Eligibility Checklist for NZ’s Active Investor Plus Visa: Do You Qualify?

New Zealand has become a premier destination for global investors who seek stability, lifestyle benefits, and rewarding opportunities. The Active Investor Plus Visa is designed to attract high-value investors who are willing to contribute strategically to the country’s economy. If you are considering this visa, understanding the eligibility checklist is critical to determining whether you qualify.

In this guide, we provide a comprehensive breakdown of the requirements, investment pathways, and compliance expectations of Active Investor Plus Visa so you can confidently evaluate your suitability for this immigration route.

Understanding the Active Investor Plus Visa

The Active Investor Plus Visa allows eligible investors to live, work, and study in New Zealand while actively participating in the local economy. Unlike other investor visas, this category emphasizes active investments such as direct company shares, growth-oriented funds, and other productive ventures, rather than passive investments like government bonds.

Minimum Investment Thresholds

The visa requires a minimum NZD $15 million investment, but this is not a one-size-fits-all figure. The structure depends on the type of investment vehicle you choose:

• Direct Investments in Private Businesses: Weighted most favorably, requiring as little as NZD $5 million if fully allocated.

• Private Equity or Venture Capital Funds: Must be managed by approved New Zealand-based fund managers; weighting reduces the required amount to NZD $7.5 million.

• Listed Equities: Considered less active, thus requiring a full NZD $15 million.

• Philanthropic Contributions: Capped at 50% of the total investment requirement.

Applicants are expected to commit to these investments for at least 48 months.

AIP Visa Eligibility Checklist: Core Requirements

To qualify, applicants must meet a strict set of criteria. Below is the step-by-step checklist:

1. Investment Commitment

• Minimum of NZD $15 million, or the equivalent weighted combination.

• Investment must remain in New Zealand for the entire four-year visa term.

• Must invest in eligible categories only, excluding residential property and speculative ventures.

2. English Language Proficiency

• Demonstrated English ability for both the principal applicant and eligible family members.

• Evidence may include an IELTS score of 5.0 or equivalent.

3. Age Restrictions

• There is no upper age limit, making this visa more accessible than other categories.

4. Health Requirements

• All applicants, including dependents, must meet New Zealand’s health standards.

• A medical certificate and chest X-ray may be required to confirm good health.

5. Character Requirements

• Police certificates from countries of residence are mandatory.

• Applicants must prove they are of good character and free of criminal convictions.

6. Residency Commitment

• A minimum of 117 days in New Zealand over four years is required.

• Time can be spread flexibly across the visa term but must total nearly one month per year on average.

7. Family Members

• You may include your spouse/partner and dependent children up to the age of 24 years.

• Family members must meet health and character requirements.

Investment Options in Detail

Direct Investments

The most highly rewarded option. Examples include:

• Ownership stakes in New Zealand private companies.

• Establishing new businesses with job creation potential.

• Expanding existing operations into global markets.

Funds and Private Equity

Approved investment funds provide exposure to high-growth sectors. Requirements include:

• Funds must be managed by licensed providers in New Zealand.

• Investments may span technology, infrastructure, biotech, and sustainability-driven industries.

Listed Equities

• Investments in companies listed on the New Zealand Stock Exchange (NZX).

• Considered less impactful, hence the full $15 million is required.

Philanthropy

• Charitable donations allowed, but capped at 50% of the total investment.

• Must support registered New Zealand charities that create significant community benefits.

Also read: Active Investor Plus Visa NZ: How Growth and Balanced Options Differ

AIP Visa Application Process

1. Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit your intention and provide details of your proposed investment.

2. Invitation to Apply: If selected, you will be invited to make a full application.

3. Application Submission: Provide supporting documents: proof of funds, source of wealth, business background, and English ability.

4. Assessment by Immigration New Zealand (INZ): Detailed checks on your finances, background, and investment proposal.

5. Approval in Principle: Once approved, you must transfer funds into New Zealand within a specified timeframe.

6. Visa Grant: Residence visa issued once investments are verified.

7. Ongoing Compliance: Annual checks on investments, time spent in New Zealand, and adherence to visa conditions.

Key Benefits of the Active Investor Plus Visa

• Residence Flexibility: Live, work, and study freely in New Zealand.

• Pathway to Permanent Residency: After four years of compliant investment and residency commitment.

• Family Inclusion: Spouse and children included with access to local education and healthcare.

• Business Opportunities: Direct access to New Zealand’s innovation-driven economy.

• Lifestyle Advantages: A safe, stable country with high living standards and global connectivity.

Common Reasons for Application Rejection

Even well-prepared investors can face challenges. Frequent pitfalls include:

• Ineligible investment categories such as residential property speculation.

• Failure to provide clear evidence of source of wealth.

• Not meeting the English requirement.

• Insufficient time spent in New Zealand.

• Incomplete or incorrect documentation.

Compliance and Monitoring

Immigration New Zealand conducts regular checks to ensure compliance with:

• Investment value retention.

• Residency obligations.

• Eligible investment types.

A breach may result in cancellation of the visa or refusal of permanent residence.

Is the Active Investor Plus Visa Right for You?

This visa is best suited for:

• High-net-worth individuals seeking strategic investments.

• Entrepreneurs looking to expand businesses into New Zealand.

• Families desiring long-term residence in a stable, high-quality environment.

• Investors interested in supporting innovation, sustainability, and growth sectors.

Final Thoughts

The Active Investor Plus Visa presents a unique opportunity to align personal and business aspirations with New Zealand’s thriving economy. Meeting the eligibility checklist ensures your application stands strong and maximizes your chances of approval. By carefully structuring your investments and maintaining compliance, you open the door to permanent residency, world-class lifestyle benefits, and valuable business networks.

If you are ready to begin the process, ensure your investment strategy aligns with Immigration New Zealand’s approved categories and prepare all necessary documentation meticulously. This visa is not just about capital; it is about active participation in New Zealand’s future.

If you are seeking guidance for the Active Investor Plus Visa in New Zealand, Immigration Chambers is here to assist you every step of the way. Our expert team can help you assess eligibility, structure investments, and prepare a strong application. 

Contact our Immigration Lawyer New Zealand now for personalized advice and professional support to secure your visa successfully.