Moving to New Zealand from the US: settle, work and thrive

With around 28,000 US-born residents now calling New Zealand home – a 29% rise in just five years – it’s clear the appeal is growing. Whether you're a remote worker or retiree, the country's natural beauty and laid-back lifestyle are major draws. New visa options and favorable tax rules are making moving to New Zealand from the US easier than ever.

This guide covers visas, residency, living costs, taxes, and daily life for Americans moving to New Zealand.

Why Americans love living in New Zealand

1. Ranked 12th globally with a quality of life index of 192.5, New Zealand offers a clean, well-connected, and stress-free environment.
2. Rooted in hospitality, New Zealand’s culture is warm and welcoming, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home.
3. With mild winters and sunny summers, the outdoors is always in season – perfect for surfing, skiing, or hiking.
4. With a safety index of 51.8 and a crime index of just 48.2, New Zealand is a safe and peaceful place to live.

(Quality of life, crime rate, and safety data sourced from Numbeo.)

Visa options for US expats moving to New Zealand

Visas for short-term stays

The Standard visitor visa lets US citizens stay for 6–9 months for tourism, family visits, or business (not local work). You can study for up to 3 months, and need proof of funds, a valid passport, and a return ticket. It costs from NZD $441 and is processed in about 2 weeks.

The New Zealand electronic travel authority (NZeTA) allows short trips of up to 90 days per visit (max 6 months in a 12-month span) under the visa waiver program. Valid for 2 years, it must be obtained online before travel. The application fee ranges from NZD $17–$23.

The Occupational registration visa, launched on January 27, 2025, permits remote work for foreign clients for up to 90 days. There’s no income requirement, but you can’t work for NZ-based employers. It’s ideal for freelancers or digital nomads with US-based work.

Skilled migrant & green list visas

If you're a US citizen with professional experience in a high-demand field, New Zealand offers attractive fast-track residency options. The Skilled migrant category resident visa and Green list pathway visa are ideal for qualified individuals with job offers from accredited New Zealand employers.

Skilled migrant resident visa

• Eligibility: To qualify, you must be 55 or under, have a skilled job in New Zealand, speak English fluently, and meet basic health and character checks.
• Documents needed: You'll need a US passport, job offer, proof of qualifications, police and medical checks.

Green list pathway

This visa is for those employed in roles listed on the Green List and offers faster processing than the standard Skilled Migrant route. Applicants must meet the same requirements but can gain residence in 6–12 months. It may lead to permanent residency after just 2 years.

Investment visas

The Entrepreneur work visa suits experienced businesspeople ready to invest at least NZD $100,000. Applicants must submit a solid business plan and provide evidence of good character, sound health, and sufficient English language proficiency. If the business succeeds after three years, you can apply for residency.

The Active investor plus visa, launched in April 2025, is a streamlined path with fewer barriers. Invest NZD $5 million in high-risk assets for 3 years or NZD $10 million in stable ones for 5 years. No English test is required, and minimal residency is needed to qualify.

Work visas

1. Work to residence visa
   To qualify, you’ll need a job offer in a green list occupation and be 55 or younger. The visa starts at NZD $6,450 and is valid for 30 months, with a clear path to residency. Bring your US passport, proof of employment, qualifications, and medical and police certificates – and get ready to start a new chapter in New Zealand.
2. Specific purpose work visa
   - Eligibility, documents, and cost: Designed for US expats working on specific projects like transfers or events, this visa requires a US passport, supporting documents, health, and character checks, and fees that vary by case.
   - Duration and renewability: Valid for up to 3 years based on project length and can be renewed if the role or purpose continues.
3. Accredited employer work visa (AEWV)
   To qualify, you need a full-time job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer in an eligible role. The visa costs NZD $1540, lasts up to 3 years (extendable to 5 for Green List jobs), and is usually processed in 20–35 days. It’s renewable and can lead to residency through the Skilled Migrant or Green List pathways.
4. USA working holiday visa
   If you’re a US citizen aged 18–30, the New Zealand Working Holiday Visa opens the door to a full year of travel and work adventures. For NZD $770, you get 12 months to explore the country just bring proof of about NZD $4,200 in funds and a return ticket (or enough to buy one). It’s a one-time, non-renewable opportunity with a quick two-week processing time perfect for a gap year or a life-reset sabbatical.

