New Zealand is gearing up to introduce an exciting new immigration pathway — the Business Investor Work Visa, launching on 24 November 2025. Designed to attract experienced entrepreneurs and investors, this visa offers two clear investment options — NZD $1 million and NZD $2 million — each leading to work and eventual residence opportunities in the country.
What the Visa Offers
The new Business Investor Work Visa allows investors to live and work in New Zealand while managing or investing in a local business. The visa is valid for up to four years and includes the option to bring your partner and dependent children.
There are two investment tiers available:
- NZD $1 million investment – A three-year work-to-residence pathway.
- NZD $2 million investment – A fast-track route to residence in just 12 months.
Simply put, a larger investment means a quicker route to permanent residence.
Who Can Apply
Applicants must meet specific financial, professional, and personal criteria to qualify. The key requirements include:
- Investing in a business operating for at least five years.
- Committing a minimum of NZD $1 million or $2 million, depending on the chosen route.
- Holding at least NZD $500,000 in reserve funds to support personal and family living costs.
- Demonstrating proven business experience, such as managing a company with five or more full-time staff or generating at least NZD $1 million in annual revenue.
- Being 55 years old or younger.
- Meeting English language, health, and character standards.
Businesses That Don’t Qualify
Certain types of businesses are excluded from this visa category. These include:
- Convenience or discount retail stores
- Drop-shipping or fast food operations
- Gambling, tobacco, or vaping businesses
- Adult entertainment ventures
- Home-based or franchised businesses
- Immigration advisory services
The focus is on sustainable, growth-oriented companies that create meaningful employment and long-term economic value in New Zealand.
Pathway to Permanent Residence
Once visa holders meet all investment and operational conditions, they can apply for the Business Investor Resident Visa. To qualify, applicants must:
- Stay actively involved in the business
- Maintain their ownership share
- Support at least five full-time jobs
- Create one new job for a New Zealand citizen or resident, held for at least 12 months
- Prove that the business is financially sound
- Spend at least 184 days per year in New Zealand during the last three years
- Continue meeting health and character standards
This pathway rewards investors who are genuinely committed to building strong, job-creating businesses in New Zealand.
How It Differs from the Active Investor Plus Visa
The Active Investor Plus Visa remains an option for ultra-high-net-worth individuals who prefer larger-scale investments. It requires a minimum of:
- NZD $5 million (Growth category, 3 years), or
- NZD $10 million (Balanced category, 5 years).
The Growth category focuses on higher-risk investments such as managed funds or direct business projects, while the Balanced category allows for a mix of assets like equities, bonds, property developments, and philanthropy.
Why This Visa Matters
With the new Business Investor Work Visa, New Zealand is shifting focus toward active participation in the local economy. Instead of attracting passive investors, the government wants hands-on entrepreneurs who will grow businesses, create jobs, and contribute directly to the country’s long-term prosperity.
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