New Zealand relaxes visa rules to lure digital nomads

To boost its economy, the New Zealand government is easing visa regulations, allowing vacationing tourists to work remotely during their visit to the country. This policy adjustment, which took effect this week, will enable visitors to work while they travel.

Government ministers stated that updating the visitor visa is aimed at adapting to today's flexible work environment and providing a boost to the tourism industry. New Zealand is attracting more digital nomads by relaxing its visa rules. Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis said, "This change is part of the government's plan to unlock New Zealand's potential by putting the country on a faster growth trajectory."

Minister Willis also pointed out, "Tourism is New Zealand's second-largest source of export revenue, generating nearly NZ$11 billion (US$9.9 billion) and providing almost 200,000 jobs. Making the country more attractive to ‘digital nomads’—people who work remotely while traveling—will enhance New Zealand’s appeal as a tourist destination.”

Tourism Minister Louise Upston said that digital nomad visas are becoming increasingly common around the world, and New Zealand wants a piece of the action. "Many countries offer digital nomad visas, and that list is growing, so we need to keep up to ensure New Zealand is an attractive destination for those looking to 'work-cation' abroad."

The visa change will allow people to work remotely for foreign employers while vacationing in New Zealand. The government has cautioned that anyone planning to work remotely for more than 90 days should consider potential tax implications. This change applies to all visitor visas, including those for tourists and family visits, as well as partners and guardians holding long-term visas. New Zealand's economy fell into a technical recession in the third quarter of last year, and the government is eager to improve economic growth.