In a strategic shift to foster economic Growth and attract high-value investors, New Zealand has reformed its Active Investor Plus Visa scheme. This scheme adds two new investment streams, Growth and Balanced, with greater flexibility and investment options for prospective migrants. The reforms seek to facilitate investment, eliminate vestiges of constraint, and encourage active engagement in the New Zealand economy.

Overview of the Active Investor Plus Visa

The Active Investor Plus Visa is available to applicants ready to invest heavily in New Zealand’s economy. Residents gain residency and subsequently permanent residency through investment in qualifying assets. Existing program updates are signs that the government values investors who have the potential to have a welcome influence on economic Growth in the country.

Introduction of Two New Investment Classes

1. Growth Category

• Minimum Investment: NZD 5 million
• Investment Term: 3 years
• Residency Requirement: A minimum of 21 days in New Zealand during the investment term
• Investment Focus: Active investments, i.e., direct investments and managed funds

The growth category is for investors who want to be more involved in New Zealand’s economy. Through managed funds and direct investment, this category makes investors heavily involved in the country’s domestic businesses and industries.

2. Balanced Category

• Minimum Investment: NZD 10 million
• Investment Term: 5 years
• Residency Requirement: At least 105 days’ stay in New Zealand during the investment period
• Investment Type: Combination of investment types such as bonds, equities, and property developments

The balanced category is a diversified investment in which investors distribute money among asset classes. It is meant for investors who want a mixture of active and passive investments.

Enlarged Range of Eligible Investments

The new visa policy relaxes the criteria for qualifying investment, especially under the Balanced category. New types of investments added are:

• Bonds: State and corporate bonds
• Property Investments:
  • New housing developments are being introduced to the market, adding stock
  • New or established commercial or industrial projects with value addition, e.g., earthquake strengthening

The additions are intended to spur Growth in core sectors and meet infrastructure requirements.

Simplifications and Key Changes

Elimination of English Language Requirement

Applicants once had to have English language skills. This requirement has been eliminated, and the visa is more accessible to more investors.

Elimination of Investment Restrictions

Some investment classes were restricted, but these restrictions have been eliminated, giving investors more freedom to diversify investments across asset classes.

Addition of On-Call Investments

Investors can invest committed funds in short-term holding investments, such as term deposits or bonds, until they are invested in managed funds. This provides additional management flexibility for investment time horizons.

Category Switching Investment Flexibility

Applicants are given one switch between the Growth and Balanced categories to accommodate changing investment tastes or strategies.

Application Process and Existing Applicant Transition

Applicants or their representatives may apply on the current application form for the Active Investor Plus Visa, which has been revised to include the new categories. Applicants who applied before April 1, 2025, and whose residence has not yet been granted, may switch to the new visa arrangements by withdrawing their current application and reapplying under the new categories. The transition process can be accessed from Immigration New Zealand, and transitioning application fees will be waived.

Economic Contribution to New Zealand

The new visa system will attract high-value investment, drive economic Growth, and create jobs. By offering a liberal and broad range of investment opportunities, New Zealand positions itself as a preferred destination for foreign investors who want secure and rewarding opportunities.

QUESTION AND ANSWERS

Q1: What are the key differences between the Balanced and Growth categories?

A1: The growth category involves a minimum NZD 5 million investment within 3 years in actively managed investments, such as direct and managed funds. The residency requirement is only 21 days. The balanced category involves a minimum NZD 10 million investment for 5 years, and the investment can be a combination of investment options, such as bonds and property. One must reside in New Zealand for 105 days.

Q2: After applying, may I change from the Growth to the Balanced category?

A2: Yes, one can switch the investment category once within the duration of an application. This gives increased flexibility to switch investment plans as and when needed.

Q3: Will there be a language test requirement for the new scheme?

A3: No, the English language requirement has been eliminated since the visa scheme is being extended more broadly to more investors.

Q4: What are the appropriate property investments within the Balanced category?

A4: The appropriate investments are new residential dwelling constructions that increase the housing supply and new or refurbished commercial or industrial developments that create value, e.g., earthquake strengthening.

Q5: How soon must I invest my capital once my visa is approved?

A5: Investment must be finalised within 6 months from the date of approval-in-principle. Applicants can apply for a 6-month extension if necessary.

The New Zealand renewal of the Active Investor Plus Visa program demonstrates that it is serious about onboarding high-value investors and spurring economic Growth. By including the Growth and Balanced categories, eliminating the language prerequisites, and broadening the range of available investment opportunities, the country presents a less restrictive and more hospitable entry door for investors wishing to reside there. These measures aim to facilitate the establishment of New Zealand as an even more compelling centre of allure for foreign investment.