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New Zealand

Oceania

New Zealand offers stunning natural landscapes, high quality of life, and excellent infrastructure for remote workers. While there is no dedicated Digital Nomad Visa, from January 27, 2025, all visitor visas allow unlimited remote work for overseas employers or clients. Citizens from 60+ visa-waiver countries can apply for an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) and stay up to 90 days (6 months for UK citizens). The Working Holiday Visa is popular among young travelers (18-30/35) from 41+ countries.

8
Visa Types
185
Nationalities visa-free
🪪Your Passport:

Visa requirements vary by nationality

🎫 Available Visa Types

⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Tourist

NZeTA Visa Waiver

Citizens from 60+ visa-waiver countries can apply for an NZeTA before travel and receive a Visitor Visa on arrival. From January 2025, remote work for overseas employers is permitted.

90 days
Duration
NZD 140
— fee
+NZD 150 additional

✅ Key Benefits

✓Remote work for overseas employers permitted (from Jan 2025)
✓Quick online application
✓Multiple entries allowed
✓Valid for 2 years
✓No visa interview required
✓Can study for up to 3 months
📋 Requirements (7)
  • •Passport from visa-waiver country valid 3+ months beyond departure
  • •NZeTA approved before travel
  • •Return or onward ticket
  • •Proof of sufficient funds
  • •Good health declaration
  • •Good character (no serious criminal history)
  • •Travel insurance (recommended)
📝 Application Process
✓ Online Application⏱ Usually within 72 hours, most processed faster
  1. 1Download NZeTA app or visit immigration.govt.nz
  2. 2Create account and complete NZeTA application
  3. 3Upload passport photo
  4. 4Pay NZeTA fee and IVL levy
  5. 5Wait for approval (usually within 72 hours)
  6. 6Complete New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) before travel
  7. 7Present passport at border - visa granted on arrival
Apply Online

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Apply via mobile app for lower fee (NZD $17 vs $23)
  • •Apply at least 72 hours before travel
  • •Complete NZTD form before arriving
  • •Have proof of accommodation and return ticket ready
  • •UK citizens get 6 months instead of 90 days
⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Special Program

Working Holiday Visa

For young adults (18-30/35) from 41+ partner countries to work, travel, and study in New Zealand for 12-36 months depending on nationality.

365 days
Duration
NZD 455
— fee
+NZD 500 additional

💰 Income Requirement

Minimum $4,200/per_year

Alternative: NZD $4,200 minimum funds to support initial stay. Can also show return ticket plus lower funds amount.

✅ Key Benefits

✓Work any job without employer sponsorship
✓Travel freely throughout NZ
✓Study for up to 6 months
✓Extended stay for UK (36 months) and Canada (23 months)
✓Can extend with seasonal work
✓Great for experiencing NZ lifestyle
📋 Requirements (8)
  • •Passport from eligible country (41+ countries)
  • •Age 18-30 (35 for Argentina, Canada, Chile, Czech, Finland, Hungary, Slovakia, Uruguay, UK)
  • •Proof of funds (NZD $4,200 minimum)
  • •Return ticket or funds to purchase one
  • •Comprehensive medical insurance
  • •Good health and character
  • •Not previously held NZ Working Holiday Visa
  • •No dependent children accompanying
📝 Application Process
✓ Online Application⏱ 16 to 52 working days
  1. 1Check if your country has working holiday agreement with NZ
  2. 2Check quota availability (some countries have annual limits)
  3. 3Create Immigration NZ online account
  4. 4Complete Working Holiday Visa application
  5. 5Upload required documents
  6. 6Pay visa fee
  7. 7Provide medical/police certificates if required
  8. 8Wait for processing (16-52 days)
  9. 9Enter NZ within 12 months of approval
Apply Online
🔄 Extension & Renewal

Extension: 90 days (max 1x)

Cost: Free

Process: Can extend 3 months after completing 3 months seasonal work. UK citizens can stay up to 36 months total, Canadians up to 23 months.

Renewal: One-time visa only - cannot reapply. UK citizens can stay 36 months, Canadians 23 months, others typically 12 months.

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Apply as soon as your country quota opens - popular countries fill quickly
  • •UK and Canada citizens get extended stays (36 and 23 months)
  • •Complete 3 months seasonal work to extend by 3 months
  • •Get IRD number immediately upon arrival to work legally
  • •Consider fruit picking, hospitality, ski resorts for easy work
⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Work

Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

New Zealand's primary work visa for skilled workers with a job offer from an accredited employer. Valid for up to 5 years with pathway to residence.

1825 days
Duration
NZD 1,540
— fee
+NZD 1,250 additional

💰 Income Requirement

Minimum $48,880/per_year

Alternative: Must meet market rate for the role. Minimum wage NZD $23.50/hr from April 2025. Higher wages ($50.34/hr) unlock 5-year visa for lower-skilled roles. $67.12/hr exempts from labor market test.

