Cook Islands

Retiree Visa and Permit

The Cook Islands Retiree Visa and Permit allows retired foreign nationals receiving a pension to reside in the Cook Islands for up to 12 months, renewable annually. Introduced through Cabinet-approved immigration policy changes on 24 January 2024, the program is administered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration (MFAI) under the Cook Islands Immigration Act 2021 and Immigration Regulations 2023. Eligibility is based on receipt of a pension rather than a specific retirement age, meaning early retirees receiving a pension may qualify. No employment or business activity is permitted; volunteer work for no reward is allowed.

• Foreign national of any nationality receiving ongoing pension payments from a legitimate provider
• Pension must be payable into a bank account accessible in the Cook Islands
• Valid and comprehensive medical and travel insurance covering the entire period of stay (mandatory)
• Long-term rental agreement or similar proof of commitment to stay
• Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended period of stay
• Police certificate required for stays of 6 months or more
• No employment or business activity during the stay

• Evidence of ongoing pension payments from a legitimate provider
• Valid and comprehensive medical and travel insurance for the full duration of stay
• Long-term rental agreement or similar accommodation proof
• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity beyond intended stay)
• Police certificate (for stays of 6 months or more)
• Medical clearance letter from the Cook Islands Ministry of Health (for stays of 6 months or more; examination completed offshore)

The visa is granted for 12 months and may be renewed annually. Holders can extend for an additional 12 months without being required to leave the Cook Islands between permits. The visa can be renewed indefinitely as long as the eligibility criteria continue to be met. The permit does not directly lead to permanent residency, which requires 10 years of residence in the Cook Islands (3 years for New Zealand citizens) and a significant and positive contribution to the Cook Islands.

No specific dependant provisions have been published for the Retiree Visa. Family members wishing to accompany a retiree may need to apply under standard visitor visa categories separately.

Holders present in the Cook Islands for more than 183 days in a 12-month period are considered tax residents and taxed on worldwide income. Personal income tax rates are: 0% on the first NZD$10,000 (pro-rated by days of residence), 25% on NZD$10,001–30,000, and 30% on income above NZD$30,000. There is no capital gains tax, no inheritance tax, and no withholding taxes.

Applications are submitted through the ASYPX online visa and permit application system, launched on 6 January 2025, accessible at mfai.gov.ck/immigration. Applicants create an account, complete the retiree visa application form, upload required documents, and pay the fee by credit or debit card. In-person appointments remain available by contacting MFAI by email. The application fee is set by Schedule 11 of the Cook Islands Immigration Regulations 2023 (specific amount not yet publicly confirmed at time of writing).

Links

• https://mfai.gov.ck/node/272
• https://mfai.gov.ck/sites/default/files/2024-05/Immigration%20policy%20changes%2024%20January%202024.pdf
• https://mfai.gov.ck/immigration
• https://mfai.gov.ck/sites/default/files/2024-02/Retiree%20Visa%20Application%20v1.pdf

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