The New Zealand passport remains one of the most powerful in the world, but the number of countries now requiring Kiwis to have an electronic visa before travelling is increasing.
According to the Henley Passport Index, New Zealand had visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 187 countries in 2025, making it the fifth highest ranking passport globally.
However, more countries are adopting an e-visa system, which requires travellers to complete an online form – and usually pay a small fee – before leaving home.
That means Kiwis travelling to those areas will need to plan ahead. Below is a list of some countries and regions which have experienced changes recently, or are expected to in the future.
United Kingdom
An e-visa is now required for Kiwis who wish to enter the United Kingdom. It costs 16 pounds ($36) and allows a stay in the country of up to six months.
Introduced in January 2025, New Zealanders need to obtain the e-visa through the country’s Electronic Travel Authorisation, even for short stays.
This replaced the previous system in the UK, where Kiwis could enter the country visa-free.
European Union (Schengen Area)
Currently, Kiwis can enter most European countries in the Schengen Area visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180 day period. However, this is set to change soon.
Expected to begin sometime next year, after a series of delays, the Schengen Area will require an e-visa through the European Travel Information and Authorisation System. It will cost 7 euros ($13), the EU says.
The Schengen area currently consists of 29 countries, 25 of which are within the the EU, including major European nations France, Italy, Spain, Germany and Poland. Outside the EU but in the area are Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
United States
Kiwis have long needed an e-visa to visit the US. But as the country increases border controls, it may be worthwhile checking on any changing requirements before travelling there.
Currently, Kiwis can get a 90 day e-visa through the United States’ Visa Waiver Program for US$21 ($35), which once approved, is valid for two-years.
Why are more countries adopting an e-visa programme?
Corporate Traveller NZ general manager Angie Forsyth told 1News the recent introduction of e-visas in countries like the UK is part of a “growing trend” of countries digitising their border and immigration systems to “enhance efficiency and security”.
“While the cost of an e-visa is relatively small, the consequences of being unaware of this requirement could be significant, particularly for travellers on tight schedules,” she said.
“For our customers London is one of our top booked international destinations, as travellers use it as a gateway to connect to different regions in Europe.
“Preparing for these requirements ahead of time ensures smoother arrivals and avoids costly last-minute complications.”
To avoid being denied boarding, Forsyth strongly recommended travellers check they have their e-visa issued before they travel to avoid any disruptions or financial loss.
“Our travel managers have been informing affected travellers of these changes, and we expect to see this trend continue of countries moving towards electronic entry methods,” Forsyth said.
Other countries which require an e-visa
While some of the countries mentioned above have made changes in recent times, other countries also have an e-visa in place.
Zimbabwe, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Jordan and Egypt are among countries requiring either a visa on arrival or an e-visa.
New Zealanders travelling to Israel, Vietnam, Pakistan, Nigeria, India, Cuba and Côte d’Ivoire need an e-visa.
For up to date information on a country’s visa requirements, travellers need to visit the country’s appropriate government agency website.