NZ to Trial Visa-Free Entry for Chinese Tourists with Aussie Visas from November
The Kiwi Experience: Visa-Free Travel for Chinese Tourists from Aussie Shores
Have you ever dreamt of hopping across the Tasman Sea? Well, New Zealand has just made it a tad easier for our friends from China! From November 2025, Chinese tourists travelling from Australia with a valid visa—be it for work, study, or just family visits—will be able to saunter into New Zealand without the fuss of a typical visa.
Just think, three months of breathtaking landscapes and sheep aplenty, free of bureaucratic headaches!
But wait, there’s a small catch. You’ll still need to apply for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA). Fear not, though; it’s a straightforward process.
Key Details for Travelling:
- Eligibility: Valid Australian visitor, work, student, or family visa
- Duration: Stay for up to three months
- Requirements: Secure your NZeTA before you jet off
New Zealand is keen to roll out this trial for 12 months, diligently watching how it unfolds. They’ve got their eyes set on making this a permanent fixture if all goes swimmingly. The intention? To attract more Chinese tourists, which in turn fuels both tourism and trade, all while strengthening familial ties—because, let’s face it, who doesn’t want a little family reunion?
Making It Easier for Chinese Tourists
The New Zealand government isn’t just stopping at relaxed visa rules. Oh no! They’re also beefing up support for Chinese travellers.
With dedicated contact points back in China, it’s easier than ever to get that travel advice you need. Plus, there’s a handy phone line that you can call during business hours—making New Zealand’s warm hospitality just a dial away.
Did You Know? Visitor Visa applications for Chinese nationals are now getting processed in an average of just five days!
More Visitors, More Fun
As we inch closer to this trial, Immigration Minister Erica Stanford is beaming about how this will make New Zealand even more enticing for Chinese tourists.
With over 240,000 visitor visas granted to Chinese nationals in 2024, they’re expecting those numbers to keep climbing. This is not just about sight-seeing; those visitors brought in a whopping $1.24 billion to New Zealand’s economy last year.
“If you thought crossing the Tasman was already fantastic, just wait! This trial helps us boost our appeal and bring a range of wonderful experiences to life for visitors,” Stanford noted, all while encouraging more improvements to the immigration process for a seamless experience.
So, if you’re pondering a move to Australia or planning a little jaunt to New Zealand, this news is something to get excited about! Just imagine the stories you could collect and share over a coffee at home.
What’s the first thing you’d do once you land in New Zealand? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Thinking about moving to Australia? Have questions or need help?
Join our free and supportive community here at Oz Visa Forum.
Post in our forums to get advice and support from people who’ve already made the move Down Under.
Not sure where to start? Click here to get started
Responses