New Zealand Active Investor Plus Visa Program

View of beautiful Queenstown where the mountains meet the lake and where you could live with the New Zealand Active Investor Plus Visa

New Zealand experienced a net migration gain of 67,200 in the year ending July 2024, reflecting the nation’s growing reputation as a desirable destination for those seeking stability, opportunity, and an exceptional quality of life.  For investors, the New Zealand Active Investor Plus Visa program opens doors to residency while enabling meaningful economic contributions. This initiative fosters economic growth and provides a chance to integrate into a society renowned for its innovation and inclusivity. Whether your goals include supporting high-growth industries or embracing a new way of life, New Zealand might just be the best country you haven’t considered yet.

Benefits of Living in New Zealand

New Zealand is celebrated globally for its enviable quality of life. Its landscapes range from pristine beaches to towering mountain ranges, offering residents easy access to outdoor activities and natural beauty. New Zealand’s lifestyle is relaxed, focusing on achieving work-life balance, making it a top choice for families and professionals alike. The education system is recognized for its high standards, with schools and universities that rank among the best globally. Healthcare is affordable and of excellent quality, ensuring residents feel secure about their well-being.

Safety is another hallmark of life in New Zealand, as it is consistently ranked among the safest nations in the world. The nation’s inclusive and welcoming culture means newcomers are embraced and quickly integrated into vibrant, diverse communities. Its modern infrastructure has efficient public services and excellent connectivity, making it a comfortable place to live and work. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, New Zealand also leads in environmental preservation, allowing residents to enjoy unspoiled surroundings for generations to come.

Requirements of the New Zealand Active Investor Plus Visa Program

The New Zealand Active Investor Plus Visa is designed for high-net-worth individuals who want to contribute to the country’s economy while gaining residency. To qualify, applicants must meet several key criteria that ensure their commitment and alignment with New Zealand’s economic goals.

The program requires a significant financial investment in acceptable sectors, with funds allocated toward growth-oriented industries, businesses, or projects that foster sustainable economic development. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate their ability to integrate into New Zealand society through physical presence and adherence to health and character standards.

Key requirements for the visa include:

  • Investment Threshold: Applicants must invest between USD 2.9 million (NZD 5 million) and USD 8.7 million (NZD 15 million) in approved New Zealand-based investments. The amounts depend on the chosen investment as options are weighted differently.
  • Investment Period: The funds must remain in place for at least 48 months to qualify under the program.
  • Residency Requirement: Applicants are required to spend a minimum of 117 days in New Zealand during the four-year investment period, ensuring active engagement with the country.
  • English Language Proficiency: Proof of English proficiency through a recognized test or equivalent qualification is necessary.
  • Health Standards: A medical examination is required to confirm good health, ensuring applicants meet New Zealand’s residency standards.
  • Character Requirements: Police clearance certificates from all countries of residence are mandatory to establish a clean criminal record.

These requirements safeguard the integrity of the program and ensure that investors actively contribute to the local economy and integrate into the broader community. By meeting these criteria, applicants can ensure they are ready to apply for New Zealand residency and citizenship.

Auckland city view at dusk with the lights of the city shining is another place you can live with the New Zealand Active Investor Plus Visa

Applying for New Zealand Residence by Investment

Applying for residence through the New Zealand Active Investor Plus Visa program involves a structured process that requires careful planning and attention to detail. The pathway is designed to ensure that applicants meet all requirements while contributing positively to the country’s economy. Following the steps systematically will increase the likelihood of a successful application and smooth transition to residency.

1. Research and Preparation

Begin by familiarizing yourself with the visa’s requirements, including the minimum investment amount, eligible investment types, and residency obligations. Engaging a licensed immigration advisor or investment specialist is highly recommended to ensure compliance with legal and procedural requirements.

2. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

The process starts with filing an Expression of Interest (EOI) to Immigration New Zealand. This document outlines your intent to apply and demonstrates that you meet the basic eligibility criteria, including financial capacity and character requirements.

3. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

If your EOI is approved, Immigration New Zealand will issue an Invitation to Apply (ITA). This step formally initiates the application process, requiring you to gather and submit detailed supporting documentation.

