Gaining NZ residence under the Migrant Investor categories
The Migrant Investment categories, first announced by the New Zealand government in July 2009, replaced the Active Investor Policy.
For investors who want to gain residence in New Zealand, there are two options: Investor Plus (Investor 1 category) or Investor (Investor 2 category).
Do I qualify?
Investor Plus (Investor 1 Category)
Aside from usual health and character requirements, you must meet additional criteria to be eligible under this category. You must nominate funds and/or assets equivalent to at least NZ$10 million that will then be invested in New Zealand for a minimum of three years. You’ll also be asked to provide further evidence in connection with your funds and assets.
For applicants under the Investor Plus category, there are no age, business experience, settlement funds or English language competency requirements. However, successful applicants must spend at least 73 days in New Zealand in each of the last two years of the three-year investment period.
For further information about an investor visa and request contact from a Registered Immigration Adviser, please click here.
Investor (Investor 2 Category)
In order to be eligible in this category, you’ll need to provide evidence showing your investment and settlement funds and/or assets are owned or jointly by you and your partner and/or dependent children. You’ll also need to provide additional proof in connection with your intended investment funds.
If your application is successful, you’ll need to invest a minimum of NZ$1.5 million in an acceptable investment in New Zealand for a minimum of four years.
Applicants must:
• Be 65 years or younger
• Have a minimum of three years business experience
• Have at least $1 million in accessible settlement funds (transfer not required)
• Have an English speaking background, OR an IELTS test report with an overall band score of three or more, OR be a competent user of English
• Register your family members for pre-purchased ESOL tuition if they do not meet the above English language competency standards
• Spend 146 days in New Zealand in each of the last three years of the four-year investment period
• Meet INZ health and character requirements
For further information about the Investor 1 Category and to request contact from a Registered Immigration Adviser, please click here.
How do I apply?
Investor Plus (Investor 1 Category)
You’ll need to submit an Investor Plus application for residence form. A client manager will be made available to all Investor Plus applicants.
You’ll also need to provide evidence of your funds/assets.
Investor (Investor 2 category)
If you meet the requirements, you’ll need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) form, though you won’t be required to provide additional evidence with this. If you’re eligible, Immigration NZ will invite you to apply for residency.
You’ll also be asked to provide evidence of your business experience, which can include original or certified copies, and evidence of your funds/assets, including bank books and statements, details of mortgages, loans and other financial obligations, etc.
Get help with your business visa.