New Zealand has introduced relaxed visa requirements aimed at attracting ’digital nomads,’ individuals who work remotely while travelling.
The move, designed to revitalise the country’s tourism sector, allows visitors to work remotely for foreign employers while holidaying in New Zealand for up to 90 days. After this period, they may be required to pay resident taxes.
The country’s Immigration Minister, Erica Stanford, described the policy as a boost for the economy, saying, “The change will enable many visitors to extend their stays, which will lead to more money being spent in the country.”
The country’s tourism industry, once its largest export sector contributing more than NZ$40bn annually, has struggled since the COVID-19 pandemic forced border closures. The economy remains in a fragile state, with inflation, stagnant growth, and rising unemployment leading many to seek opportunities abroad.
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Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis highlighted the potential benefits of the policy, stating, “It was hoped the move would attract highly skilled people with roles that connect them to powerhouse firms and industries globally.” She clarified that these remote workers “won’t be competing for Kiwi jobs,” as their employment remains based overseas.
The new rules apply to all visitor visa categories, including those visiting family, partners, or guardians on longer-term visas.
However, the government has stressed that only remote work for foreign employers is permitted under the programme, with in-country employment requiring specific work visas.
New Zealand joins a growing list of nations, including Japan, South Korea, Portugal, and Brazil, that offer visa schemes tailored to digital nomads. The trend, which began in the 2010s, gained momentum during the pandemic as remote work became more widespread.
According to BBC, while digital nomad policies have been praised for boosting local economies, they have also drawn criticism in some regions. In cities such as Cape Town, South Africa, the influx of remote workers has been linked to rising costs.
Similarly, countries like Spain and Greece have faced protests over over-tourism attributed to this growing demographic.
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