The Active Investor Plus Visa New Zealand is your gateway to not just a new investment landscape, but a new way of life. If you’re a discerning investor with an eye on the Land of the Long White Cloud, this guide is crafted for you. The journey to residency in one of the world’s most stable and beautiful countries can seem complex, but with the right information, it’s a very achievable dream. This article will walk you through the revamped visa categories, investment requirements, and the application process, providing actionable advice to help you succeed.
For many high-net-worth individuals I’ve advised over the years, the allure of New Zealand is undeniable. It’s a place where thriving business opportunities meet an unparalleled quality of life. The recent changes to the Active Investor Plus Visa have made this prospect even more attractive, simplifying the process and offering greater flexibility. Let’s explore how you can make your New Zealand dream a reality.
Active Investor Plus Visa New Zealand
| Key Fact | Detail/Statistic | Source (Linked) |
| New Investment Categories | Two streamlined options: ‘Growth’ and ‘Balanced’, effective from April 1, 2025. | Beehive.govt.nz |
| Minimum Investment | NZ$5 million for the Growth category (3-year term) or NZ$10 million for the Balanced category (5-year term). | Immigration New Zealand |
| Physical Presence | Minimum of 21 days over 3 years for the Growth category, or 105 days over 5 years for the Balanced category. | Immigration Chambers |
| English Language Requirement | Removed for the principal applicant to lower barriers to investment. | KPMG International |
| Application Processing Time | Approval in principle is typically within five months for 80% of applications. | NZ Immigration Info |
The revamped Active Investor Plus Visa New Zealand offers a clear and compelling pathway to residency for global investors. By understanding the requirements, choosing the right investment strategy, and preparing a thorough application, you can position yourself for a successful outcome. New Zealand is open for business and eager to welcome investors who will contribute to its vibrant economy and society. Take the first step today by exploring the official resources and considering how your investment goals can align with the incredible opportunities awaiting you in Aotearoa.
Understanding the Two Paths to Residency: Growth vs. Balanced
The New Zealand government has simplified the Active Investor Plus Visa by creating two distinct categories to cater to different investor profiles. This change, which took effect on April 1, 2025, moves away from the previous weighted system to a more straightforward approach.
The Growth Category: For the High-Impact Investor
This category is designed for investors who want to make a significant, direct impact on New Zealand’s economy. It focuses on higher-growth, and consequently higher-risk, investments.
- Minimum Investment: NZ$5 million
- Investment Term: 3 years
- Physical Presence: A minimum of 21 days in New Zealand over the 3-year investment period.
- Acceptable Investments: This category prioritizes active investments such as:
- Direct investments into pre-approved New Zealand businesses.
- Managed funds (like private equity or venture capital) that invest in New Zealand businesses.
The Growth category is ideal for the hands-on investor who is excited by the prospect of fostering innovation and growth in Kiwi companies.
The Balanced Category: For the Diversified Investor
If you prefer a more diversified portfolio that balances growth with stability, the Balanced category offers greater flexibility.
- Minimum Investment: NZ$10 million
- Investment Term: 5 years
- Physical Presence: A minimum of 105 days in New Zealand over the 5-year investment period. This can be reduced if you invest more than the minimum in growth-focused assets.
- Acceptable Investments: The options here are broader and include:
- All investments from the Growth category.
- Listed equities in companies on the NZX.
- Bonds (government and corporate).
- Property development (new builds that increase housing stock or significant commercial/industrial developments).
- Philanthropy through donations to registered New Zealand charities.
This category suits investors who want to spread their capital across various asset classes, mitigating risk while still contributing to New Zealand’s economic landscape.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to the Application Process
Navigating the application process for the Active Investor Plus Visa New Zealand can be broken down into clear, manageable steps. In my experience, a well-prepared and organized application is the cornerstone of success.
1. Initial Planning and Eligibility Check
Before you begin, ensure you meet the fundamental requirements:
- Investment Capital: You must have the required funds (NZ$5M or NZ$10M) and be able to provide evidence of their legal ownership and source.
- Health and Character: You and your family members included in the application must meet New Zealand’s health and character standards. This typically involves medical examinations and police certificates.
- Fit and Proper Person Test: You must satisfy Immigration New Zealand that you are a “fit and proper person,” which involves a review of your business history and conduct.
2. Crafting Your Investment Plan
This is a crucial stage. You need to decide which investment category aligns with your goals and risk appetite. Research acceptable investments thoroughly. For direct investments and managed funds, New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) provides a list of approved entities.
3. Submitting Your Application
The application is submitted online through the Immigration New Zealand portal. You will need to provide comprehensive documentation, including:
- Proof of identity.
- Evidence of your investment funds.
- Your detailed investment plan.
- Health and character documents.
4. Approval in Principle (AIP) and Transferring Funds
Once your application is assessed and deemed to meet the criteria, you will receive an Approval in Principle (AIP). This is your green light to transfer your investment funds to New Zealand. You have six months from the date of your AIP to complete your investments, with a possible one-time six-month extension.
5. Visa Grant and Meeting Your Obligations
After you provide evidence that your funds have been invested according to your plan, your resident visa will be granted. From here, you must maintain your investments for the required period (3 or 5 years) and meet the physical presence requirements.
Here is a relevant post from New Zealand’s Minister for Economic Development, Nicola Willis, on the early success of the revamped visa program.
Life in New Zealand: Beyond the Investment
Securing your visa is the beginning of a new chapter. New Zealand offers an exceptional lifestyle, a world-class education system for your children, and a safe, welcoming environment. Your family, including your partner and dependent children up to the age of 24, can be included in your application, allowing them to live, work, and study in this beautiful country.
The path to permanent residency opens up after you have fulfilled the conditions of your initial visa. After three years for the Growth category or five years for the Balanced category, you can apply for a Permanent Resident Visa, which offers even greater security and fewer travel restrictions.
To get a feel for the vibrant culture and community you could be joining, check out some visuals from Tourism New Zealand.
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FAQs
Q1:What is the main difference between the Growth and Balanced categories?
The Growth category requires a lower investment (NZ$5M) over a shorter period (3 years) in high-growth assets. The Balanced category requires a higher investment (NZ$10M) over a longer period (5 years) but allows for a more diversified, lower-risk portfolio.
Q2:Can I include my family in my application?
Yes, you can include your partner and dependent children aged 24 and under in your visa application. They will gain the right to live, work, and study in New Zealand.
Q3:Do I need to speak English to apply?
No, the English language requirement for the principal applicant was removed in the April 2025 changes to make the visa more accessible to a wider range of investors.
Q4:How long does the application process take?
Immigration New Zealand estimates that 80% of applications will receive an Approval in Principle (AIP) within five months of submission. However, processing times can vary depending on the complexity of the application.
Q5:What happens after my investment period is over?
Once you have maintained your investment and met the physical presence requirements for the specified term (3 or 5 years), you will be eligible to apply for a Permanent Resident Visa, which grants you indefinite right to live and work in New Zealand.
