New Zealand’s Business Investor Visa: Your Pathway to Residency, Growth, and Opportunity

Are you an experienced business owner or investor dreaming of living in New Zealand? The new Business Investor Visa might be your perfect pathway. Launched for applications in November 2025, this innovative visa program is designed to attract global talent and investment—giving you and your family the opportunity to settle, thrive, and succeed in a vibrant, future-focused country.

What Is the Business Investor Visa?

The Business Investor Visa is New Zealand’s latest immigration initiative, tailored for successful entrepreneurs and investors who want to actively manage and grow established businesses within the country. This new pathway replaces the previous Entrepreneur Work Visa, with clearer rules, more attractive residency options, and a strong focus on genuine business growth.

Key Benefits at a Glance

• Fast, flexible residency options linked to real business investment
• Pathway for you, your partner, and dependent children
• Access to New Zealand’s stable economy and world-class lifestyle
• Expert support from P&H Partners at every step

Investment Pathways: Two Tracks to Residency

The Business Investor Visa offers two clear investment options, each leading to a pathway for New Zealand residency:

1. Standard Pathway – NZ$1 Million Investment:
Invest at least NZ$1 million in an existing, eligible New Zealand business and gain a three-year work-to-residence pathway.

2. Fast-Track Pathway – NZ$2 Million Investment:
For those looking for quicker settlement, invest NZ$2 million to qualify for a 12-month residence fast-track.

You can purchase a business outright or secure at least 25% ownership—provided you meet the minimum investment. In both cases, applicants must play an active, hands-on role in managing the business.

Who Can Apply? Key Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, you need to meet these core requirements:

• Age: 55 years or younger
• English Language: IELTS 5.0 (or equivalent)
• Settlement Funds: At least NZ$500,000 to support yourself and your family while establishing your business
• Business Experience: Demonstrate proven business ownership or managerial expertise
• Health & Character: Meet New Zealand’s standard visa requirements

Business Requirements

Your investment must be in an established New Zealand business that:

• Has operated for at least five years
• Employs a minimum of five full-time staff
• Meets set financial and compliance standards

Where Can You Invest?

Eligible investments include:

• Existing New Zealand businesses with at least five years of operation
• Businesses employing five or more full-time local staff
• Sectors that create jobs and foster economic growth
• Only compliant businesses in approved industries (sectors like gambling, tobacco, drop-shipping, franchises, fast food outlets, and home-based enterprises are specifically excluded)

What’s Not Allowed?

Certain business types do not qualify under this visa:

• Drop-shipping ventures
• Gambling, tobacco, or vaping businesses
• Adult entertainment
• Corner stores, discount/value stores, franchises, fast food, and home-based businesses
• Immigration advisory firms

The Application Process in 5 Steps

1. Check Eligibility – Make sure you meet age, experience, language, and fund criteria.
2. Choose Your Investment – Select an eligible established business.
3. Apply Online – Submit the complete application and supporting documents.
4. Processing – Immigration New Zealand verifies your background, business, and investment.
5. Approval & Move – Upon approval, finalize your investment and relocate with your family to New Zealand.

Costs, Duration, and Family Benefits

• Visa Duration: Up to four years
• Application Fee & Levy: NZ$12,380
• Family: Your partner and dependent children are included in the application
• Pathway to Permanent Residence: Meet requirements and you can apply for the Business Investor Resident Visa—making New Zealand your permanent home

Why Choose P&H Partners?

New Zealand offers more than just a beautiful country; it’s a place to build your legacy, enjoy a secure lifestyle, and watch your family flourish. With P&H Partners, you get personalized guidance, transparent answers, and end-to-end support, so you can move ahead with confidence.

Ready to take the next step?
Let our experts walk you through your Business Investor Visa options and help you invest in your future today.