Travelling or returning to New Zealand

Passports and visas for entry into new zealand.

  • You will need a valid passport .
  • 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) for traveling to or transiting New Zealand.
  • Don't forget to check travel requirements for any  countries/regions  you will pass through in transit and on your return journey.
  • All passengers entering New Zealand have the option to complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration instead of a paper Passenger Arrival Card. Passengers transiting internationally do not need to complete a declaration.

Transit in 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) for transiting through New Zealand
  • Remember to check your final destination's entry requirements .
  • Travellers do not require proof of vaccination or a pre-departure test to enter New Zealand.
  • 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. 

Helpful tips

Here's a few useful links to help with planning your trip to Aotearoa New Zealand.

  • Best things to do in the North Island
  • Best things to do in the South Island
  • Other Islands
  • Best ways to travel around
  • Calculate travel times and distances

Travel Alerts

Air New Zealand Plane

Air New Zealand Plane, New Zealand

By Air New Zealand

Important Travel Alerts for Aotearoa New Zealand

Information for domestic and international visitors.

Some parts of New Zealand’s North Island are experiencing changes to road and traffic conditions.

If you are travelling please check with your travel provider, travel agent and travel insurer directly about any disruptions that may impact you.

  • If you are already in New Zealand and travelling in throughout the North Island, please stay safe by checking with  Waka Kōtahi Transport Agency (opens in new window)  about any impacts to roads
  • If you have a rental car or a rental campervan, please connect directly to the company if you are having trouble returning your vehicle as planned
  • Please also check the  Department of Conservation’s alert page (opens in new window)  for information about any affected walking trails, beaches, parks and recreation areas
  • Some Auckland regional parks are temporarily closed for safety reasons. Find out more here (opens in new window)
  • Visitors are asked to stay away from Auckland’s west coast beaches including Muriwai, Piha, Te Henga (Bethells Beach) and Karekare. Learn more here (opens in new window) .

We encourage you to check specific businesses or tourism operators may be operating as normal. Search our site for contact details of  tours (opens in new window) ,  accommodation (opens in new window) and  transport (opens in new window) providers.

New Zealand’s isite visitor information network (opens in new window) is also available to talk to you about travel options. 

New Zealand's border update

All fully vaccinated  United States  passport holders can enter New Zealand and do not need to self-isolate or go to quarantine from 11:59pm 1 May 2022.

Helpful links

  • Eligibility, testing and vaccination requirements to travel into New Zealand (opens in new window)
  • Learn more about New Zealand's 5-step plan to re-open borders (opens in new window)

New Zealand borders will open earlier for working holiday visa holders, approved skilled workers, temporary work and student visa holders. Find out more (opens in new window)

You may also be interested in

Kepler Track

COVID-19 travel safety and information long-arrow-right

If you’re thinking about visiting New Zealand, passport and visa organisation is key.

Visas & Immigration long-arrow-right

Air New Zealand is New Zealand's national air carrier

Flights To New Zealand long-arrow-right

Prototype block on this page

Pages: Travel Alert page

Description: Fixes display issue of bullet points on mobile

Only CMS Authors can see this message

New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade: Manatū Aorere.

  • Media and resources

Language English

On this page

Travel advisory for the United States of America

Safet travel matters

x.

SafeTravel is the official source of travel advice for New Zealanders, with advisories for specific destinations. Checking SafeTravel helps you avoid travel blackspots.

On SafeTravel you can also register your details and travel plans. If a crisis occurs overseas, MFAT will contact New Zealanders who have enrolled to check on their safety and well-being.

We also recommend you take out travel insurance. If you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

While you are overseas, make sure you respect cultural norms and obey local laws.

SafeTravel (external link)   is the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade website designed for New Zealanders who are travelling or living overseas. You will find:

  • traveller’s checklist (external link) to help you plan your journey
  • news features (external link)
  • travel advisories (external link) for specific destinations, with up-to-date information on security risks
  • registration facility (external link) where you can log your travel plans in case you need to be contacted in an emergency
  • when things go wrong (external link) - information that may assist you.

US national threat level

For information on the national threat level in the USA, please refer to the Department of Homeland (external link) website.

United States of America: Changes to entry requirements

An Executive Order (external link) on 27 January 2017 has temporarily suspended entry into the United States of foreign nationals from seven countries: Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Iran, Somalia, Libya, and Yemen.

The United States Embassy in New Zealand has confirmed that the Executive Order suspending the entry into the United States for foreign nationals does not restrict the travel of New Zealand dual nationals, so long as they travel on their New Zealand passport and possess a valid United States visa.

We encourage all New Zealanders who require advice on entry into the United States to contact the United States Embassy or Consulate in New Zealand (external link) . The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade is unable to advise on the entry requirements of other countries.

