EASIER TRANSIT FOR CHINESE NATIONALS THROUGH NEW ZEALAND STARTING NOVEMBER 2025
- Joice M. Jose MSW, GDTAS, RMA, NZLIA
- Jun 27
- 2 min read
Updated: 12 hours ago
By Joice M. Jose MSW, GDTAS
Australian Registered Migration Agent (MARN: 2318264)
New Zealand Licensed Immigration Adviser since 2011 (NZLIA # 201100295)
📱 Mob/WhatsApp/BOTIM: +61 432 847 291
📧 Email: support@fortuneimmigration.com
New Zealand Eases Transit Rules for Chinese Nationals
In a significant step toward strengthening its international ties, New Zealand has announced a major change to its transit visa policy for Chinese nationals. Beginning November 2025, eligible Chinese travelers will no longer need a Transit Visa when passing through Auckland International Airport—they can instead apply for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA). This policy shift reflects the growing importance of New Zealand’s relationship with China and is expected to simplify travel, reduce costs, and encourage more seamless transit for Chinese citizens traveling onward to other destinations.
What Is Changing?
Currently, Chinese nationals transiting through New Zealand must apply for and be granted a Transit Visa. However, from November 2025, Chinese passport holders will only need an NZeTA to transit through Auckland International Airport, eliminating the extra step of securing a separate Transit Visa. This change complements earlier updates allowing Chinese nationals with valid Australian visas to travel to New Zealand using an NZeTA instead of a full Visitor Visa, making travel between China, Australia, and New Zealand more accessible than ever before.
Who Needs a Transit Visa Before November 2025?
Until the new policy takes effect, Chinese nationals transiting through New Zealand still need a Transit Visa. If you are planning travel before November 2025, you must continue to follow the current visa requirements. Additionally, if you already have a valid Transit Visa, it will remain in effect until its expiration—even after the new NZeTA-based system is implemented.
Benefits of the Transit Visa Waiver
The upcoming changes provide multiple benefits for Chinese travelers:
Lower Costs: An NZeTA is significantly more affordable than a traditional Transit Visa.
Faster Processing: The simplified online or app-based application process saves time.
Greater Convenience: Transit through New Zealand becomes easier, especially for those en route to Australia or the Pacific Islands.
Stronger Bilateral Relations: The move underscores New Zealand’s commitment to enhancing its relationship with China and making travel more accessible for its citizens.
New Zealand’s decision to waive the Transit Visa requirement for Chinese nationals in favor of the NZeTA marks a positive step toward greater travel accessibility and stronger international cooperation. For Chinese travelers, this means easier, cheaper, and faster transit through Auckland International Airport—paving the way for smoother journeys and more opportunities for global travel.
If you're planning to transit through New Zealand in the near future or post-November 2025, it’s important to understand these updates and prepare accordingly.
We're here to help! If you need any professional assistance don't hesitate to reach out to the Fortune Immigration and Education team.
Contact us today:
Phone/Mobile/WhatsApp/Botim: +61 432 847 291
Disclaimer: This article is valid only at the time of initial publication and is subject to change. The content does not constitute legal advice or recommendations and should not be relied upon as such. Always seek legal and professional immigration or education advice as your situation may differ from the general guidelines provided.
