New Zealand is rolling out a revamped investor visa program, aiming to attract wealthy individuals and boost foreign investment. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced the changes this afternoon, signalling a shift towards a more welcoming approach to overseas capital.
The move comes after the previous iteration of the “golden visa” scheme, the Active Investor Plus visa, saw a significantly low uptake.
Active Investor Plus Visa
The Active Investor Plus visa is aimed at attracting wealthy foreign investors. It offered a path to residency through substantial investments. However, it was deemed too complex and has been replaced by two new categories, which encourage direct investment in New Zealand businesses.
New Investor Visa Categories Effective from April 1
Starting April 1, 2025, the New Zealand government will introduce two simplified investor visa categories to encourage direct investment in local businesses. These categories are:
The Growth Category
The Growth category focuses on higher-risk investments, specifically encouraging direct investment in New Zealand businesses. It requires a minimum investment of $5 million for a minimum period of three years. This option caters to investors seeking high-growth potential and direct involvement in the local economy.
The Balanced Category
This category offers a more diversified approach, allowing investors to choose from a range of lower-risk investments. It requires a minimum investment of $10 million over five years. This option provides a more conservative investment pathway for those seeking stability and long-term engagement.
Why the Changes?
The former Active Investor Plus visa, introduced in July 2022 by the Labour government, saw limited success. According to Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis, investors contributed only NZD 70 million under this scheme, a stark contrast to the NZD 2.2 billion invested in the two years before COVID-19.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon emphasized the need to remove investment barriers, stating: “For too long, New Zealand has discouraged foreign investment. We are now modernizing our visa settings to attract billions of dollars in global capital.”
Key Reforms to Attract Investors
1. Expanded Investment Options – A broader range of investments will be considered eligible under the new visa scheme.
2. No English Language Requirement – The government will remove the English language mandate to ease the application process.
3. Flexibility for Global Investors – The new categories offer simpler and more flexible pathways for investors to settle in New Zealand.
A Global Hub for Investment and Innovation
Immigration Minister Erica Stanford highlighted the need to position New Zealand as a preferred destination for investors looking for stability and growth opportunities.
“Capital is highly mobile, and we want to ensure that New Zealand is seen as a desirable place for investors to live, work, and contribute to the economy,” she said.
In addition to the investor visa overhaul, the government is also working on initiatives to attract digital nomads and remote workers, reinforcing its commitment to economic growth through global talent and investment.
Conclusion
With these significant changes, New Zealand is making a strong push to attract international investors by simplifying visa requirements and offering more flexible investment options. By removing barriers and expanding eligible investment avenues, the country hopes to regain its status as a lucrative destination for global capital.
Foreign investors looking for a stable and business-friendly environment may find these new visa categories an appealing pathway to residency in New Zealand.
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