New Zealand has recently relaxed its visitor visa rules to attract digital nomads – people who work remotely while traveling. The updated policy allows individuals to work remotely for a foreign employer during their visit, which can last up to 90 days and be extended to nine months. However, those working beyond the initial period may need to pay taxes.
Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis emphasized that this change aims to boost tourism and the economy by making New Zealand more appealing as a destination for remote workers. The policy will also apply to influencers, provided they are being paid by overseas companies.
Willis stated, “We want people from around the world to feel motivated to visit New Zealand and invest in our country.” Highly skilled IT workers from the U.S. and East Asia are targeted in a promotional campaign to attract these individuals.
While digital nomads won’t compete with local residents for jobs here, Willis noted that some may try to circumvent the rules. She assured travelers by saying, “We’re not checking how many emails they send or days they work; we just want them to be here and spend their money.”
The announcement comes amid a challenging economy for New Zealand, which has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. The country reported one of the largest GDP contractions in developed nations during 2023 due to high interest rates and unemployment. Tourism also suffered, with the sector contributing significantly to the economy before the pandemic.
Despite welcoming digital nomads, the government faces criticism from locals in Spain, Portugal, and South Africa for concerns about housing shortages and overcrowding caused by an influx of visitors. Opposition Finance spokesperson Barbara Edmonds criticized Willis’ policy, arguing that it doesn’t provide clear economic growth projections and accused her of creating a “double standard” compared to public servants working remotely.
Edmonds stated, “With one hand she’s begging foreigners to come here to work from home, while implementing strict policies on … public servants to stop them from doing the same.” She called for long-term solutions rather than short-term economic boosts.
In summary, while digital nomads are a positive draw for New Zealand, critics warn that the policy could lead to unintended consequences and local strain. The government’s approach remains controversial, with mixed reactions from stakeholders.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jan/28/new-zealand-relaxes-visa-rules-to-lure-digital-nomads-and-influencers