Student visas

Student visas let US citizens study in New Zealand for over three months with the bonus of working up to 20 hours weekly during term and full-time on breaks.

US students can apply for a Fee paying student visa (NZD $850) with proof of enrollment and funds, valid for up to 4 years and renewable if studies continue. The Exchange student visa also costs NZD $850, is processed faster, and allows tuition-free study for up to 4 years, but isn’t renewable.

Family visas

If you're in a committed relationship with a New Zealand citizen or resident, the Partner visa lets you live, work, and study with fees from NZD $860–$5360 and a 4–9 month wait.

Got family in NZ? The Parent retirement resident visa offers residency if you invest NZD $1 million over 4 years, have NZD $500,000 in funds, and earn NZD $60,000+ annually. For kids under 24, the Dependent child visa supports those who are single and financially reliant. All options require strong documentation and character clearance.

How to apply for a New Zealand visa as a US citizen

If you’re a US citizen planning to immigrate to New Zealand from the US, the visa process might seem daunting at first. Here’s how to navigate it step by step.

Step 1: Choose your visa and complete the application

Pick the visa that aligns with your goal work, study, retirement, or travel as it sets the path for your move. Then visit Immigration New Zealand to fill out the correct form, ensuring all details match your documents.

Step 2: Gather your documents and pay the fee

Have your passport, health and character records, and any required proof like a job offer or school acceptance ready to upload. Then pay the visa fee through official channels and keep a receipt for tracking.

Step 3: Submit and track your application

Submit your application online (or by post if required) and double-check for errors to avoid delays. After submission, monitor your status and respond quickly to any additional requests or interview calls.

Residency vs citizenship

Start with a resident visa after 2 years and proof of ties like work or family, you can upgrade to permanent residency with full stay and travel rights. Live in New Zealand for 5 years as a resident, meet language and character checks, and you can apply for citizenship and a Kiwi passport.

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Where to reside in New Zealand

Auckland

Auckland City at sunrise, New Zealand. PHOTO CREDIT: PEXELS

New Zealand’s largest city blends urban energy with easy access to beaches, hiking trails, and vineyards. It’s one of the country’s major port cities with a diverse population and a strong economy, making it a magnet for professionals. Many US expats find its multicultural vibe and vibrant food scene feel like a softer version of California living.

Wellington

Wellington city skylines, New Zealand. PHOTO CREDIT: PEXELS

Wellington is New Zealand’s capital compact, creative, and buzzing with culture. Known for its coffee, film industry (yes, Lord of the Rings), and laid-back lifestyle, it’s a favorite among young professionals and artists. US expats love the walkability and how easy it is to feel at home in its tight-knit neighborhoods.

Christchurch

A picturesque coastal village in Christchurch, New Zealand. PHOTO CREDIT: PEXELS

Often called the "Garden City," Christchurch mixes English charm with modern innovation. It's a great base for outdoor lovers, with quick access to beaches, ski fields, and national parks. For US expats seeking affordability and space without losing city perks, Christchurch hits the sweet spot.

Apart from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, US expats are also drawn to smaller, scenic cities like Napier, Tauranga, Nelson, Dunedin, and Whangrei. These spots offer coastal charm, vibrant communities, and easier access to nature whether it’s Napier’s sunshine, Nelson’s art scene, or Tauranga’s beach-town vibe.

New Zealand vs US: cost of living

Living in New Zealand is generally more affordable than in the US especially when it comes to housing, food, and healthcare.

• The average monthly cost for a family of four is $3,620, excluding rent.
• A single person spends about $1,005/month, also excluding rent.
• Overall cost of living is about 9.8% lower than in the US.
• Rent is significantly cheaper, averaging 37.8% less than in the United States.
• Groceries cost about 3.6% less than in the US, and eating out is 12.5% cheaper though consumer goods can be 7–10% higher due to imports.

While daily expenses like groceries and utilities are fairly consistent across the country, rent and lifestyle costs vary by city:

• Christchurch offers the most affordable rents and lowest overall costs, making it ideal for expats seeking value.
• Wellington, though slightly more expensive, is still far below US capital cities and offers excellent public services.
• Auckland is the priciest NZ city but remains significantly more affordable than places like San Francisco, New York, or Los Angeles.

(Cost of living data sourced from Numbeo.)

