Understanding the New Investment Visa Pathways: New Zealand

New Zealand’s “golden visa” programme for high-net-worth individuals and business investors has undergone significant reform throughout 2025 and 2026.

The country’s residency-by-investment framework is now centred on two visa categories: the Active Investor Plus (AIP) Visa and the Business Investor Visa (BIV).

Active Investor Plus (AIP) Visa

The Active Investor Plus Visa is designed for high-net-worth investors and offers two investment pathways.

The Growth category requires a minimum investment of NZD$5 million over three years, with a minimum physical presence in New Zealand of just 21 days during the investment period.

From June 2026, applicants in the Growth category may allocate up to 20% of their qualifying investment (NZD$1 million) to approved philanthropic organisations.

The Balanced category requires a NZD$10 million investment over five years and a minimum physical presence of 105 days.

A key feature of the AIP Visa is an exemption allowing eligible investors to purchase residential property valued at more than NZD$5 million for personal use.

To qualify, applicants must satisfy New Zealand’s stringent investor test, demonstrating no serious criminal convictions, significant regulatory fines or substantial unpaid tax liabilities.

Business Investor Visa (BIV)

The Business Investor Visa is designed for active business owners and entrepreneurs seeking to establish or invest in a New Zealand business.

Applicants can apply under one of two pathways:

Standard pathway – invest NZD$1 million in a qualifying business over three years.

Fast-Track pathway – invest NZD$2 million over an accelerated 12-month period.

Applicants must:

• be aged under 55 years
• achieve an International English Language Testing System minimum score of 5.0
• demonstrate relevant business management experience
• spend at least 184 days each year in New Zealand.

The qualifying business must create at least one new employment role.

NB Passive investments and certain retail business models, including franchises and convenience stores, are specifically excluded from this visa category.

Source of Investment Funds

Regardless of the investment pathway, applicants are subject to rigorous due diligence requirements.

Investors must demonstrate that their investment capital has been obtained from lawful sources and ensure all funds are transferred directly through the banking system into New Zealand.

Summary of Investment Visa Pathways

Need Advice on Doing Business in New Zealand?

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