New Zealand relaxes visa rules, allowing tourists to work remotely

Foreign visitors to New Zealand will now be able to work remotely while in the country, the government announced on Monday, January 27.

Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis said the change, which takes effect immediately, is part of a plan to boost the economy.

“Making the country more attractive to digital nomads—people who work remotely while traveling—will boost New Zealand’s attractiveness as a destination,” Willis explained.

“Tourism was New Zealand’s second-largest export earner, generating revenue of almost 11 billion U.S. dollars and creating nearly 200,000 jobs.”

However, data from Statistics New Zealand showed the sector has not yet completely bounced back from the COVID-19 pandemic border closures, with international visitors at about 86 percent of 2019 levels.

Immigration Minister Erica Stanford said the visa change reflects the realities of the modern, flexible working environment.

“This is a brand-new market of tourists that New Zealand can tap into. We want people to see our country as the ideal place to visit and work while they do it.”

Stanford added that those wanting to work remotely for more than 90 days should consider possible tax implications.

“The change will enable many visitors to extend their stays, which will lead to more money being spent in the country,” she concluded