Typically, your NZeTA should be approved minutes after applying, or it may take up to 72 hours. If you haven’t received a response within three days, it’s advisable to wait a bit longer, as it could simply be taking more time. However, if you still haven’t heard anything after about a week, it’s likely that there’s an issue that has prevented the automatic approval of your application.
Keep in mind that this doesn’t necessarily mean your New Zealand eTA has been denied. It’s more probable that there was a typographical error in your submission, which has caused your application to require manual review. To find out more about your application status, you can contact New Zealand immigration.
How can I contact New Zealand immigration to check my NZeTA?
The quickest and most efficient way is to call New Zealand immigration at: +64 9 914 4100.
Their phone lines are open from 6 PM to 10 PM NZ time, making it accessible for various time zones.
Be sure to have your NZeTA application number, passport number, and date of birth handy. With this information, they will be able to quickly identify the reason why your New Zealand eTA is still pending.
I noticed a typo in my original NZeTA application. What should I do?
Don’t worry! If you made a mistake in your application, you have two options to correct it:
Option 1: Request a change to your NZeTA application
Visit this page on the NZ Immigration website: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/about-us/contact/nzeta-change-request
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Fill out the online form located in the grey section at the bottom of the page. You will need to confirm that you already have an NZeTA reference number. Enter your reference number, the passport number you used to apply, your nationality, and your date of birth. If any of these were incorrect, ensure you enter the original information as submitted.
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Next, provide the contact email you used in your original application and the date you plan to depart for New Zealand.
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In the following field, specify what information you wish to change or update. Select the relevant option. According to an immigration agent I spoke to, typos in passport numbers are considered ‘small errors’ rather than ‘passport details’, which are reserved for major changes like a stolen passport.
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A new field will appear asking what specific changes you’d like to make. Click on the applicable fields.
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Update the information accurately and mention the reason for the change (e.g., ‘typo in original passport number’), then hit submit.
Requests for changes to your NZeTA are free, but it may take approximately 10 business days for processing (give or take a few days).
If your travel date to New Zealand is approaching and you don’t have enough time, you will need to consider Option 2:
Option 2: Apply for a new NZeTA and IVL from the beginning
This option is likely to be approved more quickly (within minutes up to 72 hours, just like it should have been initially). However, you’ll need to pay the application fee again.
This situation also highlights the importance of completing your NZeTA and IVL applications as soon as you book your flights, which can significantly reduce anxiety if any complications arise.