United States (external link)

  • Share on Facebook
  • Share on Twitter
  • Share on LinkedIn

We use cookies and other tracking technologies to improve your browsing experience on our website, to analyze our website traffic, and to understand where our visitors are coming from. You can find out more information on our Privacy Page .

United States upgrades advice for travel to New Zealand to 'reconsider travel'

Related video: New Zealand has banned flights from India temporarily - the first time the Government's stopped Kiwis from coming home. Credits: Video - Newshub; Image - Getty.

The United States has upgraded its advice for travel to New Zealand and is now telling citizens to "reconsider travel" here.

The US State Department uses a four-tiered travel system to provide country-specific advice to citizens planning travel.

More from Newshub

New Zealand was previously at level 1, meaning "exercise normal precautions''. However, as of Thursday, that has been upgraded to level 3 - "reconsider travel".

The specific advisory on the US State Department website says: "Reconsider travel to New Zealand without prior authorisation from the New Zealand government. Entry restrictions are in place to prevent the introduction and spread of COVID-19 in New Zealand".

The US Embassy in New Zealand said the reclassification "is in no way a reflection on New Zealand’s COVID-19 response".

Other than a handful of individuals linked to the border, Aotearoa has not recently recorded any community cases of COVID-19 and has no restrictions or lockdowns in place as many other countries do. Our response to the pandemic has been acclaimed globally, with just 2243 cases of the virus confirmed here.

"The US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention recognises there is a low level of COVID-19 in the country," the embassy says.

"Changing New Zealand’s Travel Advisory level does not indicate that the US Government assesses the level of COVID-19 risk has gone up in New Zealand. The US CDC’s assessment of the COVID risk in New Zealand remains the same."

It explains that the State Department is telling citizens to "reconsider travel" as New Zealand's borders are closed to almost anyone who isn't a Kiwi resident, citizen or close family member.

The change in advisory isn't unique to New Zealand. As a result of updating its travel advisory rubric, the US State Department says about 80 percent of nations will now have a level 4 "do not travel" advisory.

"A Level 3 Travel Advisory is not unique to New Zealand," the embassy says.

Other countries under a "reconsider travel" advisory include Australia, Japan, China and New Caledonia.

"The COVID-19 pandemic poses a dynamic threat, and therefore our advice to US citizen travelers requires frequent updates to ensure we are providing the most timely and accurate information," the embassy says.

"To this end, the Department of State reviews CDC data, travel restrictions and other factors on a weekly basis to evaluate the appropriate Travel Advisory levels worldwide."

The US Chargé d'Affaires Kevin Covert said the US wants to be consistent with New Zealand messaging.

us state department travel to new zealand

New Zealand moves up reopening for vaccinated US tourists to May as COVID cases surge

us state department travel to new zealand

New Zealand is set to reopen to vaccinated U.S. travelers earlier than expected.

Fully vaccinated U.S. travelers will be able to visit as soon as May, officials said Tuesday.

New Zealand originally said it would reopen  to U.S. tourists in July. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said moving up the reopening date is meant to help accelerate the country's economic recovery. 

“Closing our border was one of the first actions we took to stop COVID-19 two years ago. It did the job we needed. But now that we’re highly vaccinated and predicted to be off our Omicron peak, it’s now safe to open up,” Ardern said in a statement.   

Starting May 1 at 11:59 p.m., fully vaccinated travelers from the U.S. and other non-visa countries can enter New Zealand without a quarantine period .

According to the New Zealand Government's website, travelers need " a full COVID-19 vaccine course ," such as one dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine or two doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, to be considered fully vaccinated. A full list of the approved vaccinations can be found online .   

Visitors will need to show proof of a negative pre-departure coronavirus test to enter and will be provided two free at-home rapid antigen tests upon arrival. The first test should be taken on the day of arrival and the second should be taken on day five or six.

SOUTH KOREA TO EASE TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS: South Korea to allow fully vaccinated travelers to visit without a quarantine period

HAVEN'T BOOKED AIRLINE TICKETS YET?: Don't dawdle. Bookings are bonkers, pushing prices up

If a tourist tests positive and confirms the results with a PCR test, they must self-isolate.  

The change was announced as the country faces  a surge of COVID-19  cases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says New Zealand has “very high” COVID-19 levels and warns U.S. travelers to avoid the country . 

“If you must travel to New Zealand, make sure you are vaccinated and up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines before travel,"  the agency says on its website.

Follow USA TODAY reporter Bailey Schulz on Twitter: @bailey_schulz . 

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

  • Travel Advisories |
  • Contact Us |
  • MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

Japan Travel Advisory

Travel advisory january 8, 2024, japan - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Japan – Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Reissued after periodic review without changes.

Exercise normal precautions in Japan.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Japan.

If you decide to travel to Japan: 

  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
  • Follow Embassy Tokyo’s American Citizen Services section on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
  • Review the  Country Security Report  for Japan.
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, search for travel advisories, external link.