✅ Key Benefits

✓Work legally for NZ employer
✓Up to 5 years stay (3 years for lower-skilled)
✓Pathway to permanent residence
✓Can sponsor partner/children at $55,844+ income
✓Interim work rights while application processes
✓Can change employers with new Job Check
📋 Requirements (7)
  • •Job offer from accredited NZ employer with approved Job Check
  • •Meet minimum skill requirements (2 years experience or qualification)
  • •Salary meets market rate (minimum NZD $23.50/hr)
  • •Good health and character
  • •English language ability (for ANZSCO Level 4-5 roles)
  • •Relevant qualifications or experience for the role
  • •Occupational registration if required for profession
📝 Application Process
✓ Online Application⏱ 5 to 7 weeks for most applications
  1. 1Employer obtains/maintains accreditation with Immigration NZ
  2. 2Employer submits Job Check for the position
  3. 3Receive Job Check approval and application token
  4. 4Complete AEWV application online
  5. 5Upload documents (qualifications, experience, ID)
  6. 6Provide medical/police certificates if required
  7. 7Pay visa fee
  8. 8Wait for processing (5-7 weeks typically)
  9. 9Receive eVisa and travel to NZ
Apply Online
🔄 Extension & Renewal

Extension: 1825 days (max x)

Cost: 1,540 NZD

Process: Can apply for new AEWV before current one expires. After maximum continuous stay (5 years for most, 3 years for ANZSCO 4-5), must leave NZ for 12 months before reapplying.

Renewal: Pathway to Skilled Migrant Category residence for qualifying roles. Green List occupations may qualify for Straight to Residence.

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Target Green List occupations for faster residence pathway
  • •Higher wages unlock better visa conditions
  • •$67.12/hr exempts from labor market test and skills assessment
  • •Check INZ website for latest wage thresholds
  • •Get qualifications assessed by NZQA before applying

Visitor Visa

TouristPopular

For travelers from countries not eligible for NZeTA visa waiver, or those wanting to stay longer than allowed under visa waiver. Allows remote work for overseas employers from January 2025.

270d
Duration
NZD 346
— fee
+NZD 350 additional
📍Apply: Online
⏱20 to 30 working days
🔄Extendable +90d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
NZDUSD
Required
Visitor visa application feeStandard application fee
NZD 246—
IVL levyInternational Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy
NZD 100—
Additional (estimated)
Medical examinationIf required based on health questions
NZD 300—
Police certificateIf required based on character questions
NZD 50—
Required Total
NZD 346—
+ Additional (estimated)
NZD 350—
Estimated Total
NZD 696—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Valid passport (3+ months beyond intended departure)
  • •Completed online application
  • •Proof of sufficient funds
  • •Return or onward ticket
  • •Proof of accommodation
  • •Good health declaration
  • •Good character (may require police certificate)
  • •Genuine intent to visit temporarily

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Create Immigration NZ online account
  2. 2Complete Visitor Visa application form
  3. 3Upload required documents
  4. 4Pay application fee online
  5. 5Provide biometrics if requested
  6. 6Wait for processing (20-30 working days)
  7. 7Receive eVisa electronically

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Cannot work for NZ employers
  • •Cannot provide services to NZ businesses
  • •Maximum 9 months in 18-month period
  • •Must leave NZ before visa expires
  • •Processing takes several weeks

💡 Tips

  • •Apply well in advance - processing takes 3-4 weeks
  • •Provide clear evidence of ties to home country
  • •Show genuine tourist/visitor purpose
  • •Have accommodation booked for at least initial period

Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa

WorkPopular

Points-based residence visa for skilled workers. Requires skilled employment or job offer in NZ. Leads to permanent residence after 2 years.

730d
Duration
NZD 5,320
— fee
+NZD 1,200 additional
📍Apply: Online
⏱EOI selection varies; full application 4-6 months
🔄No extension
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
NZDUSD
Required
Expression of Interest (EOI)Initial EOI submission fee
NZD 680—
Residence application feeIf EOI selected
NZD 4,640—
Additional (estimated)
IELTS testEnglish language proof if needed
NZD 400—
Qualification assessmentNZQA assessment
NZD 800—
Required Total
NZD 5,320—
+ Additional (estimated)
NZD 1,200—
Estimated Total
NZD 6,520—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Skilled employment or job offer in NZ
  • •Age under 55 years
  • •Good health and character
  • •English language (IELTS 6.5 overall)
  • •Qualification at Level 4+ or relevant experience
  • •Meet points threshold (currently 6 points)
  • •Meet income threshold for skilled employment

