New Zealand Nomad Visa: Everything You Need to Know

Main Highlights

• This visa targets individuals who work remotely for overseas employers.

• Visitors must adhere to conditions that prevent them from engaging in physical work for New Zealand employers.

• Tax exemption applies if stay is under 92 days, with potential extensions under tax treaties.

• The visa boosts New Zealand’s economy by attracting remote workers to spend more time and money in the country.

For many today, personal freedom is prioritized over financial stability, with individuals exploring multiple avenues to achieve both. Because of that, Remote work has gained massive traction. With that, New Zealand has introduced a visitor visa that opens up opportunities for digital nomads – individuals who work remotely for employers or clients abroad while exploring new countries. This change not only enhances New Zealand’s attractiveness as a travel destination but also contributes to the growing trend of flexible, location-independent work.

What is the New Zealand Nomad Visa?

The New Zealand Nomad Visa allows tourists to work remotely for overseas employers while they enjoy their stay in the country. This visa is an inclusive solution for people who want to combine work and travel, without breaching visa conditions. Visitors, including tourists, long-term family visitors, and those with NZeTA, can now legally work remotely for foreign employers while enjoying the country.

It’s important to note that this visa does not allow holders to work for New Zealand employers or engage in activities that require physical presence in New Zealand.

• You can work for a foreign employer, but not a New Zealand-based one.

• The visa is available for both short and long stays depending on your situation.

• As long as you stay under 92 days in a 12-month period, New Zealand will not tax your income earned abroad.

• Visitors cannot engage in work that requires them to be physically present in New Zealand or offer services to New Zealand-based businesses.

Who is Eligible for the Nomad Visa?

The New Zealand Nomad Visa applies to individuals holding a visitor visa or NZeTA. However, there are conditions to be aware of:

• Tourists and visitors who want to work remotely for an overseas employer.

• Family and partners visiting for longer stays.

• Guardians on long-term visitor visas are also eligible under these updated rules.

Anyone intending to work for a New Zealand employer or engage in business activities within the country must apply for a different visa, such as the Business Visitor Visa or Specific Purpose Work Visa.

While the New Zealand Nomad Visa allows you to work remotely, you should be aware of any tax implications that may arise. The country follows an exemption approach to income tax for foreigners, which means that if you stay less than 92 days in New Zealand in a 12-month period, your income will not be taxed. However, this threshold can be extended to 183 days if your home country has a tax treaty with New Zealand.

Visitors who stay beyond these thresholds will face tax on income earned from services rendered during their stay in New Zealand, just like a resident worker.

Duration of Stay in New Zealand	Tax Implications
Less than 92 days	No New Zealand tax on foreign income
More than 92 days	Taxable at the same rate as residents

How to Apply for the New Zealand Nomad Visa

To apply for this visa, individuals must submit their application through the New Zealand Immigration website. Visitors should ensure they have a valid passport and meet health and character requirements.

Application Process

1. Check Eligibility: Make sure you meet the criteria outlined above.

2. Submit Visa Application: Apply online through the official immigration portal.

3. Wait for Approval: The process generally takes a few weeks.

4. Enjoy Your Stay: Once approved, you can begin working remotely from New Zealand!

Flexibility for Digital Nomads

The introduction of this visa comes as part of New Zealand’s effort to tap into the gig economy, a rapidly growing sector. The country’s flexible work opportunities make it an ideal destination for digital nomads who seek a change of scenery while maintaining their professional responsibilities. This visa encourages people to balance work and leisure seamlessly while exploring all that New Zealand has to offer.

Flexibility to Explore and Work

• Digital nomads can extend their stay in New Zealand, contributing to the local economy by spending on accommodation, food, and travel.

• New Zealand is positioning itself as a hub for remote workers, offering a lifestyle that blends work and leisure.

Government Support and Intentions

The introduction of this visa is part of a broader government initiative to stimulate economic growth and tap into new markets. Government officials, including Nicola Willis, Erica Stanford, and Louise Upston, have highlighted that encouraging remote workers to visit New Zealand could lead to increased spending, benefiting local businesses.

Tourism is one of New Zealand's largest industries, generating significant revenue and creating thousands of jobs. By targeting digital nomads, the country aims to not only attract tourists but also stimulate growth during the shoulder seasons, when tourism tends to dip.