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

Official Website of the International Trade Administration

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure Website

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

  • Search ITA Search

 alt=

  • Market Overview
  • Market Challenges
  • Market Opportunities
  • Market Entry Strategy
  • Agriculture Equipment
  • Environmental Technologies
  • Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
  • Travel & Tourism
  • Agricultural Sector - Food and Beverages
  • Trade Barriers
  • Import Tariffs
  • Import Requirements and Documentation
  • Labeling/Marking Requirements
  • U.S. Export Controls
  • Temporary Entry
  • Prohibited and Restricted Imports
  • Customs Regulations
  • Standards for Trade
  • Trade Agreements
  • Licensing Requirements for Professional Services
  • Distribution & Sales Channels
  • Selling Factors & Techniques
  • Trade Financing
  • Protecting Intellectual Property
  • Selling to the Public Sector
  • Business Travel
  • Investment Climate Statement

Business Customs

New Zealand business customs are similar to the United States – although business attire is less formal.  Punctuality is important for business appointments.  Senior level officials are as accessible for relevant business consultations as their peers are in the United States.  Gifts are not standard practice.  Business cards are commonly shared; however, digital business cards are gaining popularity. 

Travel Advisory

The State Department consular information sheet for New Zealand provides U.S. travelers safety and security information to help assess any risks of travel to this destination. 

Visa requirements

Under the Visa Waiver Program, U.S. passport holders can visit New Zealand for 90 days or less without a visa.  U.S. citizens with Global Entry membership traveling to New Zealand may use a dedicated lane arriving at Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch International Airports.  The lanes will streamline border processing for U.S. Global entry members.  To be eligible to use the lanes, U.S. Global Entry members simply present their Global Entry card, their U.S. passport and arrival documentation.  This initiative is the result of an agreement between New Zealand and the United States to improve the border experience for travelers flying between the two countries.  U.S. Global Entry members will still be subject to standard customs, immigration, and biosecurity processes on arrival in New Zealand.

In New Zealand, consular activities are undertaken at the American Consulate General, Auckland.

U.S. Companies that require travel of foreign businesspersons to the United States are advised that security evaluations are handled via an interagency process. Visa applicants should go to the following link(s):  State Department Visa Website ”

New Zealand’s unit of currency is the dollar (NZ$).   All major credit cards can be used in New Zealand.   Visa and MasterCard ae accepted nationwide.  ATMs are widely available in New Zealand’s urban centers.  Electronic transactions dominate over cash.  Travelers checks are no longer accepted. 

There is no restriction on the amount of foreign currency that can be brought in or taken out of New Zealand. However, every person who carries more than NZ$10,000 in cash in or out of New Zealand is required to complete a Border Cash Report.  Foreign currency can easily be exchanged at banks, some hotels, and Bureau de Change kiosks, which are found at international airports and most city centers.

Telecommunications/Electronics

New Zealand has a modern telecommunications infrastructure.  Internet coverage is nationwide and integral to everyday life.  Free internet access is available in most hotels and through wireless hotspots and Internet cafes.  More cellular phones are linked to the main providers than landline.  (Residential landline services are declining.)  2Degrees, One and Spark are the three cellular networks.  International roaming services are available.

Electricity is supplied throughout New Zealand at 230/240 volts (50 hertz), although most hotels and motels provide 110-volt AC sockets (rated at 20 watts) for electric razors only. For all other equipment, an adapter/converter is necessary, unless the item has a multi-voltage option.

Transportation

Most travelers to New Zealand arrive by air.  Airline services/routes were severely disrupted by the pandemic.  Air travel is now almost at pre-COVID levels and as new routes between the United States and New Zealand become available, flight connectivity has never been as good.  Air New Zealand, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, Qantas and United Airlines provide (or are due to add by the end of 2023) regular flights between New Zealand and United States.  Most flights depart from Auckland.  Towards the end of 2023, American Airlines and United Airlines are scheduled to introduce direct flights to the United States departing from Christchurch, New Zealand.

Air New Zealand has begun to weigh volunteer passengers for international flights.  The data is used to calculate the weight and balance of the aircraft.

New Zealand is well equipped with both public and private transportation options that can be booked through the Internet or travel agents. Automobiles are right hand drive and traffic travels on the left side of the road.

New Zealand is an English-speaking country.  Te Reo Maori is the language of the indigenous people of New Zealand and legally is an official language. New Zealand sign language is the third official language.

The New Zealand health system consists of public, private, and voluntary sectors that interact to provide and fund health care.  New Zealand’s public health system provides approximately 80% of healthcare requirements.  The public sector provides free and good quality treatment at hospitals for emergency and major medical problems, including maternity and geriatric care and free dental treatment for those less than 18 years of age.  U.S. travelers to New Zealand are no longer required to by fully vaccinated for COVID-19.

