How to Secure an Investor or Business Visa in New Zealand: A Guide for High Net‑Worth Applicants

Why choose New Zealand for investor or business migration?

New Zealand offers attractive visa pathways for investors and businesspeople looking to relocate through capital investment or business management. At Immigration Trust, we regularly help high net‑worth clients who are ready to move their funds and expertise to New Zealand and want a clear, fast path to residence.

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What investor and business visas are available?

Active Investor Plus Visa
This visa is ideal if you can invest NZD $5–15 million and want a resident visa from day one. It allows investment in approved assets like direct investments, equities, and managed funds. You can include your partner and dependent children.

Business Investor Visas
If you're looking to run or acquire a business in New Zealand:

• Business Investor Work Visa: lets you invest in and operate a business for 4 years, then apply for residence.
• Business Investor Resident Visa: once the business is successfully run and the investment is maintained, you may apply for residence — some paths allow this after just 12 months with higher investment.

Key differences: Investor Plus vs Business Investor

• Active Investor Plus: Higher investment, lower time commitment in day‑to‑day operations.
• Business Investor: Lower capital required, but you must actively manage a business and meet time-in-NZ and job creation requirements.

What you need to consider

• Investment thresholds: Know whether your capital qualifies and whether the investment type is eligible.
• Time in NZ: Especially for business investor routes, expect to spend significant time in New Zealand.
• Excluded sectors: Some industries (e.g. gambling, tobacco, fast food) may not qualify.
• Operational requirements: Proof of active business management and potential job creation is crucial.

Why work with an immigration advisor?
We help you understand whether you qualify, choose the best visa pathway, and ensure every document is right the first time. With your capital and our experience, we can reduce risk, save time, and help you act decisively.

Disclaimer: This content is intended as a general guide only and does not constitute immigration advice. For personalised advice, please book a consultation with Immigration Trust.

FAQ: Investor & Business Visas for NZ
Q: Can I include my family in my visa application?
A: Yes, both visa pathways allow partners and dependent children to be included.

Q: Can I apply for the Active Investor Plus Visa if I’m older than 55?
A: Yes — there is no age limit under the current policy.

Q: How soon can I apply for residence after investing in a business?
A: If you invest NZD $2 million or more in an existing business and meet all criteria, you may be eligible to apply for residence in as little as 12 months.

​Q: Are all business types accepted?
A: No — certain sectors such as gambling, tobacco, and fast food chains are typically excluded.
Source: INZ website

​Take the next step with Immigration Trust
If you’re ready to invest or run a business in New Zealand and want expert guidance, we’re here to help. We’ll assess your situation, recommend the best visa pathway, and support you through every step.

Book an appointment

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Business Investor Visa with Medical or Character Issue?

Business Investor Visa Assessment

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