4. Submit Documentation

Collect and prepare all required documents, such as proof of investment funds, English proficiency, police clearance certificates, and health reports. Ensure accuracy and completeness, as any discrepancies may delay processing. Submit the completed application along with the requisite fees.

5. Make the Investment

Upon receiving preliminary approval, you must transfer the investment funds into one or more eligible New Zealand projects or sectors within the designated time frame.

6. Visa Issuance and Residency Compliance

Once the investment is verified, your visa will be issued. From there, you must meet the residency requirement of spending at least 117 days in New Zealand over a four-year period to maintain your status.

By following these steps, applicants can effectively navigate the process and secure their place in one of the most desirable countries for investors and families alike.

Mt Cook National Park - Hooker Valley trail with a bridge crossing a river and Mt Cook in the background on a bright sunny day

What is an Acceptable Investment for the Active Investor Plus Visa

The New Zealand Active Investor Plus Visa program is structured to ensure that applicants’ investments significantly contribute to the country’s economy. Acceptable investments must align with New Zealand’s economic priorities and be channeled into growth-focused ventures. These investments are designed to foster innovation, job creation, and long-term sustainability.

Here are the key categories of acceptable investments:

  • Equity Investments: Applicants can invest in equity in New Zealand companies, particularly in industries that drive economic growth, such as technology, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing.
  • Public and Private Funds: Contributions to New Zealand-based managed funds, including private equity and venture capital funds, are acceptable. These funds must primarily target local businesses and align with national development goals.
  • Philanthropic Contributions: Under the program, investments in approved charitable projects that address critical social or environmental needs are considered acceptable. This allows investors to make a positive societal impact while meeting visa requirements.
  • Real Estate Development: Large-scale residential or commercial real estate projects are eligible, provided they contribute to New Zealand’s housing or infrastructure needs. Speculative real estate investments are excluded, such as buying existing residential properties for rental income.

Each investment type carries a specific weighting towards the USD 2.9 million (NZD $15 million) investment threshold:

  • Direct Investments: Weighted at 3x (e.g., NZD $5 million counts as NZD $15 million).
  • Managed Funds: Weighted at 2x.
  • Listed Equities and Philanthropy: Weighted at 1x.

This weighting system encourages investments that more directly contribute to New Zealand’s economic growth.

It’s important to note that property investments are generally not acceptable under this visa. However, investments in exchange-traded funds or managed funds that hold up to 20% of their total assets in the property sector may be permitted.

Benefits of New Zealand Residence by Investment

Investing in New Zealand not only secures residency but also brings a range of tangible benefits. It offers access to one of the most stable economies in the world, ensuring a secure environment for personal and professional growth. Residency allows investors and their families to enjoy the country’s exceptional healthcare and education systems. New Zealand’s strong legal framework and transparent government provide international investors with a sense of safety and trust.

The program also opens pathways to permanent residency and eventually citizenship, offering the freedom to live, work, and study in New Zealand indefinitely. Residency status provides visa-free travel to numerous countries, enhancing global mobility for investors and their families. New Zealand’s investment climate also encourages contributions to innovative sectors, such as technology and sustainability, aligning personal financial growth with national economic progress.

Acquiring Citizenship After the New Zealand Active Investor Plus Visa

Achieving citizenship in New Zealand is a multi-step process that begins with securing residency through the Active Investor Plus Visa. After meeting all the visa conditions, including maintaining the investment for four years and fulfilling the physical presence requirement of 117 days, investors can apply for permanent residency.

Permanent residents must demonstrate a genuine commitment to New Zealand, including participating in its social and economic fabric. After holding permanent residency for at least five years, individuals become eligible to apply for citizenship. The application involves passing a character test, demonstrating continued ties to the country, and attending a citizenship interview.

Once citizenship is granted, individuals gain the full rights and privileges of a New Zealand citizen, including the ability to travel visa-free to numerous countries and the opportunity to participate in democratic processes. This pathway ensures long-term security and enables investors and their families to integrate fully into New Zealand’s society.

