[Jennispink]

Does anyone know how easy it is to become self employed in NZ? It's a fairly easy process here and we're hoping that it will be over there too.
Any thoughts would be welcomed:nice1

[ourquest]

If you have an open work permit (for example as the spouse of a principle applicant with job offer) or if you obtain PR without job offers, then you are legally entitled to be self employed, and the same business principles apply as would anywhere else in the world to make it a success.

If it was your main reason for entering NZ, and additionally your method of entering NZ, then you would apply ahead of arrival for an LTBV (long term business visa), which has some daunting requirements attached to it, but less daunting if you are an experienced business person.

Without knowing the nature of what you intend to set up, or even exactly what info you are looking for, this will have to do as an answer for now.

[phatsharpie]

Just want to point out the tax implications if you are from the United States (can't tell from your profile). If you are coming from the US and plan to be self employed, you will be liable for US social security taxes (because there is no totalization agreement between the US and NZ), which amounts to about 15% of income.

-B

[benandclare]

About to set up my own little gardening business so ask us in 2-3 months :cheers

[Nick88]

It's a piece of cake in NZ. You will have to get an accountant, and they can guide you through it.

[pinkpiggy]

Sam is now self employed. As far as I know, and he can correct me if I'm wrong, he just had to register for GST. Other than that it seems to be fairly straight forward.

[Moorf]

Really straightforward - I went self-employed a year or so ago and I even do my own forms here - it's that easy! :nice1

[Jennispink]

Thanks everyone, exploring all the options at the moment but this is looking like a good one. :nice1