Active Investor Plus Visa Updates: Key FAQs Answered
1. When Will These Changes Take Effect?
The revised Active Investor Plus (AIP) Visa settings will come into force on 1 April 2025. Prospective investors must align their applications with these updated regulations.
2. Why Is the Government Changing the Investor Visa Settings?
The changes aim to simplify and expand investment options, making New Zealand a more attractive destination for high-value foreign investors while stimulating economic growth.
3. What Are the New Investment Categories?
From 1 April 2025, two simplified AIP investment categories will be available:
Growth Category: Higher-risk investments, including direct investments and managed funds.
- Minimum investment: NZ$5 million
- Investment duration: Three years
- Minimum stay requirement: 21 days in New Zealand over three years
Balanced Category: Mixed investments with an option for lower-risk investments.
- Minimum investment: NZ$10 million
- Investment duration: Five years
- Minimum stay requirement: 105 days in New Zealand over five years
4. Can a Balanced Category Applicant Invest in Direct Investments or Managed Funds?
Yes, Balanced category applicants can still invest in direct investments and managed funds.
5. Can I Reduce My Required Stay in New Zealand?
Yes. If you are a Balanced category applicant, you can reduce your in-country stay by investing more than the minimum NZ$10 million.
6. What Happens to Existing AIP Applicants?
- If you have already been approved in principle (AIP), you can opt to transition to the new program.
- More details will be provided by Immigration New Zealand (INZ) in early March 2025.
7. What Happens to Investments Approved Before 1 April 2025?
- Direct investments approved before the changes remain valid.
- Managed funds approved before the changes continue to be acceptable investment options.
8. How Long Do I Have to Transfer My Funds After Approval?
After receiving approval in principle, you have six months to transfer and invest your nominated funds.
- If needed, you can apply for a six-month extension with proof of reasonable attempts to transfer funds.
9. Who Approves the Investment Categories?
- Growth Category: Managed by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE), which approves direct investments and managed funds.
- Balanced Category: Overseen by Immigration New Zealand (INZ), ensuring compliance with approved investments.
10. Can I Invest in a Previously Approved Company or Fund?
Yes. AIP applicants can invest in companies or managed funds approved under the old rules, provided that the approval remains valid.
11. How Can NZTE Assist Investor Migrants?
NZTE’s Investment Team, with 50 global professionals, offers:
- Access to exclusive investment opportunities via the Live Deals platform.
- Navigation assistance through New Zealand’s investment landscape.
- Connections with key stakeholders and organizations.
- Aftercare services to help investors expand their portfolios and networks.
12. Where Can I Get More Information?
For the latest updates, consult Immigration New Zealand and NZTE. Additional details on investment eligibility, listed equities, philanthropy, and bonds will be available by early March 2025.
Still have questions?
Immigration Chambers is here to provide expert guidance on the Active Investor Plus Visa ensuring compliance with the latest policy updates and help you navigate the application process smoothly. We help investors navigate eligibility criteria, documentation, and investment requirements for a seamless application process. Trust our experienced team to maximize your chances of success. Get in touch with our experts Immigration Lawyer New Zealand today for tailored investment visa solutions.