Starting today, January 27, New Zealand has announced a change in its visa policies, allowing visitors to work remotely while staying in the country. This decision aims to support the country’s economy by attracting digital nomads and remote workers.
New Visa Rules to Boost New Zealand’s Economy
The new visa facilitation will allow holidaymakers to work remotely for companies based outside New Zealand without violating visa conditions. The country hopes this initiative will make it an attractive destination for workers looking to travel while maintaining their jobs.
In a statement, New Zealand’s Immigration Minister, Erica Stanford, highlighted that the government wants people to view the country not just as a tourist destination, but as an ideal place for working remotely as well. She expressed uncertainty about the number of people who would take advantage of this opportunity but noted the rising popularity of digital nomad visas worldwide.
“I expect that they will spend longer than they normally would, and they will spend more because they’re here for longer. We’re really hoping that they fall in love with the place,” Stanford said.
Government Aims to Position New Zealand as a Global Talent Hub
Nicola Willis, New Zealand’s Minister of Economic Growth, explained that the country’s new visa rules are part of an ambitious strategy to position New Zealand as a welcoming hub for global talent. She added that the government hopes the policy would encourage more business opportunities between New Zealand and international companies.
“We hope that in some cases, it will encourage those people and the firms they represent to consider doing more business with New Zealand in the future,” Willis said.
Eligibility and Conditions for Working Remotely in New Zealand
The new visa rules apply to a variety of visitors, including tourists, people visiting family and partners, and guardians on longer-term visitor visas. These visitors will now be eligible to stay in New Zealand and work remotely for companies or clients located outside the country.
However, there are specific conditions attached to the visa. Visitors must:
Not work for an employer within New Zealand.
Not provide goods or services to New Zealand-based businesses or individuals.
Not engage in any work requiring them to be physically present at a workplace within New Zealand.
Additionally, the government has emphasized that visitors intending to work remotely in New Zealand for more than 92 days in a 12-month period must be aware of the tax implications of doing so.
This updated visa policy is expected to not only attract remote workers but also foster economic growth through extended stays and increased spending by foreign visitors.
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