New Zealand is making it easier for travelers to work while they explore the country. Starting on January 27, 2025, the country will introduce new visa rules that allow tourists to work remotely during their stay, aiming to boost both tourism and the economy.
A New Opportunity for Travelers
Immigration Minister Erica Stanford announced the change, explaining that this new type of visitor visa targets a fresh group of travelers: digital nomads. These are people who can work from anywhere in the world, as long as they have an internet connection. Stanford said New Zealand is excited to welcome this group and hopes the country becomes a top choice for those looking to travel and work at the same time.
“This is a brand-new market of tourists that New Zealand can tap into. We want people to see our country as the ideal place to visit and work while they do it,” she said in a statement.
Attracting More Long-Term Visitors
Although Minister Stanford wasn’t sure how many people would take advantage of this new opportunity, she pointed out that digital nomad visas have become very popular in other countries. She expects that visitors who choose New Zealand for their working holiday will likely stay longer and spend more money, helping the economy.
Stanford also shared her hope that these visitors will fall in love with New Zealand and want to return in the future.
Boosting the Economy After a Slow Recovery
New Zealand’s economy entered a technical recession in the third quarter of 2024, and the government is actively seeking ways to encourage growth. One of the strategies is to boost tourism, which still hasn’t fully recovered since the COVID-19 pandemic forced the country’s borders to close. Currently, international visitors are at about 86% of pre-pandemic levels.
A Vision for Growth
Nicola Willis, the Minister of Economic Growth, shared her optimism about the new visa rules. She hopes the changes will help put New Zealand on the map as a welcoming destination for talented workers from around the world.
“We hope that in some cases, it will encourage those people and the companies they work for to consider doing more business with New Zealand in the future,” Willis said.
A Bright Future Ahead
With these new visa rules, New Zealand is hoping to attract more international workers who can help boost the economy, bring new ideas, and make the country a global hub for digital nomads. Whether you’re looking for adventure, a new work environment, or both, New Zealand is ready to welcome you with open arms.
