As inflation and interest rates have continued to cause major economic woes in New Zealand, the government has been looking for new ways to boost that same economy. Enter their new rules about visas for foreigners and working from New Zealand. With that move, the Land of the Long White Cloud moves into the era of the digital nomad and hopefully a new source of income for the country.
Starting January 27, 2025, visitors are permitted to work remotely for foreign companies while in New Zealand. The difference between this and similar initiatives in other countries is that it isn't a visa per se. In fact, what the government is doing is relaxing existing visa rules. Now, anyone already on a visitor visa can work while holidaying in the country for up to 90 days. Basically, you just apply for the normal tourist visa with the understanding that you can stay longer and work.
It's important to understand that you have to be employed by a foreign company and be on a work vacation for this to apply. If your job actually requires you to be in New Zealand for whatever reason, you still need get the appropriate visa in place. There is also the potential for a nomadic visa to be created by New Zealand in the future, though there is no announcement or timetable on that front. This is what digital nomads will have to work with for now.
More than three million visitors head to New Zealand every year. 2024 saw 3.25 million tourists travel to the country, a significant increase from 2023 but still below their pre-pandemic numbers. New Zealand is well known for its stunning natural landscapes as well a modern cities. For any digital nomads heading this way, there will be no shortage of experiences.