New Zealand Investment Visas

Business Investor Work Visa (BIV)

The New Zealand Business Investor Work Visa is designed for experienced business people looking to establish, purchase, or invest in a New Zealand business. This visa allows you to live and work in New Zealand while actively managing your business, with a pathway to residency for those who meet investment and business performance requirements. To be eligible, applicants typically need to demonstrate relevant business experience, meet a minimum investment threshold, and present a credible plan for their New Zealand venture.

The Business Investor Visa (BIV) is a temporary residency visa. Holders receive a 4-year work visa and are required to actively operate their business throughout the period. There are two pathways to permanent residency:

  • NZD $1 million investment → 3-year pathway to permanent residency

  • NZD $2 million investment → 12-month fast-track to permanent residency

Once conditions are met, applicants can apply for a Business Investor Resident Visa, and eventually a Permanent Resident Visa after 2 years of holding residency.

Active Investor Plus (AIP)

The New Zealand Active Investor Plus Visa is designed for high net worth individuals seeking to grow their wealth while contributing to New Zealand's economy. This visa requires a minimum investment into acceptable New Zealand investments, with the required amount varying depending on the investment type. Applicants benefit from flexible time-in-country requirements (21 days in 3 years for the Growth Category and 105 days in 5 years for the Balanced Category) and a clear pathway to residency, making it an attractive option for globally mobile investors who want a foothold in one of the world's most stable and desirable destinations.

The Active Investor Plus (AIP) Visa is not immediately a permanent residency visa; it's a pathway to one.

Holders receive a Resident Visa first, which becomes a Permanent Resident Visa once investment conditions (NZD $5M–$10M over 3–5 years) and minimum time-in-country requirements are met.