Local time, business hours, and holidays

New Zealand business operates on a five-day (Monday through Friday) work week. Retail outlets are open until 6 p.m. with extended hours Thursday/Friday and in December.  In New Zealand’s urban centers, some supermarkets and gas stations are open 24 hours a day.

Public holidays and regional holidays in New Zealand are popular for domestic travel and can be the cause of traffic congestion in and out of Auckland and Wellington and at holiday spots.

Daylight Saving commences on the last Sunday in September, when 2:00 a.m. becomes 3:00 a.m.  It ends on the first Sunday in April, when 3:00 a.m. becomes 2:00 a.m.  New Zealand is 17 hours ahead of U.S. EST during Daylight Saving.

Ocean surrounds New Zealand, allowing for a temperate climate.  The Southern Hemisphere’s seasons are opposite the Northern Hemisphere with summer weather during the five-month November to March period.  Temperature extremes are confined to mountainous areas in the North and South Islands. 

Temporary Entry of Materials and Personal Belongings

New Zealand admits samples of negligible value duty free.  Small shipments of trade catalogs and price lists printed outside New Zealand and advertising products produced abroad are admitted duty free if they bear the name and address of the foreign manufacturer and are not designed to advertise the sale of those products by any company, firm, or individual with a business established in New Zealand.

Goods imported to New Zealand on a temporary basis may be able to be imported without paying duty, including Goods and Services Tax (GST) via a Temporary Import .

  • aid.govt.nz
  • mfat.govt.nz
  • NZ Embassies

us state department travel to new zealand

Official advice for New Zealanders living and travelling overseas

  • Before you go
  • Quick checklist and tips
  • Disability information
  • Dual Citizenship
  • Going to Australia?
  • LGBTQIA+ travellers
  • Staying healthy while travelling
  • Passports and visas
  • Solo travellers
  • Travel insurance
  • Travelling with a criminal conviction
  • Work and income benefits
  • Travel advisories
  • By destination
  • Central Asia
  • Central/South America
  • Travel tips - travel to Europe
  • Middle East
  • North America
  • Travel tips - travel to the United States
  • South East Asia
  • About our advisories
  • Travel advisory risk levels
  • News features
  • When things go wrong
  • Arrest and detention
  • Contingency planning for New Zealanders overseas
  • Financial difficulties
  • Hostage taking and kidnapping
  • Illness and injury
  • Internet dating scams
  • Internet fraud and international scams
  • Large-scale emergency
  • Lost, stolen or damaged passport
  • Missing persons
  • Nuclear incident
  • Victims of crime
  • Family issues
  • Child abductions
  • Combating sex crimes against children
  • Inter-country adoptions
  • Travelling with children
  • Our services
  • New Zealand embassy locator
  • Travel advisories /
  • By region /
  • North America /

Page updated:20/9/23 Print page

The government of the United States of America (USA) enforces a strict entry regime. New Zealanders are at risk of being denied entry upon arrival if they fail to comply with visa requirements.  Intending travellers are urged to contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of the United States of America to enquire about their own specific circumstances, well in advance of travel.

If a child (17 and under) is travelling unaccompanied, with only one parent or someone who is not a parent or legal guardian, they will be asked on arrival to provide written consent to US Customs and Border Protection from both parents, or the parent who is not accompanying the child. For further information on what is required, check the  USA Government website .

The policy of the United States of America with regard to all visa and overstaying violations is one of “zero tolerance”. Even if a visitor stays only one day beyond their visa expiry, detention may result. If arrested this could include imprisonment, deportation and prohibited entry to the USA for up to 10 years.

All visitors to the United States of America are required to provide their full address while in the United States in advance of travel. This information will be collected at check-in by the airline carrier. The address must contain the postal code.

When you receive a new passport, ensure that you have updated your passport details in your frequent flyer account and with your travel agent. Travellers have encountered secondary inspection by border officials and delays when their old passport number has been used on travel documents.

If joining a cruise ship or picking up a rental car on arrival, further information on requirements may be found on US Customs and Border Protection .

Visa Waiver Programme The Visa Waiver Programme (VWP) permits New Zealand citizens to enter the USA for business and tourism purposes for up to 90 days without a visa. Under USA legislation, travellers entering the USA under the visa waiver programme are not eligible to change their visa status. New Zealanders who do not qualify for the VWP (eg, students, journalists) will continue to need visas in order to transit or visit the USA. New Zealanders planning to use the VWP are urged to check that they meet the requirements to do so.

Travellers entering the USA under the VWP and planning to cross a border to a contiguous territory or adjacent island (eg. Canada, Mexico, Caribbean islands, etc) and return directly back to the USA should be aware that this exit time may count toward the 90 day period under which they were originally admitted into the USA under the VWP. Travellers should be aware that re-admission under the visa waiver cannot be guaranteed and decisions are at the discretion of US Immigration Officers. Visiting Cuba may impact your ability to enter the US on the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) using an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). For further information see the  US Customs and Border Protection website  , or contact the nearest US Embassy or Consulate for details.

