Download the Moving to
New Zealand Guide
Thinking of swapping the States for stunning scenery and a better work-life balance?
New Zealand could be your next great adventure.
From visas and home buying to healthcare and taxes, we’ve put together a guide covering what you need to know before making the move.
Why move to New Zealand?
- Work-life balance is part of the culture – Kiwis value time with whānau (family), enjoying the outdoors, and not letting work take over life.
- Nature is always close by – Whether you’re in a big city or a small town, beaches, bush walks, mountains, and lakes are never far away.
- Rich Māori culture and history – Aotearoa is proud of its indigenous heritage, with te reo Māori, tikanga (customs), and stories woven into everyday life.
- Injury cover through ACC – If you’re injured in an accident, the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) helps cover your medical and recovery costs, regardless of who’s at fault or how long you’ve been in the country. You can’t sue for personal injury here.
- Subsidised public healthcare – Citizens, residents, and many work visa holders can access free or low-cost healthcare. Temporary visa holders may still be eligible for some services or can use travel insurance.
- Straightforward tax system – New Zealand has no capital gains tax, gift duty, death taxes, or stamp duty. Income tax is progressive, ranging from 10.5% to 39%.
- Tax perks for new migrants – If you haven’t been a New Zealand tax resident in the past 10 years, you may qualify for a four-year exemption on most overseas income under the transitional tax resident rules.
Try before you buy – how easy is it to visit New Zealand?
- Short trips: for trips three months or less, US citizens only need to obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority before travelling.
- Multiple entry: US citizens can apply for a visitor visa that allows multiple entries over a four-year period for up to six months in each 12-month period.
- Digital nomads: you can now work remotely whilst you have a visitor visa as long as you do not work for a New Zealand business or person, or your work does not require you to be physically present in New Zealand.
- Working holiday: if you’re aged 18-30, you could instead apply for a working holiday visa which would allow you to work for up to 12 months.
How easy is it to live in New Zealand?
There are a few different paths to residency in New Zealand. Here are some of the most common:
- Active Investor Plus visa – this requires an investment of at least $5 million or $10 million depending on the type of investment.
- Securing an offer of skilled employment to qualify for a Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa.
- Having a partner or an adult child who is a New Zealand citizen or resident.
For more information, download the Moving to New Zealand Guide.
Download the Moving to New Zealand Guide
* indicates required fields
Chat to an expert
Want personalised advice on your ability to obtain residency in New Zealand?
Book a consultation call with immigration Partner, Nicola Tiffen.
Nicola is a specialist immigration lawyer, with over 20 years of experience, and leads Duncan Cotterill’s national immigration team across our five offices.
Book a consultation with Nicola for $300 USD.
