Australia and New Zealand Revamp Travel in 2026: New Visa Rules, Biometric Systems, and Digital Forms Will Transform Your Holiday Experience!

Published on
November 28, 2025

Traveling to Australia and New Zealand in 2026 and beyond will come with a few important changes in regulations, forms, and electronic travel authorizations. Whether you’re heading to Australia for business or planning a holiday to New Zealand, understanding these new rules is crucial to ensuring a smooth travel experience. This article breaks down the necessary forms and regulations travelers need to be aware of when visiting Australia and New Zealand from 2026 onwards.

Australia’s Entry Requirements for 2026

Australia’s entry requirements are straightforward but are still evolving with increasing digitalization. As of 2026, visitors to Australia will need to comply with several important regulations, depending on their nationality and the purpose of their visit.

1. Visa Requirements
   Travelers from most countries, including the United States, Europe, and Asia, will still need a visa to enter Australia. The most common types of visas include:
   • Electronic Travel Authority (ETA 601) for short-term tourism or business visits.
   • eVisitor Visa (subclass 651), available to European passport holders, which allows travel for short stays.
   • Visitor Visa (subclass 600) for longer stays or for people from countries not eligible for the ETA.
   • Working Holiday Visa for younger travelers who want to explore Australia while working.
     Depending on the visa type, visitors can stay in Australia for 3 months to a year.

   Travelers should apply for the appropriate visa before departing, as on-arrival visas are no longer common, especially for tourists. The ETA or eVisitor applications are completed online, and the process is typically quick and simple. However, travelers should apply at least a week in advance to avoid last-minute delays.

2. Passport Validity
   Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Australia. Ensure your passport meets this requirement to avoid any delays or complications when entering the country.
3. Proof of Funds and Onward Travel
   Depending on the visa type, travelers may need to show proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay in Australia. You may also need to provide evidence of onward travel (e.g., a return ticket or itinerary). This is especially important for those applying for a Visitor Visa or other long-term entry options.
4. Health and Character Declarations
   Certain travelers may be required to submit a health examination or character checks as part of their visa application. This is typically necessary for individuals planning to stay longer or for those coming from countries with specific health risks.

New Zealand’s Entry Requirements for 2026

Like Australia, New Zealand also requires most international travelers to meet specific entry requirements, which will continue to evolve with new technological implementations. Here’s what you need to know when traveling to New Zealand from 2026 onwards:

1. New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA)
   Starting 2026, travelers from many countries will still be required to apply for the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before arrival. The NZeTA is mandatory for visa-waiver countries such as the United States, European Union nations, and several other countries around the world.
   • The NZeTA can be obtained online through the official New Zealand Immigration website.
   • This authorization is valid for multiple visits within a two-year period and allows stays of up to 3 months at a time.

   The NZeTA system helps streamline the process of granting entry while increasing security. All visitors must apply at least 72 hours before their departure for New Zealand, ensuring that your travel documents are processed in time.

2. International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)
   From 2026 onwards, travelers visiting New Zealand will be required to pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL). This levy is designed to contribute to the maintenance and development of tourism infrastructure and the preservation of New Zealand’s natural environment.
   • The IVL is generally paid during the NZeTA application process.
   • It applies to all travelers who need an NZeTA or a visa to enter New Zealand, except for citizens of New Zealand or Australia.
3. Visitor Visa (for Longer Stays)
   For travelers who intend to stay in New Zealand for more than 3 months or who are coming for purposes such as study or work, a Visitor Visa is required. This visa will need to be applied for through the New Zealand Immigration website.
   • It is important to check the specific requirements for work, study, or other visas if you plan to stay longer.
4. Passport Validity and Entry Conditions
   As with Australia, your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of your arrival in New Zealand. Travelers may also need to present additional documentation, such as proof of sufficient funds and onward travel.
5. Health Declarations
   New Zealand may also require travelers to submit a health declaration or undergo a health examination. This could be necessary for visitors coming from countries with high health risks or for those applying for long-term visas.

Changes to Travel Documents and Systems from 2026 Onwards

As of 2026, travelers to Australia and New Zealand will be increasingly interacting with digital systems for entry purposes. The NZeTA and ETA systems are set to become even more streamlined, with travelers encouraged to complete applications online to ensure a quicker entry process. Furthermore, biometric systems at airports are expected to become more common, allowing passengers to use facial recognition for identification and streamlined boarding.

Both countries are also expected to further digitize their visa systems. For instance, the move towards online applications and biometric data collection will likely be expanded. This means that travelers will need to prepare for increased online processing of their travel documentation, including visas, health checks, and entry forms.

What Travelers Should Do in 2026 and Beyond

For travelers heading to Australia or New Zealand in 2026 and beyond, here’s a checklist of things to keep in mind:

1. Apply for NZeTA or ETA: Ensure that you apply for the appropriate electronic travel authorization (NZeTA for New Zealand, ETA for Australia) before departure. Complete your application at least 72 hours before traveling.
2. Check Passport Validity: Ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival.
3. Pay the IVL for New Zealand: If traveling to New Zealand, remember to pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy as part of your NZeTA application.
4. Have Proof of Funds and Onward Travel: Be prepared to show proof of sufficient funds and possibly a return or onward ticket.
5. Stay Updated on Health Regulations: While no widespread health screenings are planned, travelers should remain aware of any health or vaccination requirements for entering either country.

Conclusion: Be Prepared for Digital Travel in 2026

Starting in 2026, travelers to Australia and New Zealand will experience a more digitally streamlined travel process, from applying for entry permits to passing through immigration and security. Electronic travel authorizations, biometric systems, and online visa applications will be essential components of the entry process. Ensuring that you have the right documents ready and understanding the new regulations will make your journey smoother and faster, allowing you to enjoy your time in these beautiful countries without hassle.