For people planning to work while in the USA a work visa is required and you should contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of the United States of America to confirm entry requirements. If you gain employment while on a visitor visa this will breach the conditions of the visa and there is a high risk of arrest and detention.

The entry requirements have changed for certain international travellers required to make transit stops in the USA, and who do not qualify to enter the USA under the VWP. In some circumstances a transit visa may be required. Well in advance of travel, contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of the United States of America to enquire about the specific circumstances that apply.

All travellers entering the USA under the Visa waiver programme must have a machine-readable passport.

New Zealand citizens travelling to, or through, the USA who do not hold a machine-readable passport must either:

  • Obtain a machine-readable passport or,
  • Obtain a US entry visa. In this situation, keep your current non machine-readable passport and apply for a US entry visa, this may require that you attend an interview with at the US Consulate General in Auckland. Further information on how to apply for a US entry visa is provided on the US Embassy in New Zealand website .

ESTA - Electronic System for Travel Authorisation Nationals of all Visa Waiver Programme (VWP) countries require ESTA authorisation prior to travelling to the United States under VWP. Travellers from VWP counties, including New Zealand, are required to pay an operational and travel promotion fee when applying for ESTA. The total cost for a new or renewed ESTA will be US$14.

For more information and link to the ESTA application see the US Visa Information Service in New Zealand website.

Neither the New Zealand Embassy, New Zealand Consulates or the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade can assist New Zealand Citizens with visa or other US immigration problems. If you have any questions you should contact the US Consulate General in Auckland before departure.

Once in the USA, contact the US Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (BOIS) for advice on 1-800-375-5283.

Useful contacts Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services - United States . New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs - Passports .

Top of page

Other pages in this section:

Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade 195 Lambton Quay Private Bag 18 901 Wellington 5045 New Zealand

  • About this site
  • Accessibility
  • Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
  • Back to Main Menu
  • Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
  • Cruise Deals
  • Weekend Cruises
  • Last Minute Cruises
  • Family Cruises​
  • 2024-2025 Cruises
  • All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
  • Cruise Dining
  • Onboard Activities
  • Cruise Rooms
  • The Cruise Experience
  • All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
  • Cruise Ports
  • Shore Excursions
  • Perfect Day at CocoCay
  • Caribbean Cruises
  • Bahamas Cruises​
  • Alaska Cruises
  • European Cruises​
  • Mediterranean Cruises​
  • Royal Destinations
  • Cruise Planner
  • Make a Payment
  • Check-In for My Cruise
  • Beverage Packages​
  • Shore Excursions​
  • Book a Flight
  • Dining Packages​
  • Royal Gifts
  • Required Travel Documents
  • Transportation
  • Book a Hotel
  • Redeem Cruise Credit
  • All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
  • Boarding Requirements
  • Future Cruise Credit​
  • Travel Documents​
  • Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
  • Transportation​
  • Perfect Day at CocoCay​
  • Post-Cruise Inquiries
  • Royal Caribbean
  • Celebrity Cruises

classe oasis

GETTING ONBOARD

Required travel documents.

GETTING ONBOARD WITH

THE RIGHT TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

It’s your responsibility to ensure you have all the proper documentation to board the ship and enter each of the countries your cruise visits. We’ll require government-issued identification to board. And government authorities may require you to have a visa or meet other requirements.

Select your departure port below to find out exactly what you need. But be aware – government requirements may change.

Don't Get Caught Without The Right Travel Doc

Passport

Passports are Best A passport is the best ID document for travel. Make sure yours doesn't expire for 6 months after your cruise ends. Learn more

Birth certificate

Caution: Birth Certificates U.S. Citizens can cruise with a U.S. birth certificate on most sailings from the U.S. But your birth certificate needs to meet the requirements. Learn more

Names Must Match

Names Must Match If you've had a name change, and the name used across your documents does not match, you will need to take an extra step. Learn more

Children and Guardians

Cruising With Kids That Aren't Yours When a minor (age 17 and under) travels without their legal guardian, an accompanying adult must present a notarized form signed by the child's guardian. Learn more

Visa May be Required

Visas May Be Required Some countries require an entry visa or electronic visa based on your nationality. Learn more

Don't Pack your Docs

Don't Pack Your Docs Please keep all travel documents on your person at the terminal; you’ll need to present them at check-in.

Select where you're sailing from

Popular homeports:, full list of all homeports:, travel document requirements for sailings from u.s. homeports (excluding honoulu, hawaii & seward, alaska).

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from the U.S. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

USA Flag

Accepted Identification for U.S. Citizens & Permanent Residents

Note: U.S. Cruises that visit Colombia or Panama If your sailing visits Colombia or Panama, see your protocols here .

