New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus Visa presents a compelling pathway for high-net-worth individuals seeking to gain residence by making substantial investments in the country’s economy. At Immigration Chambers, we understand the intricacies of this visa category and offer expert guidance to streamline the process. Below, we provide an in-depth overview of qualifying investment types under this visa, to ensure you meet Immigration New Zealand’s strict criteria and maximize your eligibility.

Overview of the Active Investor Plus Visa Investment Requirements

To be eligible for the Active Investor Plus Visa, applicants must commit a minimum NZD $5 million in acceptable investments over a three-year investment period, with an additional fourth year for maintenance. The exact investment threshold depends on the risk profile of the investment—higher-risk investments require a lower capital commitment, incentivizing active participation in New Zealand’s private sector.

1. Direct Investments into Private New Zealand Businesses

One of the most valued forms of investment under the Active Investor Plus Visa is direct investment into private businesses operating in New Zealand. These investments must:

• Be made into New Zealand-based, non-listed companies.

• Involve businesses that are viable, lawful, and commercially productive.

• Be equity-based, such as ordinary or preference shares (not debt instruments).

• Demonstrate a clear economic benefit to the country, including job creation, innovation, or productivity improvements.

Investing directly in a New Zealand business counts at a 3x weighting, meaning an investment of NZD $5 million will be considered NZD $15 million for visa eligibility purposes. This is the most efficient path to meet the investment requirement and is ideal for investors looking to take an active role in the New Zealand economy.

2. Investments in Managed Funds

Applicants may also invest in managed funds, which are professionally managed portfolios that invest in a diversified range of New Zealand companies. Acceptable managed funds must:

• Be registered with the Financial Markets Authority (FMA).

• Focus on investing in New Zealand assets such as listed equities, private equities, and venture capital.

• Not include funds with passive investment strategies that mirror an index.

These investments are counted at a 2x weighting, making them a favorable option for investors who prefer a more hands-off approach, while still contributing significantly to the national economy.

3. Investments in Listed Equities

Investments in New Zealand Stock Exchange (NZX) listed equities are also permitted, though with a 1x weighting. This means that to meet the investment threshold through listed equities alone, you must invest the full NZD $15 million. Acceptable listed equity investments must:

• Be on the NZX Main Board.

• Be active, publicly traded, and have a track record of compliance with listing requirements.

• Not include speculative or low-liquidity shares.

While listed equities offer the benefit of liquidity and transparency, they are considered lower-risk and thus require a higher capital contribution to meet visa conditions.

4. Philanthropic Donations (Limited Option)

A maximum of NZD $7.5 million or 50% of the total investment can be allocated to philanthropic causes. These contributions:

• Must be made to registered New Zealand charities.

• Should align with public interest sectors, such as education, environment, arts, or social services.

• Are not eligible for weighting multipliers, and are calculated on a 1:1 basis.

Philanthropic donations can be included to supplement other investments, but cannot be the sole basis for meeting the visa’s financial criteria.

5. Prohibited and Non-Qualifying Investments

It is crucial to avoid investments that do not qualify under the Active Investor Plus Visa framework. These include:

• Residential property (direct or indirect investments).

• Commercial property, unless part of a diversified managed fund.

• Offshore investments, or any investments not focused on New Zealand’s economy.

• Term deposits, bonds, or other debt-based instruments.

• Passive index funds, even if New Zealand-based.

Engaging in non-qualifying investments may result in visa rejection or breach of compliance obligations, leading to serious immigration consequences.

Check this out: FAQs: Changes to the Active Investor Plus Visa Settings

How Weighting Impacts Your Investment Strategy

The investment weighting system is a unique feature of the Active Investor Plus Visa that rewards higher-risk, economically beneficial investments. Here's how it works: