New Zealand Investor Immigration Golden Ticket
On 1 April 2025, the Government made changes to the Active Investor Plus Visa to make investing in New Zealand a more attractive opportunity. The changes will provide a simpler opportunity to invest in New Zealand and gain residency by exploring the visa option.
Lower minimums
Since 1 April 2025, the visa has two investment categories – Growth and Balanced. A minimum of NZD $5 million over a 3-year investment term is required for Growth category investors. A minimum of NZD $10 million is required for Balanced category investors over a 5-year investment term.
This is a welcome change that enables more investors to apply for residency in comparison to the previous scheme where a NZD $15 million (or weighted equivalent) investment was required.
Scope Broadened
Alongside this, the scope of acceptable investments has been broadened for the Balanced category, to now include bonds and property investments. Equities and philanthropy remain acceptable investments. For example, now an eligible investment can include residential developments made for commercial returns which increase housing supply in New Zealand.
Other Changes
Changes were also made to the investment timeframes, investment categories, immigration requirements, English language requirements, and the investment process. This aims to help attract high value investments by simplifying the process and incentivise people to invest in ‘active’ investment classes.
Contact Rupert Ward to discuss residency via investment in New Zealand.