New Zealand Digital Nomad Visa: Your Guide to Working Remotely in Paradise

Yes, you can work remotely from New Zealand, but it's important to note that New Zealand does not offer a dedicated “Digital Nomad Visa.” Instead, as of January 27, 2025, remote work is permitted under the existing Visitor Visa and NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) programs. This policy shift allows tourists, family visitors, and others on visitor visas to engage in remote work for foreign employers or clients during their stay. However, working for New Zealand-based employers or providing goods or services to local clients is strictly prohibited. Additionally, the remote work must remain incidental to the main purpose of the visit, which should be tourism or visiting family.

New Zealand’s approach aligns with a global trend, where countries across Asia, Europe, and beyond are embracing remote work visas. Though not a formal digital nomad visa, this flexible arrangement makes New Zealand a compelling destination, especially when compared to Australia, due to fewer pests and a more laid-back lifestyle. Countries like the UK and South Korea are among those whose citizens are eligible to apply. With this new policy, New Zealand positions itself as a competitive option alongside popular digital nomad destinations like Greece, Spain, and Japan. This guide explains who qualifies, how to apply, and what to expect when living as a digital nomad in New Zealand.

The New Zealand Digital Nomad Visa allows remote workers to live and work from New Zealand for up to 90 days, provided their income comes from outside the country. Applicants must prove foreign employment, have a clean criminal record, health insurance, and sufficient funds. While local work is prohibited, remote work for overseas employers is allowed. Stays under 92 days typically avoid local taxes if income is taxed abroad. Applications are processed online and take 2–6 weeks. This visa supports tourism and offers digital nomads a balanced lifestyle in one of the world’s most scenic countries.

A digital nomad visa allows remote workers to live temporarily in a foreign country while continuing to work for clients or employers based outside that country. New Zealand’s digital nomad visa is particularly enticing, designed to attract more tourism by permitting remote work for overseas employers. This initiative supports the country’s goal to boost its tourism sector while offering a unique lifestyle for digital nomads.

Eligibility for a digital nomad visa generally requires proof of remote employment, such as freelance contracts, employment agreements with an overseas employer, or evidence of self-employment. Freelancers, employees, and business owners working remotely for clients or companies outside New Zealand qualify for this visa. However, visa holders are prohibited from engaging in local economic activities, ensuring the focus remains on remote work. Specifically, visa holders cannot be physically present in a New Zealand workplace or provide goods or services to local businesses.

Digital nomad visa holders in New Zealand enjoy the best of both worlds: working remotely while holidaying, exploring new places, and experiencing local culture. This visa offers the flexibility to maintain professional commitments while savoring New Zealand’s scenic beauty and vibrant lifestyle. Additionally, the visa supports remote working for foreign employers, aligning with global trends.

Securing a digital nomad visa for New Zealand involves several requirements:

1. Applicants must be employed by a foreign employer or self-employed, with a new zealand employer.

2. Income must be sourced from outside New Zealand, aligning with the visa’s goal of boosting tourism without affecting local job markets.

3. A clean criminal record is necessary, highlighting the importance of security and integrity.

Health insurance coverage is essential to ensure access to healthcare services during the stay. Applicants must also provide a valid passport, proof of employment, and evidence of adequate funds to support themselves, ensuring self-sustainability without relying on local resources.

Application fees for the digital nomad visa range from NZD $200 to $500, depending on nationality. This fee is a modest investment for the chance to live and work in one of the world’s most beautiful countries. However, the standard Visitor Visa fee is approximately NZD $211, and the NZeTA costs NZD $17–$23, plus an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZD $35.

Some digital nomad visas may allow the inclusion of family members and partners, which means enabling nomads to bring their loved ones along on this adventure in the future in Portugal, Brazil. The visa changes also benefit people visiting family, allowing them to work remotely while in New Zealand.

Applying for New Zealand’s digital nomad visa is straightforward. Applicants can choose between a six-month multiple-entry visa or a single-entry visa that allows a stay of up to nine months. The application is submitted online through the official New Zealand Immigration website, streamlining the process and allowing real-time tracking of application status.

The approval process takes between two to six weeks, with an average of around three and a half weeks. This quick turnaround allows digital nomads to plan their move without prolonged uncertainty. Adhering to the guidelines and providing all necessary documentation ensures a smooth application process.

Once approved, the digital nomad visa allows you to live in New Zealand for up to 90 days. During this period, you can explore urban centers and rural landscapes. Popular cities for digital nomads include Wellington, Auckland, Queenstown, and Christchurch, each offering unique amenities, culture, and natural beauty.

Internet connectivity is a key consideration for digital nomads. Urban centers like Auckland and Wellington offer reliable high-speed internet, up to 400 Mbps, facilitating productivity and connectivity with clients and employers. However, rural areas may have slower speeds, so checking connectivity options before traveling is advisable. Digital nomads need to be aware of the tax implications related to their digital nomad income.

New Zealand is known for its excellent work-life balance. The country offers various coworking spaces that foster a community atmosphere and ample networking opportunities for a zealand employer. Professional meetups and events are common, allowing digital nomads to expand their networks while enjoying local culture. Additionally, a wealth of outdoor activities, from hiking and skiing to surfing and kayaking, ensures there’s always something exciting to do during downtime in this world. The success of these initiatives often depends on how much zealand depends on the contributions of its diverse workforce. Digital nomads do not compete for local jobs, which is a key aspect of the visa's appeal.

Living in New Zealand as a digital nomad offers a unique blend of work and leisure. The natural beauty, modern amenities, and welcoming communities make it an ideal destination for balancing remote work with an enriching lifestyle.

