This week, New Zealand launched a new “digital nomad scheme”, allowing visitors to work remotely for their employers while in the country.
The government relaxed its visa requirements to attract digital nomads in an attempt to boost tourism.
The initiative went into effect immediately. It changes visitor visa conditions, permitting remote work for foreign companies.
This policy was introduced by Immigration Minister Erica Stanford, Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis, and Tourism Minister Louise Upston.
Visitors from visa-waiver countries such as the US, Japan, South Korea, Argentina, and the European Union, can now work remotely under their existing visas.
The new policy also allows for extended stays, with the possibility of converting the visitor visa. You can now stay up to nine months, up from the previous limit of three of six months.
Stanford advised those working for more than 90 days to consider potential tax implications.
“The change is part of the Government’s plan to unlock New Zealand’s potential by shifting the country onto a faster growth track,” the growth minister said.
The country is ‘suffering the biggest hit in the world in 2024’ as interest rates and inflation strained the economy.
However, the rules only apply to those undertaking remote work for overseas companies.
Those whose employment requires them to be in New Zealand, such as salespeople, must still obtain visas relevant to their circumstances.