Cook IslandsEritrea: Visa required

Cook IslandsEritrea

Do New Zealand passport holders need a visa for Eritrea?

Visa required

Yes. New Zealand passport holders need to obtain a visa in advance before travelling to Eritrea.

A visa must be obtained in advance, typically from an embassy or consulate, before travel.

Cook Islands does not issue its own passport; residents travel on a New Zealand passport. See the New Zealand passport.

Source: us.embassyeritrea.org (checked July 18, 2026).

    RequirementVisa required
    Maximum stayLength of stay varies
    ScopeTourism, ordinary passport
    Action before travelYes, arrange in advance
    Data as of2026-10-19
    Visa-free access to Eritrea1 of 242 nationalities tracked

Travelling the other way? Eritrea passport holders visiting Cook Islands: Visa on arrival.

Eritrea drives on the right, the opposite side to Cook Islands. If you're renting a car, budget extra care at first, especially at junctions and roundabouts.

Visa-free alternatives near Eritrea

New Zealand passport holders can visit these nearby destinations without a visa in advance:

Other visa-free destinations for New Zealand passport holders

See all New Zealand destinations →

Frequently asked questions

Do New Zealand passport holders need a visa for Eritrea?

Yes. New Zealand passport holders need to obtain a visa in advance before travelling to Eritrea.

What currency is used in Eritrea?

Eritrean nakfa (ERN).

What is the emergency number in Eritrea?

113 / 114 / 116.

Does Eritrea drive on the same side of the road as Cook Islands?

Eritrea drives on the right, the opposite side to Cook Islands. If you're renting a car, budget extra care at first, especially at junctions and roundabouts.

What time zone is Eritrea in?

Asmara (UTC+3).

What is the nearest airport to Asmara?

Asmara International Airport (ASM), about 4 km away.

How many countries can enter Eritrea without a visa?

1 of the 242 nationalities this site tracks can enter Eritrea visa-free, with a visa on arrival, or with an eTA.

What nearby countries can New Zealand passport holders visit without a visa instead of Eritrea?

Ethiopia, Kuwait, Egypt, Kenya, Israel, Jordan.

Visa rules change frequently and can depend on your specific circumstances. This site is compiled from public government sources and is provided for general information only. Always confirm requirements with the official immigration authority or a consulate of your destination before you travel.