Read about the ETIAS visa for NZ citizens deadline. Get a list of official, authenticated advice regarding the upcoming changes to the Schengen Area in Europe. Specifically the implementation of the ETIAS and EES systems.
ETIAS visa for NZ citizens update on November deadline
The EES system is scheduled to begin on November 10, 2024. However, it’s expected there will be some initial teething problems. Additionally, some member countries are attempting to close their borders before the new systems are fully in place, adding to the complexity.
Please note that the New Zealand government has limited involvement in supporting our community regarding these changes.
As such, you will need to rely on available online information and your own judgement. Always carry proof of your travel details, such as tickets and transportation plans, and continue to get your passport stamped where required.
It’s important to be aware that border agents may also be confused by the new rules, and you could face more scrutiny than usual. Stay calm, friendly, and remember that they are simply doing their job.
If you are challenged but believe you are complying with the rules, particularly those relating to bilateral agreements, it’s crucial to mention Article 20(2) of the Implementation of the Schengen Area Agreement. This article specifically addresses our situation in relation to these bilateral agreements and the Schengen framework.
Refer to https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/infographics/schengen-visa/
At this stage, it is unclear which countries will honour their agreements after November.
However, note that it is illegal for countries not to honour these agreements unless they formally renounced their right to do so by March 31, 2018. Otherwise, they are required to comply with EU regulations. Unfortunately, even New Zealand consular officials may not be fully aware of this, and communication between parties remains poor.
From November onwards, you may face challenges at the border and may need to advocate for yourself. I strongly recommend carrying the contact details of your local MFAT consular official, in case you encounter difficulties or face detention. While New Zealand consular staff are often reluctant to provide assistance, they can help you access free legal support if needed.
If you have any questions, feel free to ask, though I may not always have definitive answers as the situation continues to evolve. The links provided are your best resource in this complicated environment. Hang in there – it might be a rough few months ahead, but we will get through it, and your rights will always be protected.
Travelling in Europe and the Schengen area for New Zealanders
- https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/travel-tips-travel-europe
- https://www.schengenvisainfo.com/spain/visa/
- https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias/who-should-apply_en
- https://www.frontex.europa.eu/what-we-do/etias/about-etias/
Blog article by Mark Fyers
Official New Zealand in Spain government information
Visas for Spain (Information provided by the New Zealand Embassy in Madrid)
The New Zealand Embassy is not responsible for providing information on entry requirements or issuing visas to New Zealanders wishing to visit, work or reside in Spain. As the Embassy cannot comment on the immigration laws of another country, it is suggested to consult with the Spanish Embassy in New Zealand. If you are currently in Spain and require information on applying for a visa or the right to remain in the country, the competent authority to give advice will be the Oficina de Extranjería.
- https://www.interior.gob.es/opencms/en/inicio
- https://mpt.gob.es/portal/delegaciones_gobierno/extranjeria/extranjeria_ddgg.htm
- https://find-a-professional-service-abroad.service.csd.fcdo.gov.uk/find?serviceType=lawyers&country=spain
If you are in New Zealand and you have any visa related questions please contact the Spanish Embassy in Wellington below:
Official New Zealand in Spain social media pages
- https://www.facebook.com/nzembassyspain/
- https://www.instagram.com/nzinspain/
- https://twitter.com/NZinSpain/
Please note you will need to book an appointment with the Spanish Embassy in Wellington. You may have to wait several months before you attend your appointment. At your appointment with all your required documents, you will have to leave your NZ passport with the Spanish Embassy. After your appointment you may have to wait 10-14 days for your visa to be printed and affixed to your NZ passport. Make sure you arrive into Spain on the stated date on your visa. This is common advice for the Spain Working Holiday Visa.
Contact Kiwis in Spain
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to message Kent or stay connected via our Facebook and Instagram pages.
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