New Zealand has officially announced digital nomad visa, allowing them to work remotely for overseas businesses while touring the country. Previously, travelers were not allowed to work while on a tourist visa, but this is no longer the case. Unlike many other countries that provide digital nomad visas, New Zealand has no minimum income requirement, making it a better choice for remote workers.
This new approach is a game changer for freelancers, remote employees, and content creators who wish to explore New Zealand’s stunning landscapes without having to worry about visa requirements. Travelers from countries such as the United States can stay for up to six months on a normal visitor visa, which also allows them to work remotely without violating immigration rules.
How Digital Nomad Visa works
Visitors can first apply for a 90-day stay and then extend it up to nine months. If you are a US traveler who previously qualified as a standard visitor, this process will remain roughly the same—except now, you have the option to specify remote work as part of the application.
This step is part of New Zealand’s broad efforts to attract global talent, promote long-term tourism, and support a growing community of remote workers who want to harmonize productivity with adventure. Whether you want to work at a cafe on the beach or in a cozy mountain retreat, New Zealand is now an even more attractive destination for digital nomads.
New Zealand’s digital Nomad visa offers flexibility for long-term workers, but important limitations must be taken into consideration. The owner of this visa cannot provide or participate in new country employers for New Zealand employers, or participate in jobs requiring physical presence in New Zealand workplaces.
As for taxes, as long as you already pay taxes in other countries, your income will remain free from New Zealand taxation and you will not be in a row within 12 months. However, travelers who extend their stay across this border may be subject to local tax laws.
For some nationalities, including Americans, tax contracts between your home country and New Zealand can prevent double taxation, but it is recommended that you contact a tax professional before planning your long-term.
New Zealand launches digital nomad visa to boost tourism and economy
In an effort to boost tourism and economic growth, New Zealand has implemented a digital nomad visa. Despite a steady growth in visitors, the country’s 2024 arrival numbers remained 17% lower than in 2019. With one of the fastest GDP decreases among rich nations last year, the government sees remote workers as a method to hire competent specialists without displacing locals.
Worldwide uses digital nomadic visas from over 65 countries to attract long-term visitors and drive the economy in line with the pandemic. New Zealand welcomes remote workers and hopes to pursue and strengthen the tourism sector.
Allows the perfect combination of nature and cultural importance for those planning an extended stay and exploring Taranaki Maunga, a recently granted legal personhood—offers.
The Taranaki Maunga stands at 2,518 meters (8,261 feet), and is the second highest peak on the North Island of New Zealand, with deep cultural and spiritual significance for the Indigenous Maori people they consider their ancestors. The mountain-covered Kahui Tupua and its surrounding countries are now officially recognized as corporations, and the surrounding countries are protected and administered with state-appointed representatives. Traditional land practices are revived, but public access to the mountains is still open.
Meanwhile, New Zealand’s new visa requirements for digital nomads took effect on January 27, 2025. The changes apply to tourists, visiting family members, and guardians with long-term visitor visas, allowing them to work remotely while still in the country.
