New Zealand has announced new visa rules to make it easier to enter the country. digital nomads - professionals who work remotely while traveling - as part of a strategy to boost tourism.
With the changes, visitors will be able to work remotely for foreign employers during their stay in the country for up to 90 days. After this period, they may be subject to taxation as residents.
"The change will allow many visitors to extend their stay, which will result in higher spending in the country." said Erica StanfordMinister of Immigration.
The country is currently facing a economic recessionand the tourism sector was heavily impacted by the closure of borders during the covid-19 pandemic.
"We welcome all kinds of visitors to New Zealand and, in particular, those who can work as digital nomads on our land." Stanford added.
The new rules apply to all types of visitor visa, including tourists, people visiting family members, partners or guardians on long-term visas. However, only remote work for foreign employers is allowed. Those whose work requires physical presence in the country will still need to obtain the appropriate visas.
The Minister of Economic Growth, Nicola Willisexpressed optimism that the measure will attract highly qualified professionals, connected to large companies and global industries.
"These jobs remain overseas, allowing workers to stay connected to their roles while enjoying their stay in New Zealand." said Willis, stressing that this initiative will not affect the local job market.
The impact of tourism on New Zealand's economy
Before the pandemic, tourism was New Zealand's largest export industrygenerating more than 40 billion New Zealand dollars (R$ 135 billion) for the economy, according to Tourism New Zealand.
The sector represented more than 5% of GDP of the country, but has suffered a sharp downturn in recent years due to the restrictions imposed by the health crisis.
This decline reflects broader economic challenges facing the country, including high inflation, rising interest rates e unemployment growthThis has led many New Zealanders to seek opportunities abroad.
New Zealand follows the global trend
The country joins a growing list of nations that have adopted specific visa programs for digital nomads, taking advantage of the rise of remote work.
The trend began to gain momentum in the 2010especially among young professionals who were looking for more flexibility at work. However, it was during the covid-19 pandemic that the demand for this lifestyle has skyrocketed, as companies have come to accept the remote model more widely.
Currently, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, Spain and Portugal are among the countries that already offer this type of visa.
However, the growing presence of digital nomads has sparked debate in some regions.
In Cape Town, South Africacritics argue that the arrival of remote workers has raised the local cost of living. In Spain and GreeceThe increase in the flow of visitors has sparked protests against excessive tourism and its impact on local communities.
With this new flexibility, New Zealand is seeking to strike a balance between attract high-income visitors e avoiding economic and social challenges faced by other countries that have adopted similar policies.
