Want to employ a digital nomad? Read this first

Visitor visa holders can now legally work remotely while enjoying a Kiwi holiday. Know what is allowed for you as an employer.

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With visitor visa rules now allowing people to work remotely while holidaying in New Zealand, a growing number of digital nomads are arriving. They can stay for up to nine months and continue working for an offshore employer during their visit.

Before you consider them for a role in your business, it is important to understand what is permitted and what is not.

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What remote work is allowed on a Visitor Visa

The conditions of a visitor visa allow remote work only if:

• The main purpose for visiting New Zealand is holidaying, sightseeing or visiting family.
• Remote working must be incidental to the holiday and not the primary reason for being in New Zealand.
• The work must not involve a New Zealand employer.
• Visitor visa holders cannot work for a New Zealand business, offer goods or services in New Zealand for gain or reward, or be required to be physically present at a New Zealand workplace.

Remote working for an overseas employer is allowed. Working for a New Zealand business is not.

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Interested in hiring a digital nomad? Here’s what to know

As digital nomads explore New Zealand, many will connect with local employers and express interest in job opportunities. Some may have valuable skills that are a great fit for your business.

You can consider employing a digital nomad, but only if it is done the right way. People holding a visitor visa must notbegin working for a New Zealand employer until they have been granted a valid work visa.

Employing someone on a visitor visa breaches immigration rules. This can:

• Put your employer accreditation at risk
• Result in an infringement
• Make it more difficult to hire future migrant workers

Avoid shortcuts. Make sure the right visa is in place before any employment begins.

If a digital nomad has the skills your business needs, they can apply for a work visa from within New Zealand. They do not need to leave the country. As long as your business is accredited, the process is the same as it is for any other migrant worker.

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Digital nomads may be worth considering

Digital nomads are often highly mobile, skilled and tech-savvy. While a visitor visa does not allow them to work for a New Zealand employer, it does not mean they should be overlooked.

If they apply for a role and meet your needs, there is a clear legal pathway to bring them on board.

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Need help navigating visa rules or processes?‍

Our team at Malcolm Pacific Immigration can guide you through the correct steps to stay compliant and avoid risk.

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