In order to sail, a guest must meet the requirements of ONE of the check boxes below.

All documents must be original – no photocopies. Your name must match across documents. What if I had a name change?

  • U.S. Passport Book OR U.S. Passport Card
  • Royal Caribbean strongly recommends that all guests travel with a valid passport. Learn why a passport is best.
  • Passports must be valid at least 6 months after your cruise ends
  • Read more about passport requirements.
  • Original U.S. Birth Certificate AND Valid Government Issued ID (State ID Card, Driver’s License OR Military ID)
  • U.S. Birth Certificates must be the original or an official document issued by the government.
  • Read more about birth certificate requirements.
  • Guests age 15 and under are NOT required to have a photo ID, just the birth certificate.
  • Permanent Resident Card (Alien Resident Card "ARC" OR Green Card) AND Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship
  • Guests must bring their physical Permanent Resident Card and it must be original – no photocopies.
  • Passports must be valid at least 6 months after your cruise ends.
  • Guests age 16 and older whose ARC has no photo must present a valid government issued photo ID
  • Barbados & Martinique require ARC guests to provide a valid passport.
  • Any additional requirements are the responsibility of the guest.
  • Original U.S. Naturalization Certificate AND Valid Government Issued ID (State ID Card, Driver’s License OR Military ID)
  • Original U.S. Naturalization Certificate.
  • Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) that is not expired
  • Enhanced Driver's Licenses are only available from the following states: Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington State.
  • An Enhanced Driver’s License is different from a REAL ID compliant id. An EDL will have a flag on the front.
  • U.S. Passport Book
  • Visa may be required based on Passport Country of Origin. Learn More

Additionally, visas or travel permits may be required to enter some countries.

  • Electronic Travel Authorization will be required based on disembarkation port.
  • Learn more about visa requirements.

Accepted Identification for Canadian Citizens

  • Canadian Passport Book – Required if traveling to the U.S. by air
  • Enhanced Driver's Licenses are only available from the following Provinces: British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec.
  • Guests age 14 and under may present a passport as noted above OR one of the documents below:
  • Original Naturalization Certificate OR Original Valid Canadian Citizenship Card OR Original Birth Certificate Issued by Canada.
  • Read more about birth certificate requirements

In order to sail, a guest must meet the requirements below.

  • Canadian Passport Book

Accepted Identification for Other Nationalities

  • Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship

Additionally, visas or travel permits may be required to enter some countries. Please check requirements for your own nationality. Common visas are noted below.

  • The United States may require a Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or Visa depending on nationality.
  • Please check requirements for your own nationality .
  • Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS) is required for Chinese Nationals.
  • Sailings with a Canadian Port of Call (ex. Alaska sailings) may require a Canadian Visitor’s Visa.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Australian homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Australia. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Australia Flag

Accepted Identification for U.S. Citizens

  • U.S. Passport Book AND Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
  • All visitors are required to get an Australian ETA to travel to Australia.
  • Read more about passport requirements

Additionally, visas or travel permits may be required to enter some countries. Please check requirements for your own nationality.

  • New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA)
  • All visitors are required to get a NZeTA to travel to New Zealand.

Accepted Identification for U.K. Citizens

  • Passport Book

Accepted Identification for Australian Citizens

  • Australian Passport Book
  • Australian Driver's License OR Government-issued, laminated photo ID
  • Cruise itinerary must call only on Australian ports of call.
  • If an itinerary leaves Australia, then guests must use a Passport.
  • Guests age 17 and under may present one of the documents below:
  • Medicare Card - Can be used as the only identification for children when all guests share the same last name.
  • Original (or Certified) Birth Certificate - If the parent's name differs from the child.

* Sailings that originate and end in ports within Australia that do not include a visit to an overseas port outside of Australia. (Note that Queensland cruises that include Willis Island are considered domestic cruises) . If an itinerary leaves Australia, then guests must use a Passport.

  • Passport Book AND Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
  • For Transpacific sailings, the United States may require a Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or Visa depending on nationality.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Canadian homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Canada. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for U.S. Citizens & Permanent Residents

  • U.S. Passport Book - If traveling to Canada by air
  • U.S. Passport Card - Can be used if traveling to Canada by ground/car or by sea
  • U.S. Birth Certificate AND Valid Government Issued ID (State ID Card, Driver’s License OR Military ID) - Can be used if traveling to Canada by ground/car or by sea
  • Original U.S. State Certified Birth Certificate or a certified copy; or an original Consular Birth Abroad Certificate from the U.S. State Department.
  • Permanent Resident Card (Alien Resident Card "ARC" OR Green Card) AND Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship - If traveling to Canada by air, ground/car or by sea
  • Passports must be valid for at least 6 months after your cruise ends.
  • Guests age 16 and older whose ARC has no photo must present a valid government issued photo ID.
  • Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) that is not expired - Can be used if traveling to Canada by ground/car or by sea

Accepted Identification for Canadian Citizens & Permanent Residents

  • Canadian Permanent Resident Card AND Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship
  • Guests age 14 and under may also present either:
  • Canada may require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or Visa depending on nationality.

