Understanding the Active Investor Plus Visa
The Active Investor Plus (AIP) Visa is a premier investment pathway designed to attract high-net-worth individuals who can contribute significantly to New Zealand’s economy. Active Investor Plus Visa category incentivizes direct investment in New Zealand firms, ensuring robust economic benefits while offering investors a gateway to residency.
Key Features of the Active Investor Plus Visa
The AIP Visa, introduced on 19 September 2022, replaced the previous Investor 1 and Investor 2 visa categories. This revamped system aims to promote higher business productivity and job creation while allowing investors to leverage New Zealand’s thriving economy.
Investment Requirements and Categories
Effective 1 April 2025, significant changes to the visa program will enhance its attractiveness. The revised framework introduces two investment categories, ensuring greater flexibility for investors:
- Growth Category: Minimum investment of NZD$5 million
- Balanced Category: Minimum investment of NZD$10 million
Each category offers distinct advantages based on the investor’s risk appetite and strategic goals.
Types of Eligible Investments
The Balanced Category will now accept a broader range of investment options, including:
- Direct Investments: High-growth New Zealand businesses and startups
- Bonds: Government and corporate bonds
- Property Investments: New residential developments, as well as new or existing commercial and industrial developments
This diversification provides investors with enhanced opportunities while fostering New Zealand’s economic growth.
Advantages of the AIP Visa
The updated Active Investor Plus Visa introduces several investor-friendly modifications, making New Zealand an even more attractive destination:
- Faster Investment Deployment: Investors must finalize their investments within six months of approval in principle. However, a six-month extension is available if required.
- Reduced Residency Requirements: Investors opting for more active investment roles will benefit from fewer residency obligations.
- No English Language Requirement: Unlike previous investor categories, applicants are no longer required to meet specific language proficiency criteria.
Application and Approval Statistics
As of 5 February 2025, the AIP Visa program has seen significant engagement:
- 101 applications involving 318 individuals have been submitted since the program’s inception.
- 43 applications approved, contributing NZD$545 million in investment.
- 31 applications approved in principle, accounting for an additional NZD$363 million in anticipated investments.
- 14 applications currently under assessment, with continued interest from global investors.
These figures highlight the growing appeal of New Zealand as a prime investment destination for international investors.
Comparison: Active Investor Plus Visa vs. Previous Investor Visas
The new visa framework significantly improves upon the previous Investor 1 and Investor 2 categories by prioritizing direct investments and offering a more structured approach.
- Investor 1 & 2 Visa – Passive Investments: 40%
- Investor 1 & 2 Visa – Direct Investments: 20%
- Active Investor Plus – Growth Investments: 40%
Explanation:
- Previous Investor Visas (Investor 1 & 2) allocated more towards passive investments (40%)—this likely refers to investments that require little direct involvement, such as government bonds or shares in large funds.
- Direct investments under Investor 1 & 2 only accounted for 20%, meaning there was less emphasis on actively participating in businesses.
- The new AIP Visa focuses 40% on growth investments, which implies a shift towards direct, high-impact investments in New Zealand businesses.
The AIP Visa encourages more active investments, aligning with the government’s goal to attract investors who contribute directly to New Zealand’s economy rather than passively holding financial assets.
How to Apply for the Active Investor Plus Visa?
Investors interested in securing an AIP Visa should follow these steps:
- Assess Eligibility: Ensure compliance with the minimum investment criteria.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Provide details on intended investments and background information.
- Receive Approval in Principle: If eligible, a Receive Approval in Principle will be granted, allowing the investor to proceed.
- Complete Investment Within Six Months: Finalize investments within the stipulated timeframe.
- Submit Evidence of Investment: Provide proof of committed funds.
- Receive Residency Approval: Once all requirements are met, residency status is granted.
Why Invest in New Zealand?
New Zealand offers a stable economy, a business-friendly environment, and access to global markets. The AIP Visa provides investors with a strategic opportunity to gain residency while contributing to a dynamic and rapidly growing economy.
Final Thoughts
With its updated structure, diverse investment options, and streamlined residency process, the AIP Visa stands out as one of the most attractive investment immigration programs globally. Prospective investors should prepare for the April 2025 changes to maximize their opportunities and capitalize on New Zealand’s expanding economic landscape.
Gain a competitive edge in securing your Active Investor Plus Visa with expert assistance from Immigration Chambers. Our specialists simplify the process by evaluating eligibility, crafting compelling applications, and coordinating with immigration authorities. Let our Immigration Adviser in New Zealand guide you through complex visa policies and help you maximize your investment potential.
For further updates and detailed investment guidelines, stay tuned to our latest news blogs as new information becomes available in March 2025.