Attention Investors: New Zealand is Rolling Out the Welcome Mat!

New Zealand’s new Active Investor Plus visa, comes into effect on 1 April 2025. This new visa is designed to attract high-net-worth foreign investors to help drive economic growth in New Zealand. 

Key Features of the Active Investor Plus Visa:

Investment Requirements:

• Two new simplified Growth and Balanced investment categories.
• The Growth Category will require a $5 million investment in higher-risk investments, including direct investments in New Zealand businesses, for a minimum period of three years. Applicants will need spend at least three weeks in New Zealand.
• The Balanced Category will require a $10 million investment in mixed investments including lower risk investments, over five years. Applicants will need spend at least 7 weeks in New Zealand. 

Pathway to Residence:

• Successful applicants and their immediate family can apply for a New Zealand permanent resident visa at the end of the investment period provided they have met the minimum residency requirements.
• Applicants must continue to meet the existing health and character requirements.   

Flexibility:

• The visa allows flexibility in how the investment is allocated, giving investors the ability to choose from a variety of eligible investment avenues.
• The removal of the English language requirement aims to attract a broad range of investors.

Supporting New Zealand’s Economy:

• The visa supports local businesses and the wider economy by encouraging innovation, job creation and investment in areas of strategic importance.

As a trusted advisor to international clients, Haigh Lyon Lawyers can guide you through the key details and opportunities this visa offers. If you would like further information on how this could benefit you, please contact Shaun McGivern on [email protected] or Sayuree Ram on [email protected].