with a Schengen Agreement in place for 26 countries including Italy, France, Germany, and Spain that allows visa-free travel between them.. Passport holders from over 150 countries will need to obtain a Schengen Visa before arriving ...
New Zealand Citizens must apply for the Schengen visa if traveling for long-term purposes. The visa requirements do not apply for citizens who travel to Europe from New Zealand for less than 90 days. For entry to the European Union as a tourist or leisure visitor, travelers must simply present the NZ passport at the Schengen Member State border.
Visa requirements for New Zealand citizens are administrative entry restrictions by the authorities of other states placed on citizens of New Zealand.. As of 23 July 2024, New Zealand citizens had visa-free or visa on arrival access to 190 countries and territories, ranking the New Zealand passport 4th in the world according to the Henley Passport Index.
The type of visa you need will depend on: the country you're travelling to. the passport you hold. the purpose of your trip. the length of your stay. You can find out about the visa you'll need from: the foreign representative to NZ of the country you want to visit (for example, embassies, high commissions or consulates) your travel agent.
Destinations in Europe where we advise against tourist and other non-essential travel. Kosovo. Avoid non-essential travel to North Mitrovica and the northern municipalities of Leposavić, Zubin Potok and Zvečan due to ethnic tensions, politically-motivated violence and civil unrest (level 3 of 4). Türkiye.
Some countries require proof of a negative test result before departure from New Zealand. This could be either a RAT or a PCR test, depending on your destination requirements. To travel to Australia, for example, your pre-departure negative RAT must be done no more than 24 hours before your scheduled flight.
Saint Helena. Tanzania. Timor-Leste. Tonga. Trinidad and Tobago. Tuvalu. Zimbabwe. You receive a visa on arrival (VOA) after entering the country that issues such a visa. Usually, there is a separate section at the airport where you can submit your application for your visa on arrival.
In summary: Yes. Europe passport requirements state that a valid U.S. passport is necessary to enter any of its 50 countries. Once you arrive in Europe, you can travel between certain countries ...
The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is expected to become obligatory for eligible travelers in 2025. The ETIAS system was first proposed by the European Commission in April 2016 and approved in November of that year.. Eu-LISA, the European Union Agency which manages the operations of its large-scale information systems, is responsible for developing the new visa ...
International travel requirements. If you are not a New Zealand or Australian citizen, you may need to apply for a visa or an Electronic Travel Authority at least 72 hours before travelling to New Zealand or Australia. Tick all the boxes before you fly by checking visa requirements, passport details, insurance matters and other important travel ...
The transfer of visas and permits into a new New Zealand passport can only be undertaken by the appropriate local authority. General information on permits to stay (permesso di soggiorno) can be found on the Italian State Police website. When you arrive in Italy, you should apply for a permit within 8 working days at your nearest questura.
It's called the NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) and travellers need to request theirs via the official mobile app or website. Approval can take up to 72 hours, so get yours before you go. The NZeTA is required for travel from 1 October 2019. Visit Immigration.govt.nz/nzeta to find out if you need one.
Europe plans to introduce a new biometric passport system in November 2024, followed six months later by a new travel authorization for many of its visitors—here's what travelers need to know.
In Europe's Schengen area, your passport must be valid for at least six months at the time of your entry. At present, the Schengen area includes most European Union (EU) countries, except for Cyprus and Ireland. If you are transiting through Canada or the United Kingdom (UK) enroute to the Schengen area: your passport must be valid for at least six months, even though Canada and the UK do not ...
The European Union will phase out physical passport stamps for most tourists on Nov. 10 when it launches the new Entry/Exit System, which will use a high-tech scanning process to digitally register non-EU visitors instead of physical stamps. "At every single airport, every single harbor, every single road into Europe, we will have digital border […]
The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is the new travel authorization that Americans must pay for in 2025. While a US passport was enough to travel to 30 countries in the Schengen Zone in the past without a visa, visa-exempt travelers who plan on spending up to 90 days in these countries must now take an extra step to travel to Europe.
In travel news this week: an accidental megadeal on first-class tickets, the world's best-connected airport and why now is a good time to plan a trip to Europe. Plus a bit of relief for those of ...
Passport holders of some countries and territories do not have to apply for a visa before they travel to New Zealand but must hold an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority). Visa waiver countries and territories. In the 2023 calendar year: more than one million visas were decided.
An e-passport is an enhanced secure passport with an embedded electronic chip. The chip can be scanned to match the identity of the traveler to the passport. E-Passports must be in compliance with standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). You can readily identify an e-passport, by a symbol on the cover.