New Zealand Launches Golden Visa for Foreigners. New Zealand has officially introduced a new golden visa pathway known as the Business Investor Work Visa, designed to attract global investors, entrepreneurs, and business leaders. This new program provides a structured route to residency through direct investment in New Zealand’s business sector, making it one of the most accessible investment visas the country has ever offered.
With simplified investment options, family inclusion, and a faster route to residency, this visa is expected to draw significant interest from high-net-worth individuals worldwide.
What Is the New Zealand Golden Visa?
The New Zealand Golden Visa, formally called the Business Investor Work Visa, is a residency-by-investment program allowing foreign investors to live, work, and eventually secure permanent residency by investing in New Zealand businesses.
The government introduced this program to strengthen economic growth, fuel business innovation, and attract experienced entrepreneurs who can contribute to local industries.
This visa sits beside the existing Active Investor Plus Visa, but offers more flexible and lower investment entry requirements.
Investment Options Under the New Zealand Golden Visa
Applicants can choose between two investment tracks:
1. NZD 1 Million – Three-Year Path to Residency
- Minimum investment: NZD 1,000,000
- Residency timeline: 3 years
- Must actively participate in business operations
2. NZD 2 Million – One-Year Fast-Track Residency
- Minimum investment: NZD 2,000,000
- Residency timeline: 1 year
- Ideal for investors seeking expedited approval
Both options aim to attract serious investors who want to establish, purchase, or expand businesses inside New Zealand.
Eligibility Requirements for the Business Investor Work Visa
To qualify, applicants must meet strict financial and business criteria:
Minimum Capital for Investment
You must invest NZD 1–2 million, depending on the chosen track.
Personal Financial Requirement
Applicants need at least NZD 500,000 available to cover:
- Personal expenses
- Family expenses
- Settlement costs in New Zealand
Business Experience
Applicants must show:
- Ownership of a company generating at least NZD 1 million annual revenue, OR
- A business employing at least five full-time staff
This ensures New Zealand attracts individuals who can genuinely contribute to the economy.
Family Inclusion
You may include:
- Spouse or partner
- Dependent children
Prohibited Sectors
Investment cannot be made in:
- Gambling businesses
- Fast food chains
- Tobacco-related industries
These sectors are excluded due to national policy and public health priorities.
How This Visa Differs from New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus Visa
New Zealand already offers the Active Investor Plus Visa, but it requires significantly larger investments.
| Feature | Business Investor Work Visa (Golden Visa) | Active Investor Plus Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Investment | NZD 1–2 million | NZD 5–10 million |
| Residency Timeframe | 1–3 years | 3 years minimum |
| Business Participation | Active involvement | Investment-based |
| Family Inclusion | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Entrepreneurs, business owners | High-net-worth investors |
The new Golden Visa opens doors for a wider range of investors seeking more flexible entry requirements.
Why New Zealand Launched the Golden Visa Program
According to Immigration Minister Erica Stanford, the visa aims to attract international entrepreneurs who are ready to actively run or grow businesses in New Zealand.
Government goals include:
- Boosting local job creation
- Increasing innovation
- Encouraging long-term economic partnerships
- Strengthening global investment links
New Zealand also plans to roll out additional visa categories soon, including:
- Startup entrepreneur visa
- Digital nomad visa
These will support temporary stays, remote workers, and innovators looking for short-term or flexible residency options.
When Do Applications Open?
Applications for the New Zealand Golden Visa officially open on:
November 24, 2025
Interested applicants can begin preparing financial documents, proof of business experience, and investment plans ahead of time.
How to Apply for the Business Investor Work Visa
Here is the step-by-step application process for investors:
1. Prepare Financial Documents
- Proof of available investment funds
- Proof of NZD 500,000 settlement funds
- Bank statements
- Business ownership or revenue evidence
2. Submit Online Application
Applications must be completed through Immigration New Zealand’s official portal. Upload all required documents and pay the visa processing fee.
3. Provide Business Background Evidence
Documents may include:
- Company tax returns
- Financial statements
- Proof of employees
- Registration certificates
4. Investment Plan Review
Authorities will evaluate your proposed investment to ensure it fits within approved industries.
5. Visa Approval & Establishment
Once approved, you will:
- Enter New Zealand
- Execute your investment
- Actively participate in the business
6. Residency Eligibility
After fulfilling your investment and residency period (1 or 3 years), you may apply for New Zealand residency.
Benefits of the New Zealand Golden Visa
Fast Residency Pathway
With the NZD 2 million option, residency is possible in just one year.
Family Inclusion
Your spouse and dependent children can live, study, and work in New Zealand.
Strong Economy & Safe Environment
New Zealand is globally recognized for:
- High quality of life
- Low corruption
- Stable political environment
- World-class education and healthcare
Opportunity to Run or Grow a Business
Investors can:
- Launch startups
- Purchase existing businesses
- Partner with local companies
Pathway to Permanent Residency
Long-term settlement is possible after meeting visa conditions.
FAQs New Zealand Golden Visa
1. What is the minimum investment for the New Zealand Golden Visa?
The minimum investment is NZD 1 million for a three-year residency path or NZD 2 million for a one-year fast-track option.
2. Can I include my family in the visa?
Yes. Spouses and dependent children can be added to your application.
3. Are there industries where investment is not allowed?
Yes. Investments in gambling, fast food, and tobacco industries are strictly prohibited.
4. What is the difference between the Golden Visa and the Active Investor Plus Visa?
The Active Investor Plus visa requires NZD 5–10 million, while the Golden Visa starts at NZD 1 million with more flexible options.
5. Do I need business experience?
Yes. You must show proof of running a business with NZD 1 million revenue or managing five full-time staff.
6. When can I apply for the Golden Visa?
Applications begin on November 24, 2025.
7. Can this visa lead to permanent residency?
Yes. Upon fulfilling the investment and stay requirements, investors can transition to permanent residency.
8. Is this visa suitable for startup founders?
Yes, especially since New Zealand is planning additional pathways for entrepreneurs and digital nomads.
Conclusion
The New Zealand Golden Visa (Business Investor Work Visa) is a groundbreaking opportunity for global investors seeking residency through business investment. With flexible investment options, eligibility for family members, and a clear path to permanent residency, this program is expected to attract thousands of entrepreneurs worldwide.
