No taxes: New Zealand digital nomad visa, what you need to know

Pack your laptops and grab your passports, because New Zealand is rolling out the welcome mat for digital nomads. 

Starting January 27, 2025, the land of stunning landscapes, Hobbiton Movie Set and friendly Kiwis is launching its brand-new “Visitor Visa for Remote Workers”. 

Local media reported that with the introduction of looser visa rules, holiday makers could work remotely while visiting the country, boosting tourism and economy.

So whether you’re clocking in for a company halfway across the globe or running your own gig with clients from every corner of the planet, you can now live and work in New Zealand for up to 90 days. 

No minimum income requirements

And here’s the cherry on top: no pesky minimum income requirements.

And no income tax, too, according to CN Traveler.

This is part of the government’s drive to boost tourism by allowing digital nomads and influencers to stay for up to 90 days on visitor visas without paying tax. 

Application process

Applications can be submitted online through the official New Zealand immigration website. 

The standard application fee is NZD$341 ($193.03), and applicants may also need to pay an additional NZD$100 ($56.36) for the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy, as per the travel site.

Tax implications

Visitors can work remotely for overseas employers or clients without incurring local taxes for stays up to 90 days. 

However, if you plan to stay longer, up to nine months, be aware that tax obligations may apply beyond the initial 90-day period, according to The Guardian.

Government drive

Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis emphasised that this initiative aims to position New Zealand as an attractive destination for highly skilled workers, particularly from the US and East Asia. 

The government hopes that by allowing digital nomads to work remotely from New Zealand, they will contribute to the local economy through their spending. 

New Zealand's new visa option offers an exciting opportunity for digital nomads seeking a change of scenery. 

With its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, New Zealand is positioning itself as a prime destination for remote workers.

So, if you’ve ever dreamed of coding from a cozy café in Queenstown or taking Zoom calls with a view of Hobbiton, this is your chance to make it happen.