New Zealand Announces NZ$1M Investor Visa

New Zealand will introduce a new Business Investor Visa (BIV) in November 2025, replacing the country’s Entrepreneur Work Visa.

The new visa targets experienced investors prepared to commit capital into established businesses.

Investment Pathways

The Business Investor Visa offers two routes:

• NZ$1 million investment – grants temporary residence with a three-year route to permanent residency.
• NZ$2 million investment – grants temporary residence with a fast-track to permanent residency within 12 months.

Investment Requirements

Applicants must either purchase an existing business outright or acquire at least a 25% stake in a company employing a minimum of five full-time staff.

Certain sectors are excluded, including convenience stores, fast food outlets, franchised businesses, and adult entertainment.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, applicants must:

• Be 55 years or younger
• Demonstrate relevant business experience
• Meet English language requirements
• Hold at least NZ$500,000 in additional settlement funds
• Spend a minimum of 184 days each year in New Zealand to maintain residency

The application fee is NZ$12,380, which includes immigration levies. Family members, including partners and dependent children, can be included in the application and receive residence rights.

Transition and Outlook

The outgoing Entrepreneur Work Visa will no longer accept new applicants. Current holders will retain pathways to permanent residence, and pending applications will be processed under existing rules.

Immigration New Zealand will release detailed guidance on the Business Investor Visa in October 2025.

The government expects between 100 and 150 applicants in the first year, positioning the program as part of a wider refresh of New Zealand’s business immigration settings.