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Check eligibility and calculate points
  2. 2Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) online
  3. 3Wait for EOI selection from pool
  4. 4If selected, receive Invitation to Apply (ITA)
  5. 5Submit full residence application within 4 months
  6. 6Provide all supporting documents
  7. 7Attend interview if required
  8. 8Receive decision and travel to NZ

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Points-based - must meet threshold
  • •Competitive EOI selection process
  • •Age limit of 55 years
  • •English language requirement
  • •Must maintain residence conditions for 2 years
  • •Processing can take 6+ months

💡 Tips

  • •Work on AEWV first to gain NZ experience and employment
  • •Green List roles have streamlined pathway
  • •Higher salary = more points
  • •NZ qualifications add points
  • •Regional employment outside Auckland adds points

Green List Straight to Residence

WorkPopular

Fast-track residence for workers in critical shortage occupations on the Green List. No points required - direct pathway from job offer.

730d
Duration
NZD 4,640
— fee
+NZD 1,300 additional
📍Apply: Online
⏱4 to 6 months typically
🔄No extension
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
NZDUSD
Required
Residence application feeStandard residence application
NZD 4,640—
Additional (estimated)
Qualification assessmentMay be required for some roles
NZD 800—
Registration feesFor regulated professions
NZD 500—
Required Total
NZD 4,640—
+ Additional (estimated)
NZD 1,300—
Estimated Total
NZD 5,940—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Job or job offer in Green List occupation
  • •Meet occupation-specific requirements (qualifications, registration)
  • •Salary meets Green List threshold
  • •Good health and character
  • •English language proficiency
  • •Age under 55 (generally)

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Verify your occupation is on the Green List
  2. 2Confirm you meet occupation-specific requirements
  3. 3Secure job offer from NZ employer (accreditation not required for residence)
  4. 4Apply directly for residence visa online
  5. 5Provide qualifications, registration, and job offer evidence
  6. 6Complete health and character checks
  7. 7Wait for processing
  8. 8Receive Resident Visa

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Limited to specific occupations on Green List
  • •Must meet occupation-specific requirements
  • •List can change - occupations added/removed
  • •Registration requirements for regulated professions
  • •Salary thresholds apply

💡 Tips

  • •Check current Green List on INZ website - it changes
  • •Healthcare, construction, engineering roles commonly included
  • •Get NZ registration for regulated professions before applying
  • •Some roles also available via Work to Residence pathway

Student Visa

Education

For international students enrolled in NZ educational institutions. Allows part-time work during studies and full-time during holidays.

1460d
Duration
NZD 25,395
— fee
+NZD 350 additional
📍Apply: Online
⏱4 to 6 weeks
🔄Extendable +365d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
NZDUSD
Required
Student visa feeStandard application fee
NZD 395—
Tuition feesAverage annual tuition varies by program
NZD 25,000—
Additional (estimated)
Medical examinationRequired for stays over 6 months
NZD 300—
Police certificateFor stays over 24 months
NZD 50—
Required Total
NZD 25,395—
+ Additional (estimated)
NZD 350—
Estimated Total
NZD 25,745—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Offer of place from approved NZ education provider
  • •Evidence of tuition payment or scholarship
  • •Proof of funds for living costs (NZD $20,000/year)
  • •Good health and character
  • •Genuine student intent
  • •Accommodation arrangements
  • •Medical/travel insurance

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Receive offer from NZ education provider
  2. 2Pay tuition fees or obtain scholarship confirmation
  3. 3Gather proof of funds
  4. 4Apply for student visa online
  5. 5Upload documents and pay fee
  6. 6Provide biometrics if requested
  7. 7Wait for processing
  8. 8Travel to NZ before course starts

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Must maintain full-time enrollment
  • •Work hours limited during term time
  • •Must show genuine student intent
  • •Cannot change to lower-level study easily
  • •Attendance requirements enforced

💡 Tips

  • •Choose NZQA-approved providers for immigration pathways
  • •Level 7+ qualifications give better post-study work rights
  • •Consider studying in regions outside Auckland for immigration points
  • •Masters and PhD students have better work rights

Post-Study Work Visa

Work

Open work visa for international graduates of NZ qualifications. Duration depends on qualification level, up to 3 years.

