New Zealand Business Investor Visa 2025: Complete Guide

The New Zealand Business Investor Visa is a new immigration pathway designed to attract high-value investors who are committed to growing New Zealand’s economy by actively managing businesses. This visa category replaces the Entrepreneur Work Visa, creating fresh opportunities for global investors seeking residency while contributing to local business development.

What Is the New Zealand Business Investor Visa?

The New Zealand Business Investor Visa is a work-to-residence pathway for experienced investors who wish to invest in and operate businesses in New Zealand. Applications for this visa open in November 2025 and provide two main investment options:

Option 1: NZD $1 Million Investment

• Invest NZD $1 million in an existing business.

• Gain a residence pathway after 3 years of operating the business.

Option 2: NZD $2 Million Investment

• Invest NZD $2 million in an existing business.

• Access a fast-track residence pathway in just 12 months.

Both options allow investors to purchase a business outright or acquire a minimum 25% ownership stake, provided the required investment thresholds are met.

Key Features of the Business Investor Visa New Zealand

• Visa Duration: Up to 4 years.

• Application Fee: NZD $12,380 (including the immigration levy).

• Residency Pathway: Leads to Business Investor Resident Visa eligibility.

• Family Inclusion: Include your partner and dependent children.

• Ownership Flexibility: Choose between full purchase or partial ownership (minimum 25%).

Eligibility Criteria for New Zealand Business Investor Visa

To qualify for the Business Investor Visa New Zealand, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Investment Threshold:

• NZD $1 million for the 3-year pathway, or

• NZD $2 million for the 12-month fast-track.

Settlement Funds:

• Minimum NZD $500,000 for living expenses.

Age Limit:

• Must be 55 years or younger at the time of application.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS 5.0 or equivalent.

Health & Character:

• Meet New Zealand’s health and character standards.

Business Experience:

• Proven ability in managing or operating businesses.

Employment Requirement:

• The business must employ at least 5 full-time staff members.

Unacceptable Business Investments

The following business types are not eligible under the New Zealand Business Investor Visa:

• Drop-shipping businesses

• Gambling operations

• Tobacco or nicotine product manufacturing (including vaping)

• Adult entertainment industry

• Convenience stores and discount shops (e.g., NZD $2 shops)

• Immigration advisory firms or businesses purchased from a Licensed Immigration Adviser

• Fast food outlets and franchised businesses

• Home-based businesses operating solely from a residential address

Entrepreneur Work Visa Closure

The Entrepreneur Work Visa is now closed for new applications. Here’s what current applicants and visa holders need to know:

• Existing Applications: Processed under the old rules.

• Withdrawals: No refunds for fees or levies if an application is withdrawn.

• Current Holders: Still eligible to apply for Entrepreneur Resident Visa or renew the Entrepreneur Work Visa to maintain residency eligibility.

New Zealand Business Investor Visa vs Active Investor Plus Visa

The New Zealand Business Investor Visa complements the Active Investor Plus Visa, which was updated in April 2025. Both visas aim to attract international investment and business expertise. Immigration New Zealand will release a detailed comparison in October 2025.

Benefits of the Business Investor Visa New Zealand

• Fast Residency Pathway: Achieve residency in as little as 12 months for high-level investments.

• Flexible Investment Options: Full ownership or minimum 25% equity stake.

• Family Inclusion: Bring your partner and dependent children.

• Economic Growth Contribution: Helps create jobs and strengthen New Zealand’s economy.

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