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

If we look at the data from the last 10 years, visitor visa applications have fluctuated near the 0.6 – 0.7 million mark.

Table 1: Visitor Visa Application FY 14/15 – 24/25

FY (Jul-Jun)

Approved

Declined

Total

2014/15

484306

24532

508838

2015/16

599561

27516

627077

2016/17

641924

36620

678544

2017/18

735013

43790

778803

2018/19

737740

54842

792582

2019/20

466149

40241

506390

2020/21

61662

5409

67071

2021/22

63166

4225

67391

2022/23

396441

44689

441130

2023/24

639674

99527

739201

2024/25(Till Mar)

321323

42457

363780

source: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/

New Zealand Immigration has significantly updated the visitor visa to boost tourism. This is a path-breaking update on promoting remote work opportunities for Tourists in NZ. This means that individuals working online for companies or freelancers who work from home are being encouraged to apply.

As part of this, many people can apply for a Visitor visa without pausing their job

What You Can Do

✔ Work remotely for an overseas employer
✔ Stay in New Zealand while earning an income
✔ Travel and experience the country with no work visa required

Important Restrictions

✘ No work for New Zealand employers or businesses
✘ No physical presence in a New Zealand workplace
💡 Tax exemptions apply for up to 92 or 183 days, depending on your country’s tax treaty

Additionally, the government has announced that individuals can run their online businesses while staying in New Zealand. Previously, it did not matter where you worked from as long as the money came into your account. Now, New Zealand has officially permitted people to work remotely while staying in the country. You can work with your clients or company while being in New Zealand.

New Zealand offers an ideal environment, modern facilities, and a scientifically advanced setting, making it a great place for remote workers. They have also emphasized work-life balance, allowing individuals to enjoy the country’s natural beauty and safe lifestyle while working.

Regarding eligibility requirements, the applicant must:

  • Have a valid New Zealand visa.
  • Provide proof of remote work while staying in New Zealand.
  • Show proof of employment or contract agreements.
  • Show sufficient funds for living expenses in New Zealand.

Another significant change is the option to extend the stay beyond 90 days. Previously, staying for more than 90 days was laborious. Now, if you stay up to 90 days, you don’t need to pay tax on your job earnings. However, if you wish to stay longer—three months, six months, or even a year—you can do so by paying taxes on your income in New Zealand. This allows visa holders to extend their stay and enjoy a longer experience in the country.

For those working online, earning well, or having strong rental or extra income sources, the tax liability will be applicable if they extend their stay for a year. If you like the lifestyle in New Zealand and want to stay longer, you can extend your visa by showing your plan for exploring the country.

Anyone interested in applying can contact the ICL Licensed Immigration Advisors; we will help them complete their Visa Journey.

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Erik Murthy

Abhay Kumar

Abhay is the Head of Digital Marketing at ICL, bringing a wealth of experience and a data-driven approach to strategy. He holds a master’s degree in Management and has a deep understanding of New Zealand’s immigration process. His passion for content writing and reading enhances his ability to connect meaningfully with our audience.

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