France ETIAS: New critical entry rules for New Zealand citizens for 2026

Starting in 2026, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is mandatory for New Zealand citizens visiting France and the rest of Europe.

This digital pre-screening system enhances border security while ensuring that travel to France remains smooth and straightforward for eligible visitors.

Find out the most up-to-date ETIAS info here.

New ETIAS requirements for New Zealand citizens: what you need to know

From the end of 2026, New Zealanders must apply for an ETIAS before entering Europe. This new EU system applies to travelers from all visa-exempt countries visiting the Schengen Area, including France.

The ETIAS is similar to travel registrations like the United States ESTA. It's a simpler process than a regular visa.

Key takeaway: Even though New Zealanders don’t need a traditional visa, ETIAS approval is mandatory before boarding your flight.

When and how to apply for the France ETIAS: Step-by-step

The application process for ETIAS is fast and fully online, but you’ll need to have the following on hand:

✔️ A valid New Zealand passport (must be valid for at least 6 months after your arrival)

✔️ A working email address to receive your ETIAS confirmation

✔️ A valid payment method (debit or credit card, PayPal, or other) to pay the processing fees

From when do New Zealand passport holders need the ETIAS?

The exact implementation date for ETIAS is unknown, but we expect this requirement to be mandatory from the last quarter of 2026.

💡Femke Strietman, iVisa travel expert, recommends:

"The ETIAS has been pushed back a couple of times, but is expected to be implemented in 2026. Make sure to bookmark this page for your 2026 trip to Europe. We'll update it as soon as more info becomes available."

ETIAS validity and Schengen rules

After approval, your ETIAS is valid for 3 years or until your passport expires - whichever comes first. You can stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

Important reminders:

• You must list the first country that you plan to visit in your application (for example, France). However, once you have an approved ETIAS you can still change your itinerary.
• ETIAS covers 30 countries, and once you’re in, you can travel freely within the area.

• Multiple entries are allowed while your ETIAS is valid.

  💡 iVisa travel expert, Femke Strietman, adds:

"Even if you’re just transiting (leaving the airport) through France or another European country, you still need an ETIAS. Many travelers overlook this, especially with short layovers."

Extra travel time: the bilateral agreement perk for New Zealanders

Good news! As a New Zealand passport holder, you may be able to extend your stay in certain Schengen countries beyond the standard 90-day limit. This is thanks to special bilateral agreements between New Zealand and a few European countries (like France and others).

Here’s the simple version:

• ETIAS covers your first 90 days in any Schengen country (or across multiple countries combined).
• After that, some countries may allow you to stay longer under separate agreements.

For example, you might be able to stay an extra 90 days in France after your ETIAS period is up.

Here’s the list of Schengen countries that currently have bilateral visa waiver agreements with New Zealand:

• Austria
• Belgium
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Italy
• Luxembourg
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Portugal
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland

✅ Example: You could spend 90 days in the Schengen Area (e.g., visiting multiple countries), and then stay an additional 90 days in France under its bilateral agreement - but not in other countries.

💡 John Sawyer, Europe travel guide, recommends:

"Keep detailed records of your travel dates. Mixing ETIAS and bilateral stays can get confusing, and overstays can lead to penalties."

Frequently asked questions about the ETIAS

Can I apply for ETIAS if my passport is about to expire?

No - you need at least 6 months of validity beyond your travel dates. Renew your passport before applying if it's close to expiring.

Must I print the ETIAS confirmation?

No, you won't need to print anything. The ETIAS authorization is digitally linked to the passport you've applied with, so make sure to use that same passport for traveling to France.

Is ETIAS valid for business trips?

Yes! ETIAS covers tourism, family visits, and short business trips. However, you cannot work or study under an ETIAS, those activities require a different type of visa.

Need help? Contact us

Questions about the ETIAS application or your travel plans to France? Our friendly customer service team is ready to help. Reach out to us anytime via live chat or WhatsApp.