New Zealand Removes Isolation Requirement for Vaccinated Travelers

The Government of New Zealand is easing its isolation and quarantine requirements for most travelers.

As of March 19, 2022, unvaccinated New Zealand citizens and vaccinated foreign nationals entering New Zealand will be able to self-test on arrival and will no longer need to enter Managed Isolation and Quarantine (MIQ). MIQ will only be used in limited circumstances — for example, for some maritime and international aircrew.

Who can enter New Zealand now?

The following people can enter New Zealand now from anywhere in the world and self-test on arrival:

  • Vaccinated and unvaccinated New Zealand citizens
  • Vaccinated New Zealand residents
  • Vaccinated travelers with a border exception
  • Vaccinated travelers on a working holiday scheme
  • Other vaccinated eligible travelers under current border settings

From April 13, 2022, The following vaccinated people can enter New Zealand and self-test on arrival:

  • Australian citizens and permanent residents
  • Current temporary work and student visa holders from anywhere in the world, with a valid visa who can still meet their visa requirements — this includes both visa holders currently offshore and those in New Zealand who choose to travel overseas and wish to return
  • Up to 5,000 international students from anywhere in the world, for semester 2

From May 2, 2022, the following vaccinated people can enter New Zealand and self-test on arrival:

  • Visitors from countries who do not need a visa (visa waiver visitors)
  • Visitors from other countries who already hold a valid visitor visa

From July 2022, the following vaccinated people can enter New Zealand and self-test on arrival:

  • Travelers arriving under the Accredited Employer Work Visa categories

From October 2022, all visa categories will reopen from October 2022 onwards, including visitor and student visas.

 

Erickson Insights

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, and guidance from government agencies and health advisories change often. Please visit here for more information about international travel to and from New Zealand.

Erickson Immigration Group will continue to share updates as more news is available. If you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions, please contact your employer or EIG attorney.