Travel document requirements for sailings from European homeports (excluding Southampton, England; Haifa, Israel & Istanbul, Turkey)

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Europe. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

UK Flag

Additionally, visas or travel permits will soon be required to enter European Union countries.

  • Traveling to Europe
  • Coming Soon - All visitors will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.
  • Sailings that have a European Union Port of Call
  • For Transatlantic sailings, the United States may require a Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or Visa depending on nationality.

Accepted Identification for European Citizens

  • Guests are responsible for any requirements a country may have.
  • Royal Caribbean strongly recommends that all guests travel with a valid passport. Learn why a passport is best
  • EU Government ID
  • Cruise itinerary must call only on countries within the Schengen Region .
  • EU Government ID must be valid at least 3 months after your cruise ends.
  • A Multi-Entry Schengen Visa may be required
  • Coming Soon - European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)
  • Some nationalities will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.
  • A Schengen Visa may be required
  • European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)
  • Coming Soon - Some nationalities will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Dubai

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Dubai. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Europe Flag

  • U.K. Passport Book

Travel document requirements for sailings from Central & South American homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Central and South America. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

  • Australian citizens cruising to and from Buenos Aires, Argentina and Valparaiso, Chile require additional documentation.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Singapore

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Singapore. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Singapore Flag

  • U.S. Passport Book AND Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC)
  • All visitors are required to get an Singapore Arrival Card to travel to Singapore.

Accepted Identification for Singaporean Citizens

  • Singaporean Passport Book
  • Passport Book AND Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC)

Travel document requirements for sailings from Japanese homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Japan. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Japanese Flag

Accepted Identification for Japanese Citizens

  • Japanese Passport Book

Travel document requirements for sailings from Chinese homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from China. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

China Flag

Accepted Identification for Chinese Citizens

  • Chinese Passport Book

Travel document requirements for sailings from Istanbul, Turkey

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Istanbul, Turkey. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

  • U.S. Passport Book AND Turkish Visa
  • All visitors are required to get a Turkish Visa to travel to Turkey.
  • Passport Book AND Turkish Visa

Travel document requirements for sailings from Haifa, Israel

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Haifa, Israel. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

  • All visitors will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Seward, Alaska

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from the Seward. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

  • Canada may require a Visa depending on nationality.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Southampton, England

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Southampton. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Additionally, visas or travel permits will soon be required to enter the U.K. and European Union countries.

  • Entering the U.K.
  • Coming Soon - All visitors will soon be required to get an U.K. Travel Authorization (ETA) to travel to the U.K.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Oahu (Honolulu), Hawaii

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from the Honolulu. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

  • Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA).

EXPLORE MORE

Aerial View of South Beach, Miami, Florida

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.

IMAGES

  1. Us Travel Advisory 2024

    us state department travel to new zealand

  2. US State Department Travel Advisories by Country : MapPorn

    us state department travel to new zealand

  3. Already open to US travelers, New Zealand has more reopening plans for summer

    us state department travel to new zealand

  4. New Zealand government prepares to welcome back international visitors

    us state department travel to new zealand

  5. Remarks to the Press

    us state department travel to new zealand

  6. STUDY IN NEW ZEALAND

    us state department travel to new zealand

COMMENTS

  1. New Zealand International Travel Information

    Exercise normal precautions in New Zealand. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to New Zealand. If you decide to travel to New Zealand: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.

  2. New Zealand Travel Advisory

    Exercise normal precautions in New Zealand. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to New Zealand. If you decide to travel to New Zealand: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.

  3. Traveller Pass for Travel to New Zealand Traveller Pass for Travel to

    The State Department advises U.S. citizens overseas to exercise increased caution because of increased tensions around the world and the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations, or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests. ... Traveller Pass for Travel to New Zealand. The New Zealand Government announced that from 11:59 pm on ...

  4. Travel Advisories

    New Zealand Travel Advisory: Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions: September 8, 2023: ... Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad. ... You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

  5. New Zealand

    New Zealand Relations. New Zealand is a strong, steadfast partner and friend of the United States. The U.S. diplomatic presence in New Zealand dates back to the commissioning of the first U.S. Consul in 1838. Formal diplomatic relations were established in 1942, following the United Kingdom's recognition of New Zealand's domestic and ...

  6. Welcome to New Zealand

    Get official travel information, maps, itineraries, best time to travel & things to do to help you plan your next holiday to New Zealand.

