Tourists wishing to visit New Zealand are required to pay an environmental tourism levy (known as the IVL). This measure does not apply to New Zealand Working Holiday holders. How do I pay this tax?
IVL environmental tax: definition
From 1 October 2019, the New Zealand government has introduced an entry tax for tourists. You'll need to plan an extra budget for your holiday (including the cost of the NZeTA where applicable). The main purpose of this tax is to help finance environmental protection and the various infrastructures that tourists enjoy when they visit the country. The tax was introduced because, according to one study, tourism is responsible for 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
The IVL (International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy) costs around 35 New Zealand dollars (20 €). It is included in the NZeTA application fee. From 1 October 2024, the amount will be NZD 100 (€56).. The fee is valid for 2 years until the expiry of the NZeTA.
International visitors applying for an NZeTA are subject to the tax, including those from visa-exempt countries for short stays (90 days or less). This does not apply to New Zealand nationals, Australians, diplomats, people with New Zealand visas, Business Visa or APEC travel card holders and passengers in transit without baggage reclaim.
What are the changes to visas?
This also changes things when it comes to visas. Until recently, nationals of several European countries, including France, could apply for a free visa or simply be exempted from the visa requirement, but this is no longer the case. They will have to apply for an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authorization) to be allowed to enter New Zealand. The application for this authorisation must be made online or via a free application that you can download onto your smartphone. It costs a minimum of NZ$17 (10 €) consular fee from the application or NZ$23 (13 €) from the Internet).
Travellers in transit through airports or passengers on a cruise calling at a New Zealand port are also required to have a travel authorisation (known as a NZETA) and therefore to pay the ecological tax. New Zealand's PVT travellers are also affected by the NZeTA.
The NZETA application is made online and you will be asked to fill in information about your passport and your forthcoming trip. You must upload a copy of your passport and a recent passport photo. You will then receive confirmation of the NZeTA by e-mail within 72 hours.
Don't forget to print it!
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