Updated 04 January 2021
New Zealand now requires a negative PCR test for all passengers coming from either the UK or US
The New Zealand border is currently closed to almost all arrivals.
New Zealand citizens and residents returning to New Zealand may travel to New Zealand and do not need any formal exemption.
There are a small number of additional, limited exceptions to the ban on travelling to and entering New Zealand. The following people should seek approval from Immigration New Zealand (INZ) using the limited exceptions process:
- partners, dependent children (aged 24 years and under) and legal guardians of New Zealand citizens and residents
- Australian citizens and permanent residents who normally live in New Zealand
- essential health workers
- other essential workers who are specifically agreed to by the New Zealand Government
- Samoan and Tongan citizens making essential travel
- New Zealand-based partners and dependent children (aged 19 years and under) of a work or student visa holder who is in New Zealand
- critical humanitarian travel
- maritime crew
Quarantine requirements
Anyone entering New Zealand is required to undergo quarantine or managed isolation in an approved facility for a minimum of 14 days. Arrivals must then test negative for COVID-19 before entering the community.
From 5 October, travellers to New Zealand will need to register on the Managed Isolation Allocation System as the first step to securing their place in a managed isolation facility. Before you book your flights, you need to register for a voucher for managed isolation. Your voucher allocates you a place in a managed isolation facility. For more information see Secure your place in managed isolation.
Provision of a voucher for managed isolation does not guarantee entry into New Zealand. You must first ensure you qualify to enter the country under New Zealand’s border restrictions.
There are a few exceptional circumstances in which people can apply for an exemption from managed isolation. Visit the New Zealand Ministry of Health website for more information.
On 11 August, the New Zealand government introduced legislation relating to charges for managed isolation for New Zealanders and permanent residents.
You will be liable for a managed isolation charge if you are currently overseas and return to NZ for a period of less than 90 days; or you leave NZ after the regulations came into effect (12.01am on 11 August 2020) and return at a later date.
Pre-departure testing
Pre-departure COVID-19 testing is mandatory for flights with Emirates and Etihad Airways.