  7. COVID-19 travel safety and information

    COVID-19 safety practices in place. With COVID-19 case numbers falling, a highly vaccinated population, and increased access to antiviral medicines to treat COVID-19, New Zealand has removed most COVID-19 restrictions. It is still recommended to practice healthy habits when travelling around New Zealand. Practice healthy habits.

  8. Travel Advisory Level Change (April 15, 2021)

    The Department of State is advising U.S. citizens to reconsider travel to New Zealand because its borders are closed to almost all travelers. The Department of State has updated its Travel Advisory rubric, and following implementation of this update, approximately 80% of countries worldwide will have a Travel Advisory Level of 4: Do Not Travel ...

  9. Requirements for Travelling or Returning to New Zealand

    Get information on entry requirements to New Zealand including pre-departure testing and travel declarations.

  10. New Zealand Travel Alerts

    Information for domestic and international visitors. Some parts of New Zealand's North Island are experiencing changes to road and traffic conditions. If you are travelling please check with your travel provider, travel agent and travel insurer directly about any disruptions that may impact you. Some Auckland regional parks are temporarily ...

  11. Travelers

    Find travel resources, tips, and alerts from the U.S. Department of State to plan your trip abroad safely and securely.

  12. U.S. Embassy & Consulate in New Zealand, Cook Islands and Niue

    The Embassy of the United States in Wellington, New Zealand along with the consulate general in Auckland provides assistance to American citizens and issues travel visas to foreign nationals who wish to visit the United States

  13. SafeTravel

    SafeTravel is the official source of travel advice for New Zealanders, with advisories for specific destinations. Checking SafeTravel helps you avoid travel blackspots. On SafeTravel you can also register your details and travel plans. If a crisis occurs overseas, MFAT will contact New Zealanders who have enrolled to check on their safety and ...

  14. US tells Americans to 'reconsider travel' to New Zealand

    The United States has updated its travel advice for New Zealand, telling Americans to "reconsider travel" here. The US State Department uses a four-tiered travel system to provide country-specific ...

  15. United States upgrades advice for travel to New Zealand to ...

    The United States has upgraded its advice for travel to New Zealand and is now telling citizens to "reconsider travel" here. The US State Department uses a four-tiered travel system to provide ...

  16. Travel advisories

    Find out more about our travel advisories. Travel advisory risk levels. Search for travel advisories by risk level. Before you go. COVID-19; Quick checklist and tips; ... Contact us. Contact us; New Zealand embassy locator; Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade 195 Lambton Quay Private Bag 18 901 Wellington 5045 New Zealand.

  17. New Zealand

    Email the Embassy of New Zealand. Telephone (202) 328-4800; Fax (202) 667-5227. ... You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State. ... If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message. You are about to visit: Cancel GO. Travel.State.Gov.

  18. Travel to New Zealand: Country to reopen to US travelers this May

    New Zealand says it will start welcoming back fully vaccinated U.S. tourists in May. Officials originally said the country would reopen in July.

  19. U.S. Relations With New Zealand

    More information about New Zealand is available on the New Zealand country page and from other Department of State publications and other sources listed at the end of this fact sheet. U.S.-NEW ZEALAND RELATIONS New Zealand is a strong, steadfast partner and friend of the United States. The U.S. diplomatic presence in New Zealand dates back to […]

  20. Japan Travel Advisory

    Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. Follow Embassy Tokyo's American Citizen Services section on Facebook and Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Japan. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel. Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.

  21. Visas

    Welcome to the U.S. Visa Information Service for New Zealand. On this website you can find information about U.S. immigrant and nonimmigrant visas and the requirements to apply for each. You can also learn how to pay the required visa application fee, and book an interview appointment at the U.S. Consulate in Auckland. Find out about Visas here.

  22. New Zealand

    Travel Advisory. The State Department consular information sheet for New Zealand provides U.S. travelers safety and security information to help assess any risks of travel to this destination. Visa requirements. Under the Visa Waiver Program, U.S. passport holders can visit New Zealand for 90 days or less without a visa.

  23. Travel tips

    Well in advance of travel, contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of the United States of America to enquire about the specific circumstances that apply. ... New Zealand Consulates or the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade can assist New Zealand Citizens with visa or other US immigration problems. ... New Zealand Department of ...

  24. Official ESTA Application Website, U.S. Customs and Border Protection

    Your travel is for 90 days or less. You plan to travel to the United States for business or pleasure. You want to apply for a new authorization for one person or a group of applications for two or more persons.

  25. Travel Documents & Requirements

    Find the correct travel documents and requirements depending on your departure port and destinations before your cruise vacation with Royal Caribbean.

  26. Live Animal Exports (Moving Animals to Another Country)

    International Regulations for Animal Exports (IRegs) IRegs provides exporters with our best understanding of importing countries' requirements for live animals, including hatching eggs and germplasm. Please select the country of destination from the drop-down menu below, and then click "View Requirements." Live Animal Export Country Requirements.