New Zealand’s Active Investor Visa Brings $25M in Two Months

New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus Visa has generated $25 million NZD in confirmed investments just two months after launch, with $1 billion more in the pipeline, according to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.

The program, relaunched in April 2025, replaces a previously underperforming framework that saw only 35 applications over two years.

Authorities attribute the early momentum to structural changes, including the removal of complex multipliers and language testing, and the introduction of clear investment categories.

Investors can now choose between:

• A Growth track: $5 million in higher-risk investments over 3 years with a 21-day annual stay.
• A Balanced track: $10 million across broader assets including bonds and property, with a 105-day annual stay.

American Investors Lead Early Demand

U.S. investors are leading participation, submitting 68 of the 182 applications received so far under the new structure. China follows, with 21 applications, while interest from Germany, Hong Kong, and Russia is more limited.

Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters signalled a more flexible stance, noting that housing remains part of broader economic engagement.

With 80 approvals already issued in principle and funds already transferring, authorities are now watching for a broader wave of capital inflows.