MP Nick Smith's New Zealand visa proposal aims to make the country attractive to overseas retirees.
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29 April 2013
Retirement New Zealand visa proposed
A proposal to introduce a new category of New Zealand visa which would allow retirees to live in New Zealand tax-free has been proposed in the country's parliament.
National Party MP Nick Smith has tabled a petition in parliament to create a New Zealand visa for financially independent retirees which would allow them to live in the country on a permanent basis.
The petition suggests that retirees wanting to move to New Zealand who would require no support from the state pay into a government-operated trust fund which would account for any medical costs they should require during the stay.
Under current New Zealand immigration legislation, overseas retirees can relatively easily obtain a visa to stay in New Zealand for up to six months, and those with relatives can qualify for settlement.
However, it is hoped the new visa category would make New Zealand an attractive retirement hub as well as contribute to the country's economy. In return for a visa, the holder would be permitted to live in New Zealand for as long as they like, with the freedom to exit and return at will.
The New Zealand Visa Bureau is an independent migration consultancy that specialises in helping people apply for a New Zealand Working Holiday Visa.