Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa for New Zealand Passport Holders (2026)

Check the Sri Lanka embassy website for current entry requirements for New Zealand passport holders before applying for the digital nomad visa. Entry eligibility and digital nomad visa eligibility are assessed separately.

The Digital Nomad Visa assesses all applicants on the same criteria regardless of nationality. New Zealand citizens can apply provided they meet the following requirements:

• Income: $2,000/month — proven via 3–6 months bank statements
• Remote work proof: Employment contract, freelance agreements, or client letters confirming you work for non-Sri Lanka entities
• Health insurance: international health insurance covering Sri Lanka required
• Clean background: Police clearance from New Zealand (apostilled if required by Sri Lanka)
• Valid passport: New Zealand passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay
• Accommodation proof: Rental agreement, hotel booking, or property documents in Sri Lanka

Important: Documents not in Sri Lanka's official language or English must be certified translated. New Zealand applicants should confirm apostille requirements for documents issued in New Zealand.

1. Gather documentation. Collect 3–6 months of bank statements showing consistent income above the threshold, employment contracts or freelance agreements, valid New Zealand passport (6+ months validity), international health insurance certificate, and a police clearance certificate.
2. Authenticate documents. Check whether Sri Lanka requires apostille stamps on New Zealand-issued documents. Arrange certified translations for any documents not in the local language or English. This step can take 2–6 weeks — start early.
3. Check entry requirements. Verify whether New Zealand citizens can enter Sri Lanka visa-free or need a short-stay visa before applying for the digital nomad visa. Check the Sri Lanka embassy website for current entry requirements for New Zealand passport holders.
4. Submit your application. Apply through the official Sri Lanka government portal. Some programs accept online applications; others require in-person submission at a consulate.
5. Await approval and enter. Once approved, book travel and confirm your health insurance is active from day one. Register with local immigration if required within the first 30 days of arrival in Sri Lanka.

Tax obligations for New Zealand citizens on the Digital Nomad Visa depend on your residency status and duration of stay. Most digital nomad visa holders are not considered tax residents in Sri Lanka if their income originates abroad — but this is not guaranteed.

Extended stays (typically 183+ days in a calendar year) may trigger local tax residency. As a New Zealand citizen, you must also consider your home country's worldwide income reporting requirements and any bilateral tax treaty between New Zealand and Sri Lanka.

Always consult a tax professional who understands both New Zealand and Sri Lanka tax law before committing to an extended stay.

Weak or inconsistent income documentation

Depositing a lump sum right before applying won't work. Sri Lanka immigration officials want to see consistent income above the threshold over 3–6 months. Sporadic freelance payments or transfers from family members don't qualify. Start maintaining clean financial records as early as possible.

Missing apostille or translation requirements

New Zealand applicants often underestimate authentication requirements. New Zealand-issued documents — including bank letters, employment contracts, and police certificates — may need apostille stamps and certified translations. This process can take weeks. Budget for it early.

Not confirming entry eligibility before booking travel

New Zealand passport holders may need a short-stay visa to enter Sri Lanka before their digital nomad visa is approved. Confirm entry requirements with the Sri Lanka embassy before booking any flights. Entry eligibility and DNV eligibility are separate questions.