Understanding the tax implications of living in New Zealand as a digital nomad is crucial to avoid unexpected liabilities. While New Zealand does not offer a dedicated digital nomad visa, remote workers on a Visitor Visa or NZeTA may still face local tax obligations depending on their length of stay and tax residency status.

If you stay in New Zealand for fewer than 92 days within a 12-month period, your foreign income is generally exempt from New Zealand income tax, provided it is taxed in your home country. This exemption may apply under double taxation agreements (DTAs) between New Zealand and your country of tax residence.

For stays between 92 and 183 days, you might still avoid local taxation if a tax treaty exists and you continue to be treated as a tax resident in your home country. However, once you exceed 183 days in a 12-month period, you become a New Zealand tax resident and are liable to pay income tax on your worldwide income.

New Zealand’s personal income tax rates are:

• 10.5% on income up to NZD $14,000

• 17.5% on income from NZD $14,001 to $48,000

• 30% on income from NZD $48,001 to $70,000

• 33% on income from NZD $70,001 to $180,000

• 39% on income over NZD $180,000

If you’re subject to New Zealand taxes, you’ll need to register for an IRD number (Inland Revenue Department) and may need to file an annual income tax return.

Due to the complexity of tax laws and treaties, digital nomads are strongly advised to consult with a tax professional to navigate their specific situation. Services like Nomads Embassy offer tailored tax consultations to help nomads understand their obligations, especially when managing dual taxation risks or seeking tax-efficient residency options abroad.

Ultimately, the tax treatment of income earned by digital nomads in New Zealand varies based on your individual circumstances, including your length of stay, tax residency status, and your home country’s treaty arrangements.

To extend your stay in New Zealand beyond the initial 90 days, you can apply for a temporary visa extension. The new rules for visitor visas now permit holders to work remotely for foreign employers while visiting. Eligibility requires holding a valid visa that is not limited, interim, or a transit visa, ensuring lawful presence in New Zealand while your extension application is processed.

In certain circumstances, you may request a special temporary or resident visa under Section 61 of the Immigration Act 2009. This option, granted under specific conditions, requires a written request outlining personal information and reasons for your extended stay, taking into account a person’s individual circumstances. Providing a compelling explanation can increase your chances of approval, though it is not guaranteed.

Extending your stay allows further exploration of New Zealand, deepening professional connections, and continuing to enjoy the unique lifestyle while visiting. However, planning for new conditions and ensuring all visa rules and requirements are meticulously followed is essential to avoid legal complications that may limit your options.

The introduction of digital nomad visas is part of a broader strategy by the New Zealand government to create a more attractive immigration system. This initiative aims to support economic growth by attracting visitors who can contribute financially to the local economy. Digital nomads, with their ability to live and work remotely, represent a valuable demographic that can boost tourism and local spending, especially with the zealand electronic travel authority facilitating their entry. The new visa rules are designed to encourage economic growth by attracting skilled professionals.

Digital nomads tend to spend more time and money in New Zealand compared to traditional tourists, positively influencing the economy. Their presence stimulates economic activities, from renting accommodations and utilizing coworking spaces to dining out and participating in local events. This influx helps promote New Zealand as a prime destination for remote work, further encouraging economic growth and contributing to the digital nomad’s income. Additionally, businesses benefit from this increased activity. The tourism sector has faced significant challenges in recent years, making these new visa rules particularly important.

Overall, the digital nomad visa initiative is expected to significantly benefit New Zealand’s economy. By fostering a welcoming environment for remote workers, the country can attract visitors who contribute to the local economy while enjoying New Zealand’s natural beauty and vibrant culture.

Navigating the visa application process in the USA can be challenging, but Nomads Embassy offers professional support for a streamlined process and efficient application experience. This includes a dedicated immigration lawyer who assists in verifying eligibility and completing your visa application.

Recent news highlights the impact of New Zealand's policy changes on attracting digital nomads through relaxed visa rules, which is a growing trend post-pandemic.

Nomads Embassy offers a one-hour consultation with an immigration lawyer to review documents and address any questions for the client. Their services aim to save time and reduce the stress of visa applications. With secure document management and streamlined communication with immigration authorities, Nomads Embassy helps minimize errors and expedite the application process.

In conclusion, New Zealand’s digital nomad visa offers remote workers the opportunity to live and work in a stunning environment while contributing to the local economy. By meeting the visa requirements, following the application process, and understanding the tax implications, digital nomads can enjoy a seamless experience in New Zealand.

The new visa rules encourage digital nomads to visit New Zealand and contribute to the local economy, making it an attractive destination for remote work and tourism.

With the support of the Nomads Embassy, navigating the visa application process becomes simpler and less stressful. Embrace the adventure of working remotely in paradise and discover why New Zealand is the ideal destination for digital nomads.

While New Zealand offers stunning landscapes and remote work options under its visitor visa rules, the Malta Digital Nomad Visa is a popular alternative for those craving a sunnier climate and European lifestyle. With over 300 days of sunshine, crystal-clear warm waters, and a thriving expat scene, Malta appeals to remote workers seeking both productivity and relaxation. It's also home to Evolve Coliving, a vibrant community hub built specifically for digital nomads, offering ready-made connections, events, and coworking spaces, ideal for those who value community and work-life balance. Curious, you can also check out the 'Living In Malta Guide' for more info!

And if you want to see a full list of 70+ countries that provide digital nomad visas, please check out 'The Ultimate Guide to Digital Nomad Visas Worldwide 2025' 

To conclude, here is the full list of countries, where you can get a Digital Nomad Visa in 2025:

*Digital Nomad Visa introduced but not yet implemented