New Zealand Eases Entry for Chinese Tourists From Australia
Starting in November 2025, New Zealand will implement a trial visa waiver policy for Chinese nationals traveling from Australia.
The government confirmed that Chinese travelers holding a valid Australian visitor, work, student, or family visa will be allowed to enter New Zealand without applying for a separate visa.
Instead, these travelers will need to obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before arrival.
This 12-month trial aims to test the policy’s effectiveness in boosting tourism and simplifying entry procedures.
NZeTA Requirement Still Applies During the Trial
While the visa requirement is waived, the NZeTA will remain mandatory for eligible Chinese travelers under the new policy.
Immigration New Zealand clarified that only those arriving directly from Australia qualify for the trial, not those simply transiting through the country.
Travelers must meet all eligibility criteria for the NZeTA, including security and health requirements.
This ensures that border control remains effective while still providing convenience for tourists.
Strengthening New Zealand’s Tourism Ties With China
Immigration New Zealand emphasized that China is one of New Zealand’s most important tourism markets.
The trial is part of a larger initiative to attract more Chinese visitors and deepen cultural and economic ties between the two countries.
By allowing visa-free access for a large group of qualified travelers, New Zealand hopes to encourage longer stays and increased spending.
This policy supports not just tourism but also trade, family connections, and bilateral cooperation.
Government Enhances Support for Chinese Travelers
To make the process even easier, the government is introducing additional resources for Chinese tourists applying for visas.
New support includes direct contact points within the Chinese travel industry and a dedicated phone line available during New Zealand business hours.
These tools are designed to provide faster responses and better customer service to applicants from China.
It also aligns with efforts to improve overall visa processing times.
Faster Visa Processing for Chinese Nationals
As of June 2025, visitor visa applications for Chinese citizens are being processed in just five days on average.
Immigration officials are working to reduce this time further, ensuring travelers receive decisions quickly and efficiently.
These improvements will complement the new trial policy, helping to make New Zealand a more attractive destination.
Faster processing times also benefit tour operators and airlines planning trips for large groups.
Over 240,000 Chinese Visitor Visas Granted in 2024
Immigration Minister Erica Stanford confirmed that over 240,000 visitor visas were issued to Chinese nationals in 2024 alone.
She highlighted that Chinese visitors contributed approximately $1.24 billion to the country’s economy in the year ending March 2025.
Stanford believes the trial visa-free program will further increase these numbers by making travel cheaper, faster, and more accessible.
She also noted that ongoing enhancements to the immigration system will continue beyond the 12-month pilot.
Economic Benefits Expected From Policy Change
Allowing visa-free entry is expected to attract more tourists and boost spending in local communities across New Zealand.
With the new policy, Chinese travelers may find it easier to include New Zealand in their travel plans after visiting Australia.
The hospitality, retail, and transportation sectors are all likely to benefit from increased tourism.
This initiative is also expected to encourage repeat visits and longer stays.
Final Thoughts
The decision to allow visa-free entry for Chinese tourists with Australian visas marks a strategic move by New Zealand.
It reflects a broader effort to grow tourism, simplify immigration processes, and foster deeper connections with one of its key international partners.
If successful, the trial could become a permanent fixture in New Zealand’s travel policy.
Travelers and tour operators should stay informed and prepare to take full advantage of this new opportunity starting in November 2025.