Active Investor Plus Visa

Invest in New Zealand's Future, Secure Your Own

New Zealand's Active Investor Plus Visa offers a premium pathway to permanent residency for high-net-worth individuals and experienced investors who are ready to make a significant contribution to New Zealand's economic growth. This visa is designed to attract capital, skills, and global networks that directly benefit the New Zealand economy.

At ZFS NZ, we specialise in guiding discerning investors through this comprehensive resident visa process. We provide tailored advice and support to ensure your investment aligns with New Zealand's objectives and secures your future in Aotearoa.

The Revamped Active Investor Plus Visa: Two Tailored Pathways (Effective April 1, 2025)

The Active Investor Plus (AIP) Visa has been significantly updated to simplify investment categories and offer more flexibility, aiming to make New Zealand an even more attractive destination for international investors. There are now two distinct investment categories:

1. Growth Category

  • Minimum Investment: NZD $5 million

  • Investment Term: 3 years

  • Residency Requirement: At least 21 days in New Zealand over the 3-year investment period.

  • Acceptable Investments:

    • NZTE-approved managed funds: These funds must be focused on New Zealand growth businesses (e.g., venture capital, private equity, private credit).

    • Direct investments: In NZTE-approved New Zealand businesses (e.g., startups, businesses seeking expansion capital).

  • Focus: Designed for investors seeking direct, high-impact involvement in New Zealand's business ecosystem, willing to undertake higher risk for potentially higher returns.

2. Balanced Category

  • Minimum Investment: NZD $10 million

  • Investment Term: 5 years

  • Residency Requirement: At least 105 days in New Zealand over the 5-year investment period.

    • Residency Reduction: For every additional NZD $1 million invested in Growth-type assets above the NZD $10 million minimum, the residency requirement can be reduced by 14 days (down to a minimum of 63 days with a NZD $13 million investment).

  • Acceptable Investments: This category offers a broader range of options, allowing for diversification:

    • Bonds: New Zealand government, local government, or corporate bonds (traded on NZDX).

    • Listed Equities: Shares in companies listed on the NZX.

    • Property Development: New residential developments (increasing housing stock) or value-adding commercial/industrial developments. Pure residential property for personal use is generally not permitted.

    • Philanthropy: Donations to registered New Zealand charities with donee status.

    • Growth-type investments: Managed funds and direct investments as per the Growth category (these can be blended into a Balanced portfolio).

  • Focus: Best for investors seeking a diversified, potentially lower-risk portfolio with flexibility to include both traditional and growth-oriented assets.

General Eligibility Requirements for Both Categories

Beyond the investment specifics, all Active Investor Plus Visa applicants must meet general New Zealand immigration criteria:

  1. Fit and Proper Person.

  2. Legally Obtained Funds.

  3. Good Health & Character.

  4. No English Language Requirement.

The Application Process for the Active Investor Plus Visa

The process for the AIP Visa is generally structured:

  1. Expression of Interest (EOI).

  2. Invitation to Apply (ITA).

  3. Investment & Documentation.

  4. Visa Grant.

  5. Maintain Investment & Residency.

Benefits of the Active Investor Plus Visa

  • Direct Path to Residence.

  • Family Inclusion.

  • No English Requirement.

  • Flexible Investment Options.

  • Reduced Residence Requirements.

  • Contribution to NZ Growth.

  • High Quality of Life.

  • Pathway to Permanent Residence.

  • Pathway to Citizenship.

How ZFS NZ Can Guide Your Investment Journey

The Active Investor Plus Visa, while offering a clear pathway, involves substantial financial commitments and complex immigration requirements. Our expertise is invaluable in navigating this process effectively. We provide:

  • Tailored Investment Strategy Advice.

  • Comprehensive Eligibility Assessment.

  • Funds Verification & Transfer.

  • NZTE/INZ Investment Alignment.

  • Application Preparation.

  • Liaison with INZ.

  • Ongoing Compliance.

Ready to make a strategic investment in New Zealand and secure a future for your family? Contact ZFS NZ today for a confidential consultation on the Active Investor Plus Visa. Let us lead your pathway to residency in New Zealand.