1095d
Duration
NZD 700
— fee
📍Apply: Online
⏱3 to 4 weeks
🔄No extension
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
NZDUSD
Required
Post-Study Work Visa feeStandard application fee
NZD 700—
Required Total
NZD 700—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Completed eligible NZ qualification
  • •Applied within 3 months of final result or visa expiry
  • •Good health and character
  • •Valid passport
  • •Current or recent student visa holder

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Complete your NZ qualification
  2. 2Receive final results/graduation confirmation
  3. 3Apply online within 3 months
  4. 4Upload completion letter from institution
  5. 5Pay application fee
  6. 6Receive open work visa

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Must apply within 3 months of completion
  • •Qualification must be from approved provider
  • •Duration tied to qualification level
  • •Cannot extend beyond initial grant
  • •Must transition to other visa for longer stay

💡 Tips

  • •Use this time to gain NZ work experience
  • •Target skilled employment for residence pathway
  • •Network and apply for permanent roles
  • •Consider AEWV for longer-term employment

📊 Quick Facts

CapitalWellington
CurrencyNZD ($)
LanguageEnglish, Māori
TimezoneUTC+12 (NZST)
Last UpdatedDec 3, 2025

🔗 Official Resources

Immigration BureauEmbassy Website

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Does New Zealand have a Digital Nomad Visa?
No, New Zealand does not have a dedicated Digital Nomad Visa. However, from January 27, 2025, all visitor visas (including NZeTA visa waiver) allow unlimited remote work for overseas employers or clients. You can work remotely for companies based outside New Zealand without limit while on a visitor visa. You CANNOT work for New Zealand employers or provide goods/services to NZ businesses on a visitor visa.
Can I work remotely in New Zealand on a tourist visa?
Yes, from January 27, 2025. All visitor visas applied for on or after this date allow remote work for overseas employers or self-employed work for clients outside New Zealand. There is no limit on hours. However, you cannot work for NZ-based employers, provide services to NZ businesses, or receive payment from NZ sources. Content creation is allowed as long as you are not promoting NZ businesses for payment.
What is the NZeTA and who needs it?
The NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) is required for citizens of 60+ visa-waiver countries before traveling to New Zealand. It costs NZD $17 (app) or $23 (website) plus $100 IVL levy. Once approved, the NZeTA is valid for 2 years with multiple entries. Each visit is limited to 90 days (6 months for UK citizens). You receive a Visitor Visa on arrival at the border. Australian citizens/residents do not need an NZeTA.
How long can I stay in New Zealand as a visitor?
With NZeTA visa waiver: 90 days per visit (6 months for UK), maximum 9 months in any 18-month period. With Visitor Visa: up to 9 months granted. You cannot stay more than 9 months in any 18-month period without special circumstances. For longer stays, consider Working Holiday Visa (if eligible), student visa, or work visa.
What is the Working Holiday Visa and who can apply?
The Working Holiday Visa allows young people (18-30, or 35 for some countries) from 41+ partner countries to work, travel, and study in NZ for 12-36 months. UK citizens can stay 36 months, Canadians 23 months, most others 12 months. You need NZD $4,200 in funds and medical insurance. Some countries have annual quotas that fill quickly. You can only get this visa once in your lifetime.
How do I open a bank account in New Zealand as a foreigner?
Non-residents can open NZ bank accounts with a valid visa (work, study, or long-term). Major banks (ANZ, Westpac, BNZ, ASB) offer migrant banking packages and allow account setup up to 180 days before arrival. You will need: passport, visa, proof of overseas address, and initial deposit. Full access requires in-person verification at a NZ branch. Alternatives like Wise and Revolut offer NZD accounts without NZ visa requirements.
Do I need to pay tax if I work remotely in New Zealand?
It depends on your stay length and tax treaties. If you stay less than 92 days in a 12-month period and your income is taxed elsewhere, you likely won't owe NZ tax. If your country has a tax treaty with NZ (US, UK, most of Europe, Australia), you may stay up to 183 days before becoming tax liable. If you exceed these limits, you may owe NZ tax from your first day. Consult a tax professional for your specific situation.
What is the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)?
The AEWV is New Zealand's primary work visa for skilled workers. You need a job offer from an Immigration NZ-accredited employer who has obtained a Job Check for your role. From March 2025: minimum wage is NZD $23.50/hr, 2 years experience required (down from 3). Visa valid up to 5 years for skilled roles, 3 years for ANZSCO Level 4-5 roles. Can lead to residence through Skilled Migrant Category or Green List pathways.
What is the Green List for immigration?
The Green List identifies occupations in critical shortage in New Zealand. Workers in Green List occupations may qualify for direct residence (Straight to Residence) or faster Work to Residence pathways. Common occupations include healthcare workers, construction trades, engineers, and IT professionals. Requirements vary by occupation but generally include specific qualifications, registration, and meeting salary thresholds.
What are the best cities for digital nomads in New Zealand?
Auckland is the largest city with most coworking spaces, cafes, and networking opportunities. Wellington offers a compact, walkable city with strong tech/startup scene. Queenstown appeals to adventure seekers with stunning scenery but higher costs. Christchurch is more affordable with growing tech hub. Tauranga and Hamilton offer smaller city lifestyle. All have good internet infrastructure. Consider seasonal weather - winter (June-August) is cold in the South Island.
⚠️

Important Disclaimer

Visa requirements can change frequently. This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or immigration authorities before making travel plans. Last updated: December 3, 2025

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