New Zealand has drastically relaxed its visa requirements in a bid to lure digital nomads to the country as it attempts to revitalise its tourism sector.   

Under the new rules, visitors can carry out remote work for up to 90 days without breaching visa conditions. 

However, those staying longer could face potential tax implications. 

The policy is designed to attract ‘digital nomads’ – individuals who combine work and travel, according to Immigration Minister Erica Stanford.

‘The change will enable many visitors to extend their stays, which will lead to more money being spent in the country,’ Stanford said, highlighting the economic benefits of the move.

The relaxed rules apply to all visitor visas, including those for tourists and individuals visiting family, partners, or guardians on longer-term visas. 

However, only remote work for overseas employers is permitted. 

Visitors whose jobs require them to physically work in New Zealand must still apply for the appropriate work visa.

Under new visa rules in New Zealand visitors can carry out remote work for up to 90 days without breaching visa conditions

The policy is designed to attract ‘digital nomads’ – individuals who combine work and travel. Pictured: Lake Pukaki on sunny day at Peters lookout, New Zealand

By encouraging remote workers to spend longer periods in the country, officials believe the influx of visitors will provide a significant boost to local businesses and communities. Pictured: Auckland downtown skyline at waterfront in Auckland, New Zealand

The government hopes the changes will bolster a tourism industry that generates nearly £5.6billion annually. 

By encouraging remote workers to spend longer periods in the country, officials believe the influx of visitors will provide a significant boost to local businesses and communities.

‘The change is part of the government’s plan to unlock New Zealand’s potential by shifting the country onto a faster growth track,’ economic growth minister Nicola Willis said in a press release. 

‘Tourism is New Zealand’s second-largest export earner generating revenue of almost NZD 11 billion and creating nearly 200,000 jobs.’

Willis added, ‘Making the country more attractive to ‘digital nomads’ – people who work remotely while travelling – will boost New Zealand’s attractiveness as a destination.’

‘Many countries offer digital nomad visas and the list is growing, so we need to keep pace to ensure New Zealand is an attractive destination for people who want to ‘workcation’ abroad,’ tourism minister Louise Upston said. 

‘Compared to other kinds of visitors, international remote workers have the potential to spend more time and money in New Zealand, including during the shoulder season (a travel period between peak and off-peak seasons).’ 

New Zealand joins a growing list of countries adapting to the rise of remote work.

Destinations like Japan, South Korea, Brazil, Spain, and Portugal have introduced specific ‘digital nomad visas’ in recent years, capitalising on the popularity of combining work with travel.

The trend, which gained momentum in the 2010s, surged during the Covid-19 pandemic, as lockdowns and evolving attitudes toward remote work spurred professionals to seek more flexible lifestyles.

While digital nomads are often praised for injecting money into local economies, their presence has sparked controversy in some destinations. 

Critics in cities like Cape Town, South Africa, argue that remote workers drive up living costs for locals, exacerbating inequalities.

In Europe, the influx of long-term visitors to popular spots like Spain and Greece has intensified debates around overtourism, with residents protesting the strain on resources and infrastructure.

Despite these concerns, New Zealand’s government sees its new policy as a win for tourism, offering remote workers a chance to enjoy the country’s stunning landscapes and unique culture while contributing to the economy.