  Aerial view of Bay of Plenty with the turquoise water and white sand beach meets beautiful homes where you could live with the New Zealand Active Investor Plus Visa

Comparing the New Zealand Active Investor Plus Program to Other Countries

Greece Residency by Investment

Greece’s residency program offers a straightforward path through real estate investment. Applicants must commit a minimum of USD 260,000 (EUR 250,000) in property purchases, making it one of the most accessible programs in terms of financial requirements. This investment grants residency rights for up to five years, with renewals available as long as the property is retained. Greece does not impose any physical presence requirement, making it attractive to those seeking flexibility without relocation.

Residency in Greece allows visa-free travel across the Schengen Area, providing significant mobility throughout Europe. However, the program primarily focuses on real estate investments, limiting opportunities for diversification compared to New Zealand’s broader investment options. New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus Visa encourages investments in innovative industries, private equity, and philanthropic ventures, aligning with economic growth and sustainability.

While Greece offers a rich cultural heritage, mild Mediterranean climate, and access to European markets, it does not match New Zealand’s overall lifestyle benefits. New Zealand combines economic stability, world-class healthcare, and education with unmatched natural beauty. Despite its higher financial threshold and residency obligations, New Zealand’s program may be the better choice for investors seeking a more diverse portfolio or long-term citizenship options.

Portugal Residency by Investment

Portugal’s Golden Visa program is among the most popular in Europe. It requires a minimum investment of USD 260,000 (EUR 250,000). While no longer allowing real estate as an investment option, the program allows contributions to research, cultural preservation, or small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as well as capital transfer and job creation. The visa offers significant mobility benefits, granting access to the Schengen Area and a pathway to Portuguese citizenship after five years.

Portugal’s program has garnered attention for its flexibility, requiring only seven days of physical presence annually. This appeals to investors who want to maintain ties to their home country while securing EU residency. However, New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus Visa stands out for its focus on high-impact investments and integration into the community. The New Zealand program’s residency requirement of 117 days over four years ensures a deeper connection to the country.

While Portugal offers a vibrant culture, mild climate, and access to European markets, it cannot rival New Zealand’s superior safety, modern infrastructure, and renowned quality of life. New Zealand provides an unmatched balance for investors prioritizing a blend of economic opportunity, lifestyle, and family benefits.

USA Residency by Investment

The USA’s EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program requires a minimum investment of USD 800,000 in targeted employment areas (TEAs) or USD 1.05 million elsewhere. Investments must create at least ten full-time jobs for US workers, making this program labor-focused. The EB-5 program grants conditional green cards for two years, followed by permanent residency upon meeting job creation requirements.

The program appeals to investors seeking access to the vast American market and diverse economic opportunities. However, it involves significant bureaucratic complexities, longer processing times, and stricter compliance measures. In comparison, New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus Visa provides a smoother application process, with investments directed toward high-growth sectors and sustainable development projects.

While the USA offers unparalleled economic opportunities, it cannot compete with New Zealand’s peaceful environment, superior safety, and high quality of life. The American lifestyle often comes with higher stress levels, whereas New Zealand provides a balanced, family-friendly environment. For investors prioritizing a harmonious blend of financial growth, community integration, and personal well-being, New Zealand’s program offers advantages that the USA’s EB-5 program cannot match despite its lower investment threshold.

Why New Zealand Stands Out for Investors

New Zealand offers investors an unparalleled opportunity to achieve more than financial gains. Its Active Investor Plus Visa provides a gateway to residency and fosters meaningful connections to a country celebrated for its balance of natural beauty, modern infrastructure, and cultural inclusivity. Investors can immerse themselves in a society prioritizing sustainability, innovation, and community well-being.

Choosing New Zealand is about securing a future where personal and professional aspirations can flourish in harmony. Whether it’s through contributing to groundbreaking industries, enjoying access to top-tier healthcare and education, or embracing a safe, serene lifestyle, this program provides a platform for a transformative experience. For those who value lifestyle, New Zealand’s residency by investment program is more than a pathway—it’s a destination for building a legacy in a truly remarkable country.

 

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Author:
Rihab Saad

Managing Director
Next Generation Equity

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