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Visa Requirements for USA, Europe, Japan & More

Visa Requirements for USA, Europe, Japan & More

Visa Requirements for Popular Destinations: A Complete Guide for Kiwi Travelers

Planning your next adventure? One of the first things you’ll want to figure out is whether you need a visa to enter your dream destination. The visa process can vary depending on where you're going, and let's face it, nobody wants to be caught off guard at the airport. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the visa requirements for some of the most popular travel destinations, so you can book that flight with peace of mind. Let’s dive in!

1. Australia: Easy Peasy for Kiwis

Australia is just a hop, skip, and jump away, and many Kiwis travel there all the time. Good news – getting there is super simple.

Visa Requirement: If you’re a New Zealand passport holder, you don’t need a visa for short visits (up to 3 months). When you arrive, you’ll automatically get a Special Category Visa (SCV). Easy, right?

For Non-New Zealand Citizens: If you're not from New Zealand, you’ll need to apply for a visitor visa or an ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) before your trip.

kangaroo jumping across road

2. United States: Say Hello to the ESTA

The U.S. is high on many people’s bucket lists – from NYC’s skyscrapers to the Grand Canyon, there’s so much to see. But first, let's talk about the visa process.

Visa Requirement: If you’re from New Zealand and travelling for tourism or business for less than 90 days, you can enter through the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Just apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) online – it’s quick and easy.

For Longer Stays: Want to stay longer or visit for something other than tourism? You'll need to apply for a visa at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

plane looking out over new york city

3. Europe (Schengen Area): Freedom to Roam

Europe is full of history, stunning views, and mouth-watering food. You’ll be hopping between countries in no time!

Visa Requirement: If you’re from New Zealand, you don’t need a visa for stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen Area (think France, Italy, Spain, etc.). Just travel around freely for three months.

For Longer Stays: If you want to stay for longer than 90 days, you’ll need a visa for the country you plan to stay in the longest.

two friends walking in front of eiffel tower

4. Japan: An Easy Getaway

Japan offers a perfect mix of old and new, from ancient temples to neon-lit streets. The visa process is straightforward for short visits.

Visa Requirement: New Zealand passport holders don’t need a visa for stays up to 90 days for tourism.

For Extended Stays: If you want to work or study, you’ll need to apply for the appropriate visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate.

Mount Fuji and Cherry Blossoms

5. Thailand: Visa on Arrival for a Quick Visit

Thailand is famous for its beaches, vibrant nightlife, and delicious food. Here’s what you need to know about entering the Land of Smiles.

Visa Requirement: If you're from New Zealand, you can stay in Thailand for up to 30 days without a visa (if you arrive by air), or 15 days if you come by land.

Visa on Arrival: You can also apply for a visa on arrival for stays of up to 15 days.

beach in Thailand

6. United Kingdom: Tea, Scones, and No Visa (for Short Stays)

The UK is a great spot for sightseeing, checking out history, or hanging out with family. Here's the visa lowdown.

Visa Requirement: Kiwis don’t need a visa for short stays (up to 6 months) for tourism, business, or family visits. From 8 January 2025, it will be mandatory for New Zealand passport holders to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling to the UK. Applications are open now (from 27 November 2024). It costs GBP 10 (around $22) and may take up to three working days to process.

For Longer Stays: If you plan to work, study, or stay for more than 6 months, you'll need to apply for a visa.

Big Ben London

7. Canada: Easy ETA for a Canadian Adventure

Canada is known for its mountains, hockey, and maple syrup. Here’s the visa info you’ll need to know.

Visa Requirement: No visa required for up to 6 months for tourism or business. You’ll just need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to board your flight.

For Longer Stays: If you’re planning to stay longer or study/work, you’ll need to apply for a different visa.

snowy mountains in Canada

8. Bali, Indonesia: Visa on Arrival (It’s That Simple!)

Bali is a favourite getaway for many, with its stunning beaches and rich culture. Here's the scoop on visas.

Visa Requirement: Kiwis must have a visa to enter Bali, but don’t worry – you can get a Visa on Arrival (VOA) when you land. It’s good for up to 30 days for tourism.

Extension of Stay: You can extend your VOA for an additional 30 days, but if you want to stay longer than 60 days, you’ll need to apply for a tourist visa before you travel.

nusa penida island bali

9. Fiji: No Visa, No Worries

Fiji is one of the most popular spots for Kiwis to escape for a tropical getaway. Best of all, the visa process is super simple.

Visa Requirement: New Zealand citizens don’t need a visa for stays up to 4 months for tourism.

For Longer Stays: If you plan to stay longer or work, you’ll need to apply for a visa.

beach in Fiji

10. Vietnam: Visa on Arrival or E-Visa Options

Vietnam is full of history, culture, and beautiful landscapes. Here’s what you need to know about getting in.

Visa Requirement: You’ll need a visa to visit Vietnam. You can get a Visa on Arrival (with a pre-approval letter) or apply for an E-Visa online.

For Longer Stays: If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you can apply for an extension or a longer-term visa.

golden bridge Vietnam

Conclusion: Know Before You Go

Knowing the visa rules before you travel will save you from any surprises at the airport and make the whole journey smoother. Whether you're heading to sunny Bali or exploring the streets of New York, just make sure you’ve got the right visa in place.

Visa requirements can change frequently, so it's always a good idea to double-check the latest info with the official government website or embassy before you travel. This guide is intended to provide general information and may not reflect the most current rules.

At Mix & Match, we’re all about helping you get to your dream destination. Book your next trip with us and let’s get that adventure started!

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