Do Cook Islands passport holders need a visa to visit the United States?

Yes. Cook Islands passport holders require a visa to enter the United States. The Cook Islands is not part of the US Visa Waiver Program (ESTA). Travelers must apply for a B-1/B-2 tourist visa at the nearest US Embassy or Consulate before travel.

How do I renew my Cook Islands passport and how long does it take?

Cook Islands passports can be renewed through the Cook Islands Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration in Rarotonga, or at New Zealand passport offices. Processing typically takes 10-15 working days for standard applications. You'll need your current/expired passport, completed application form, passport photos, and the applicable fee (approximately NZD 180-300 depending on validity period).

Is military service mandatory for Cook Islands passport holders?

No. The Cook Islands does not have its own military forces and does not impose mandatory military service on its citizens. Defense and security matters are handled by New Zealand under the free association agreement.

Can I hold dual citizenship with a Cook Islands passport?

Yes. The Cook Islands allows dual citizenship. Since Cook Islands nationality is tied to New Zealand citizenship, you can hold Cook Islands/New Zealand citizenship alongside other nationalities, subject to the laws of the other country. Many Cook Islanders hold dual citizenship with Australia, Canada, or other nations.

Do Cook Islands citizens have the right to work in the European Union?

No. Cook Islands passport holders do not have automatic right to work in EU countries. They typically need to apply for work visas or permits depending on the specific EU country. For tourism, visa requirements vary by country, with many EU nations requiring Schengen visas for Cook Islands passport holders.

What documents do I need to apply for a Cook Islands passport for the first time?

First-time applicants need: proof of Cook Islands citizenship (birth certificate or citizenship certificate), proof of identity (driver's license or existing ID), two recent passport-sized photos meeting ICAO standards, completed passport application form, and payment of fees. If born outside the Cook Islands, additional documentation proving Cook Islands descent or registration may be required.

Can Cook Islands passport holders travel to the UK visa-free?

No. Cook Islands passport holders require a visa to enter the United Kingdom. Despite the historical Commonwealth connection, Cook Islanders must apply for a UK Standard Visitor Visa before travel, which typically allows stays up to 6 months for tourism or business purposes.

How many countries can Cook Islands passport holders visit without a visa?

Cook Islands passport holders can access a limited number of countries visa-free or with visa-on-arrival, primarily Pacific island nations and select Commonwealth countries. The exact number is not widely ranked in major passport indices due to the small population. Most major destinations including the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen countries require advance visas.

Where is the nearest embassy or consulate for Cook Islands passport services?

The Cook Islands has limited diplomatic representation globally. The main passport services are provided through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Rarotonga. For citizens abroad, Cook Islands passport services are often handled through New Zealand embassies and high commissions, as New Zealand represents Cook Islands interests in most countries under their free association agreement.

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Source: Skyscanner & Official Government Websites.

Visa Requirements by Country

Complete breakdown of visa requirements for Cook Islands passport holders

Frequently Asked Questions:

Yes. Cook Islands citizens have full New Zealand citizenship rights under the Realm of New Zealand arrangement. They can live, work, and travel freely to New Zealand without a visa. For Australia, Cook Islanders can apply for the Special Category Visa (subclass 444) on arrival, allowing indefinite stay and work rights, though not automatic citizenship.

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Last Updated: November 9, 2025

Source: IATA Travel Centre, Skyscanner & Official Government Websites.

Cook Islands Passport Ranking

Quick Statistics for Cook Islands passport

Visa Requirements by Country

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can Cook Islands citizens travel visa-free to New Zealand and Australia?

Do Cook Islands passport holders need a visa to visit the United States?

How do I renew my Cook Islands passport and how long does it take?

Is military service mandatory for Cook Islands passport holders?

Can I hold dual citizenship with a Cook Islands passport?

Do Cook Islands citizens have the right to work in the European Union?

What documents do I need to apply for a Cook Islands passport for the first time?

Can Cook Islands passport holders travel to the UK visa-free?

How many countries can Cook Islands passport holders visit without a visa?

Where is the nearest embassy or consulate for Cook Islands passport services?

Explore More Passport Rankings

Cook Islands Passport Ranking

Quick Statistics for Cook Islands passport

Visa Requirements by Country

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can Cook Islands citizens travel visa-free to New Zealand and Australia?

Do Cook Islands passport holders need a visa to visit the United States?

How do I renew my Cook Islands passport and how long does it take?

Is military service mandatory for Cook Islands passport holders?

Can I hold dual citizenship with a Cook Islands passport?

Do Cook Islands citizens have the right to work in the European Union?

What documents do I need to apply for a Cook Islands passport for the first time?

Can Cook Islands passport holders travel to the UK visa-free?

How many countries can Cook Islands passport holders visit without a visa?

Where is the nearest embassy or consulate for Cook Islands passport services?

Explore More Passport Rankings