Gain employment in New Zealand

New Zealand’s job market is strong especially for US expats in high-demand fields like healthcare, construction, education, engineering, and tech. Roles in hospitality and agriculture are also expanding. Salaries are competitive: nurses earn NZD $70K$95K, software developers NZD $80K$120K, and construction managers over NZD $110K. If your job is on the Green List, you may qualify for fast-tracked residency.

To work legally, you’ll need a visa tied to a job offer most often the Accredited Employer Work Visa. Many Americans begin their search online from abroad. Top platforms include Seek, Trade Me Jobs , WorkHere, and New Kiwis the latter specifically helps migrants connect with employers. Job listings on these sites often include salary ranges, so you can benchmark early.

Healthcare services for US expats in New Zealand

Private health insurance in New Zealand can cost as little as NZD $75/month and may be required for certain visas it’s significantly cheaper than in the US and covers even fault-based injuries. Public healthcare is also low-cost and accessible for residents and work visa holders who stay 2+ years.

For US expats settling in New Zealand, Auckland City Hospital offers comprehensive public care at no cost if you're eligible under the public system. Those seeking faster treatment might opt for Southern Cross North Harbour hospital, a leading private hospital where costs depend on the procedure. In Wellington, Wakefield Hospital provides private specialist services ideal for expats looking to bypass public wait times.

Education in New Zealand - what US families should know

Public schooling: Free for kids aged 519, but expect donations and fees (NZD $1,000$2,000 annually). Auckland Grammar School requests NZD $1,300 per year.

Private schools: Tuition ranges from NZD $20,000$40,000. Diocesan School for Girls charges NZD $27,300, and St Andrew's College (Christchurch) costs NZD $20,000$25,000.

Preschool: First 20 hours of early childhood education (ECE) per week are free for all children aged 35, regardless of visa status.

Universities: All 8 NZ universities rank in the QS global top 500. Domestic tuition is NZD $6,000$9,000; international students pay NZD $25,000$35,000. Notables include University of Auckland (#68), Victoria University, Wellington, and University of Otago.

Taxes simplified for Americans living in New Zealand

Living in New Zealand as a US citizen means new adventures and dual tax duties, but with the right guidance, it’s totally manageable.

New Zealand taxes

New Zealand’s tax year runs from April 1 to March 31, with returns due by July 7 or extended to the following March 31 if you use a registered tax agent. New migrants may qualify for a four-year exemption on most foreign income (excluding wages) if they spend 183+ days in NZ or have a permanent home there.

Here’s what to expect as a tax resident:

• IR3: File this if you’re a resident with income not taxed at source (like rentals or overseas income).
• IR3NR: For non-residents earning New Zealandsourced income.
• IR330: Used to declare your tax code to your employer to ensure correct PAYE deductions.

Tax rates are progressive, up to 39%, and there’s no tax-free threshold all income is taxable from the first dollar.

Other New Zealand taxes include a 15% GST on goods and services, and levies like ESCT (up to 39%), RLWT on property sales, and the ACC wage deduction. Employers also pay FBT on perks like housing and cars.

US taxes

Your US tax responsibilities don’t disappear when you move they just get more complex. As a US citizen or green card holder, you must file Form 1040 each year and report your global income, even if you're taxed in New Zealand.

You may be able to reduce or eliminate double taxation with:

• Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) Exclude up to $130,000 in foreign wages (2025 cap) by filing Form 2555.
• Foreign Tax Credit (FTC) Claim credits for income tax paid to New Zealand with Form 1116.
• Foreign Housing Exclusion Deduct housing costs from income.

If you have more than $10,000 in foreign bank accounts, file an FBAR (FinCEN Form 114). Large foreign assets? You might also need Form 8938 under FATCA.

US expats must file by June 15 (June 16 in 2025) taxes are due by April 15 to avoid interest even if they file later. The final extension deadline is October 15 with Form 4868, but any taxes owed are still due in April. Dual citizens must still file, and you can request our free tax extension, if you need additional time.

Thankfully, the US-New Zealand tax treaty and foreign tax credits work together to help avoid paying twice on the same income as long as you file the right forms.

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Need help navigating taxes when moving to New Zealand?

Whether you're launching a new chapter in Auckland or settling into Wellington with your family, relocating to New Zealand is an exciting stepIn this guide, we’ve broken down what expats need to know, from visas to finances, so you can plan confidently.

At Taxes for Expats, we help Americans abroad stay IRS-compliant while focusing on their new life. Let us simplify the tax side of your move.