New Zealand is enhancing its Active Investor Plus Visa program, making it more attractive for high-net-worth individuals seeking residency through investment. The revised framework, effective April 1, 2025, introduces streamlined investment categories, broader eligible investment options, and simplified application processes. These changes aim to drive foreign direct investment into high-value sectors while offering greater flexibility for investors.
New Zealand Revised Investment Categories
Two distinct investment categories have been introduced to offer tailored investment opportunities:
1. Growth Category
- Minimum Investment: NZD $5 million
- Investment Term: 3 years
- Acceptable Investments: Primarily focused on active investments, including equities and philanthropy.
- Residence Requirement: 21 days in New Zealand over the investment term.
2. Balanced Category
- Minimum Investment: NZD $10 million
- Investment Term: 5 years
- Expanded Investment Scope: Includes bonds, property developments, equities, and philanthropy.
- Residence Requirement: 105 days over the investment term, with potential reductions based on higher investments.
Expanded Scope of Acceptable Investments
To provide investors with more diversified opportunities, the Balanced Category now includes:
- Bonds: Government and corporate bonds.
- Property Investments: Limited to new residential developments (which increase housing supply) and commercial or industrial projects (adding value such as earthquake strengthening).
- Managed Funds: Investments managed by New Zealand financial institutions.
- Growth Category Investments: Eligible investments under the Growth Category can contribute to Balanced Category allocations.
Flexible Residency Requirements for High-Value Investments
Investors choosing the Balanced Category may qualify for a reduced residency requirement based on their total investment:
| Total Investment | Required Stay in NZ |
|---|---|
| NZD $10 million | 105 days |
| NZD $11 million | 91 days |
| NZD $12 million | 77 days |
| NZD $13 million | 63 days |
To qualify for reduced residency requirements, investors must nominate the additional investment amount before receiving their visa approval in principle.
Related Article: FAQs: Changes to the Active Investor Plus Visa Settings
Streamlined Investment Timeframes
All investments must be completed within six months of visa approval. However, investors can apply for a one-time extension of an additional six months, provided they can demonstrate reasonable efforts to transfer and invest funds.
Option to Switch Between Categories
Applicants can request to change their investment category (from Balanced to Growth or vice versa). However, this option is available only once during the investment period.
Key Policy Enhancements
To simplify the process and encourage foreign investment, several additional improvements have been introduced:
- Removal of English Language Requirements: Investors no longer need to meet English proficiency criteria.
- No Investment Caps: Applicants can invest above the minimum threshold without restrictions.
- On-Call Investments: Investors can place funds in term deposits, bank accounts, or bonds before being transferred into managed funds.
- Reinvestment Flexibility: Growth Category applicants may reinvest up to NZD $1 million in Balanced Category investments under certain conditions.
- Dependent Child Residency: Newborn children of investors will qualify for a Dependent Child Resident Visa, allowing them to be added to their parent’s Permanent Resident Visa application.
Application Process for New Investors
From April 1, 2025, all applicants must submit their applications under the revised framework. The updated application form will require investors to specify their chosen investment category and submit relevant documentation.
For those who have already applied under the existing Active Investor Plus Visa scheme but have not yet been granted residence, there will be an option to transition to the new policy settings. Immigration New Zealand will provide further guidance to such applicants by mid-March 2025.
Strategic Benefits for Investors
The updated Active Investor Plus Visa offers international investors a gateway to New Zealand’s thriving economy while providing opportunities for substantial returns on investment. The policy changes emphasize active investment, fostering growth in key economic sectors, and contributing to infrastructure, housing, and commercial development.
These modifications make New Zealand’s investment residency program one of the most competitive globally, offering high-net-worth individuals a unique opportunity to secure residency while contributing to economic development.
Next Steps: How to Apply
- Review the eligibility requirements and select your preferred investment category.
- Gather the required financial documentation and investment plans.
- Submit your application through Immigration New Zealand’s official platform after 1st April, 2025.
- Consult with a Licensed Immigration Lawyer Auckland or a New Zealand-based financial consultant for personalized guidance.
Immigration Chambers Assistance
At Immigration Chambers, we provide expert guidance for securing the Active Investor Plus Visa, ensuring a smooth application process. Our specialists assist in investment category selection, documentation, and compliance with immigration regulations. Trust us to streamline your journey and maximize your investment potential in New Zealand. Connect with our experienced advisors to unlock premium investment opportunities with the Active Investor Plus Visa.