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Remote Worker Tourist Visa in New Zealand: Perform Job Obligations Abroad as a Traveler

New Zealand is planning to establish a digital nomad visa, enabling remote workers to reside in the country for a year; however, implementation might be delayed.

Work as a Remote Employee While Touring Around New Zealand as a Visitor
Work as a Remote Employee While Touring Around New Zealand as a Visitor

Remote Worker Tourist Visa in New Zealand: Perform Job Obligations Abroad as a Traveler

In a significant move, New Zealand is set to become the first country in Oceania to introduce updated visitor visas that allow remote work, marking a step towards a digital nomad visa. This development follows the announcement made by Erica Stanford, who outlined changes that will allow individuals holding tourist visas from certain countries to work remotely.

Currently, countries offering digital nomad visas include Spain, Portugal, Estonia, Hungary, Italy, Malta, Croatia, Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines, among others. While New Zealand's updated visitor visas do not constitute an official digital nomad visa, they represent a promising step forward.

The updated visitor visas are valid for either 6 months (multiple-entry) or 9 months (single-entry). To be eligible, applicants must not work for a New Zealand-based company, not sell products or services in New Zealand, pay the NZD $341 visa fee, and have a valid passport.

To apply for a Visitor Visa, applicants must submit the following documents in English: Valid Passport, Reason for Visit, Proof of Onward Travel, Proof of Funds, Certificate of Good Health, Criminal Background Check, International Health Insurance Policy, and Proof of Relationship (if applicable). If staying more than 6 months, a Chest X-Ray is also required.

It's worth noting that working remotely may not be the main motivation for visiting New Zealand under the updated visitor visa rules. The average cost of living for an individual in popular digital nomad cities in New Zealand (Wellington, Auckland, Queenstown, Christchurch) is around $3,000 USD.

For those considering applying for a New Zealand digital nomad tourist visa, Nomads Embassy offers a streamlined process, hand-selected local immigration lawyers, and an innovative platform to assist with applications. They have scouted for the best, most reliable immigration lawyers worldwide to ensure a smooth application process. Additionally, Nomads Embassy provides a free digital nomad visa eligibility check.

It's important to remember that holders of the New Zealand digital nomad tourist visa may still be liable to pay local taxes, depending on their home country's taxation treaty with New Zealand.

As New Zealand continues to develop its digital infrastructure, it is implementing a fibre wifi connection, increasing speeds up to 400 Mbps. This move further solidifies New Zealand's appeal to digital nomads seeking a high-speed internet connection.

In conclusion, New Zealand's updated visitor visas represent a significant step towards embracing the digital nomad lifestyle. With its stunning landscapes, high-speed internet, and welcoming attitude, New Zealand is shaping up to be an attractive destination for remote workers looking to explore new horizons.

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