Pre-departure testing
Do I need a test?
International travel
Pre-departure test requirements are set by the country you're transiting or travelling to. This includes test type and the timeframe in which you need to complete your pre-departure testing.
If your journey has multiple stops or transit points and there are different requirements for each stage, you will need to comply with the most stringent requirement. Check requirements for international travel.
What test should I take?
The type of test you need to take depends on the destination you are travelling to, including transit points.
Please ensure you check your destination's entry requirements carefully.
PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)
PCR tests are accepted by most countries that require a pre-departure test. The time frame in which you need to take your test can differ depending on your destination.
RAT (Rapid Antigen Test)
Rapid antigen tests can provide a result in 15-30 minutes. They are less sensitive than a PCR test, however, and are not accepted by all countries.
IgM antibody test
Antibody tests can indicate whether you've had past exposure to COVID-19. Some countries may require an antibody test in addition to a pre-departure test.
How to show proof
It's important you have valid proof of your pre-departure COVID-19 test result before you check-in and arrive at the airport.
A valid COVID-19 test result should typically include:
- Your full name
- Your date of birth and/or passport number
- Test result
- Test method used
- Where and when the test was taken
- Name of the testing laboratory
What you need to know
- Self-administered COVID-19 tests taken without supervision of a trained person may not be accepted for travel depending on government requirements.
- Tests completed outside the required timeframe won't be accepted.
- If you receive an inconclusive test result, this will be treated the same as a positive test result.
- We recommend that you have printed copies of all necessary documentation with you while you are travelling. You may be requested to provide these documents during other parts of your journey.
- If you're feeling unwell and experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, you should defer your travel plans.
- As travel requirements are constantly changing, please continue to check travel alerts and keep up to date with all travel requirements leading up to your departure.
Where to get a test
The facilities in the following locations provide pre-departure tests with approved paperwork for international travel.
This information serves only as a guide. Air New Zealand does not endorse, recommend or approve any providers listed below. Air New Zealand does not take responsibility for any delay by a test provider in providing results.
It is your responsibility to ensure you obtain a valid test certificate in time for check-in. Failure to present the correct test and meet travel requirements for your destination will lead to denied boarding.