Starting April 1, 2025, New Zealand will implement significant changes to the Active Investor Plus Visa to attract high-value investors, simplify the application process, and encourage more active investments. These updates are designed to make New Zealand a more appealing destination for investors by offering lower-risk investment options and streamlined immigration requirements.
Key Changes to the Investor Visa
New Zealand’s revised Active Investor Plus Visa will introduce two simplified investment categories:
- Growth Category – Requires a minimum investment of NZD 5 million.
- Balanced Category – Requires a minimum investment of NZD 10 million.
The Balanced category now allows a broader range of investments, including:
- Bonds and property investments
- New residential developments
- New or existing commercial and industrial developments
Simplified Immigration Requirements
To encourage active investments, the government has introduced relaxed immigration conditions:
- Investors opting for approved active investments may now spend less time in NZ.
- The investment timeline is now shorter – visa holders must complete investments within six months of approval. A six-month extension may be granted if needed.
- The English language requirement is removed, making the visa more accessible to a wider range of investors.
Other Important Updates
The New Zealand government has also introduced additional changes to enhance flexibility:
- Removal of investment caps – Investors can place higher amounts without restrictions.
- New investment payment rule – The full investment amount must be paid to qualify for a resident visa.
- On-call investments option – Applicants can temporarily hold funds in acceptable assets (bonds, term deposits, listed equities, bank accounts) for up to six months before transferring them to managed funds.
- Newborn children of investors will now be eligible for a Dependent Child Resident Visa.
What This Means for Investors
These updates make investing in New Zealand more attractive and less risky while providing greater flexibility. Investors can continue applying through the existing online application system, which will be updated to reflect these changes. Further details will be announced to clarify the implementation process.
How RBS Immigration Can Help
At RBS Immigration, we specialize in guiding investors through the New Zealand Active Investor Plus Visa process. Our expert team can help you:
- Understand the new investment categories and eligibility criteria.
- Guide you to navigate the application and documentation processes.
- Understand the investment process and select the appropriate investment option.
- Ensure compliance with New Zealand’s immigration laws for a smooth transition.
With these relaxed rules, now is the perfect time to invest in New Zealand. Whether you’re looking to expand your business, invest in property, or secure residency, the Active Investor Plus Visa offers a unique opportunity.
Contact RBS Immigration today for expert guidance on securing your New Zealand Investor Visa!