Key points
- From late 2026, New Zealand passport holders will need ETIAS authorization to visit France and the rest of the Schengen Area
- ETIAS is an online pre-screening step, not a traditional visa, similar in scope to the U.S. ESTA
- Once approved, ETIAS is valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, allowing stays of 90 days in any 180-day period
- Bilateral agreements with certain Schengen countries, including France, may allow stays beyond the standard 90 days
Beginning in late 2026, New Zealand passport holders will need ETIAS authorization to visit France and other European destinations. This digital pre-screening system is designed to strengthen border security while keeping travel access straightforward for eligible visitors.
New ETIAS requirements for New Zealand citizens
From the final quarter of 2026, New Zealanders will need to complete an online ETIAS application before traveling to Europe. The requirement applies to all visa-exempt nationals entering the Schengen Area. Unlike a traditional visa, ETIAS is a simplified registration process, comparable to the U.S. ESTA.
ETIAS is a European Union travel authorization program, not an iVisa service. iVisa is a private company that can help you prepare and submit an application, but final decisions rest with the relevant authorities.
Application requirements and timeline
You will generally need the following to apply:
- A valid New Zealand passport (with at least six months of validity beyond your arrival date)
- An active email address to receive your confirmation
- A valid payment method (debit or credit card, PayPal, or similar)
The exact launch date has not yet been confirmed, though implementation is expected in the final quarter of 2026. When ETIAS is applied for, a government fee applies; if you choose to apply through a service such as iVisa, a separate service fee would apply on top of that government fee.
ETIAS validity and Schengen rules
Once approved, ETIAS authorization remains valid for three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. Travelers may stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day rolling period.
A few points worth keeping in mind:
- Applicants must name their first destination country (for example, France) but can adjust travel plans afterward
- ETIAS covers 30 participating European nations, with free movement between them
- Multiple entries are permitted throughout the authorization period
- Travelers needing an airport layover in a participating country must also hold ETIAS approval
Bilateral extension opportunities
New Zealand citizens may be able to extend stays beyond the standard 90-day allowance through bilateral agreements with certain Schengen countries. After the initial ETIAS period, additional time may be available depending on each country’s own rules.
Countries with such bilateral agreements include:
Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
As an example, a traveler might spend 90 days across multiple Schengen nations, then remain an additional 90 days specifically in France under its bilateral arrangement. Rules vary by country, so check official sources before relying on any extension.
Frequently asked questions
What if my passport is close to expiring? You need at least six months of validity beyond your intended travel dates. If your passport is approaching its expiration date, renew it before applying.
Do I need to print my confirmation? Printing is not required. ETIAS authorization is linked digitally to the passport you provide during the application, so you must travel with that same passport.
What activities does ETIAS cover? ETIAS covers tourism, family visits, and short business engagements. Employment and study require a different visa category.
