New Zealand relaxes Visa rules for digital nomads: here’s how you can apply

Is New Zealand on your digital nomad bucket list? You’re in luck.

Known for its natural beauty, manuka honey, and as “middle earth” to Lord Of The Rings fans, New Zealand has recently relaxed its rules around visas to attract more tourism and remote workers.

While an official digital nomad visa is still in the works, it’s now easier than ever for travellers to obtain an entry visa. 

Here’s everything you need to know about New Zealand’s latest visa regulations, and how to apply to live in the country as a digital nomad.

New Zealand’s new visa rules

Under the new rules, digital nomads can now obtain a tourist visa and reside in New Zealand for up to 90 days. This can be extended up to nine months, but a resident’s tax may then apply. 

The government also stated last month that only remote work for an overseas employer will be permitted. For those visitors whose work requires them to be in the country, they will still need to get the appropriate visas.

Eric Standford, Immigration Minister for New Zealand, commented: “The change will enable many visitors to extend their stays, which will lead to more money being spent in the country.

“We welcome visitors of all types to New Zealand and in this particular announcement, those who are able to work as digital nomads here on our shores.”

New Zealand’s economy tries to recover post-pandemic

Much like the rest of the world, New Zealand’s economy took a hit in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Before, the country’s tourism was its largest export industry, contributing NZD$40 billion (roughly £18 billion) to the economy.

The pandemic’s effects eventually pushed New Zealand into recession in September 2020 – the international travel ban severely impacted its retail, hospitality, accommodation and transportation sectors the most.

Fortunately, the country seems to be getting back on its feet. With lockdown restrictions lifted, the increase in visitors over 2024 saw New Zealand’s tourism market recover to 85% of pre-pandemic levels, equating to 3.3 million arrivals.

Now, in good news for remote workers and UK freelancers, the country is pushing for tourism growth by embracing digital nomads with open arms.

“We simply won’t get rich selling to ourselves,” economic growth minister Nicola Wills said. “We want more wealth and super-talented people coming in the arrival gates. We’re not going to be checking out how many emails they’re sending and how many days they’re spending working. We just want them to be here and spending their hard-earned money.”

How to apply to be a digital nomad

If you’re looking to become a digital nomad in New Zealand, or you’re already a working globetrotter, you can easily apply for an entry visa online. However, to be eligible, you must meet the following requirements:

• A valid passport
• Employment with a company based outside New Zealand
• Reason for visiting
• Proof of income, which is a minimum of NZ$1,000 per month
• Proof of onward travel (you must leave at the end of your stay)
• Certificate of good health
• A chest X-ray (if you plan to stay longer than six months)
• Criminal background check
• Proof of international health insurance

You must also pay a NZD$341 (approximately £195.26) application fee.

If you meet all the requirements, you can apply for a visitor visa through the official online portal. To begin your application process, you will need to register for a RealMe account. Processing time usually takes around four weeks to complete.