Australia and New Zealand consider trial of passport-free travel
Australia and New Zealand could move closer to passport-free travel, with New Zealand’s National Party proposing a trial if it returns to government.
The proposed system would be introduced ahead of the 2028 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, which Australia and New Zealand will jointly host.
Under the plan, eligible travellers would submit their passport details and digital travel declaration through a smartphone before departure.
Their information would then be checked by immigration, Customs and biosecurity authorities before they arrive.
Eligible passengers could use dedicated eGate pathways at Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown airports, while travellers selected for additional baggage or security checks would follow a separate process.
Travellers would still be required to carry a valid passport, but they would not need to physically present it at the airport gate under the proposed system.
New Zealand Tourism Minister Louise Upston said making travel easier could attract more Australian visitors and support local businesses, jobs and the wider economy.
The proposal follows a commitment made by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in 2024 to explore ways to make travel between the two countries more seamless.
New Zealand Labour leader Chris Hipkins has also indicated that his party would continue with the proposed trial if elected.
The plan would make greater use of digital credentials and biometric technology, building on the SmartGates already used by trans-Tasman travellers since 2009.
Other countries have introduced similar systems. The UK and Ireland operate a passport-free Common Travel Area, although travellers may still need official identification when using transport services.
Indonesia has also introduced an AI-powered passenger processing system that uses facial recognition to allow travellers to move through airports with fewer physical checkpoints.
If introduced, the Australia-New Zealand trial could significantly change the way eligible passengers move through airports while maintaining existing immigration and biosecurity checks.
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Source : 9 News
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