New Zealand eases visa rules to lure ‘digital nomads’

New Zealand has eased visa requirements to allow tourists to work remotely during their visit to the country in a bid to boost the tourism sector.

Under the new rules, visitors can now work remotely for a foreign employer while on holiday in the country for up to 90 days, after which they may face potential tax implications.

The country’s government said the move aims to make New Zealand “more attractive to digital nomads,” referring to people who travel while working remotely.

“This change will enable many visitors to extend their stay, which will result in more money being spent in the country,” New Zealand Immigration Minister Erica Stanford said.

The government said the changes apply to all visitor visas, including tourists, people visiting their families, partners and guardians on long-term visas.

She added that only remote work abroad is allowed, while visitors whose work requires their presence in the country must still obtain appropriate visas.

New Zealand’s tourism industry generates revenues of about $11 billion, according to the government.

Several other countries have introduced visa programs for digital nomads over the past few years in an attempt to attract a growing number of people looking for opportunities to travel while working remotely.

This trend started in 2010, Mostly among young workers Who were looking to escape from their daily routine. It was reinforced by the Covid-19 pandemic, when lockdowns around the world led to a shift in attitudes towards remote working.

Countries offering digital nomad visas include Japan, South Korea, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Brazil, Spain and Portugal.

But the presence of digital nomads in some places has also sparked controversy. in Cape Town, South AfricaCritics say the influx of remote workers has increased costs.

The influx of visitors to countries such as Spain and Greece has also fueled heated protests against overtourism.