New Zealand Set to Introduce Business Investor Work Visa by November 2025

Exciting news for global entrepreneurs! New Zealand is introducing a Business Investor Work Visa on November 24, 2025. This new opportunity invites seasoned business individuals to invest in established local companies. With investment options of NZD 1 million and 2 million, applicants can secure both work and residence in this beautiful country.

What the New Visa Offers

The Business Investor Work Visa allows successful investors to live and work in New Zealand while managing or investing in local businesses. This visa lasts for up to four years and permits applicants to include their partners and dependent children.

Investment Tiers:

• NZD $1 Million Investment: This tier provides a three-year pathway to work and residence.
• NZD $2 Million Investment: This option allows for a faster route to residence after just 12 months.

Essentially, the more you invest, the quicker you can qualify for permanent residency.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify for the Business Investor Work Visa, applicants need to meet specific financial and professional criteria. Here’s what’s required:

• Invest in a business that has operated for at least five years.
• Commit a minimum of NZD 1millionor1 million or 1millionor2 million, based on the chosen investment tier.
• Maintain NZD $500,000 in reserve funds for personal and family support.
• Demonstrate proven business experience, such as running a company with at least five full-time employees or generating annual revenue of NZD $1 million.
• Be 55 years old or younger.
• Meet health, character, and English language requirements.

Businesses That Don’t Qualify

Not all business types are eligible for this visa. The following sectors are excluded:

• Convenience or discount stores
• Drop-shipping and fast food operations
• Gambling and tobacco (including vaping)
• Adult entertainment
• Home-based or franchised businesses
• Immigration advisory services

The government aims to channel investments into sustainable and growth-oriented businesses that create real jobs and deliver long-term value.

Pathway to Permanent Residence

Once visa holders meet the investment and operational requirements, they can transition to the Business Investor Resident Visa. To qualify, applicants must:

• Remain actively involved in their business.
• Retain their ownership stake.
• Maintain at least five full-time equivalent jobs.
• Create and sustain one new full-time position for a New Zealand citizen or resident for at least 12 months.
• Prove the business is financially stable.
• Spend at least 184 days in New Zealand in each of the previous three years.
• Continue meeting health and character standards.

In summary, running a successful, job-creating business can lead to permanent residency in New Zealand.

How It Differs from the Active Investor Plus Visa

The Active Investor Plus Visa remains available for those looking to invest larger amounts in New Zealand’s economy. It caters to high-net-worth individuals who can invest at least:

• NZD $5 Million in the Growth category for three years, or
• NZD $10 Million in the Balanced category for five years.

The Growth category involves higher-risk investments like managed funds or direct business investments. The Balanced category allows a mix, including equities, bonds, property developments, and philanthropic contributions.

Why This Matters

This new visa is a clear signal from New Zealand that it seeks engaged investors who contribute to real business growth. The focus on established firms and job creation indicates a commitment to building a more productive, locally rooted economy.

For global entrepreneurs, this visa presents a compelling opportunity to invest and settle in New Zealand, combining lifestyle with business success. Don’t miss this chance to be part of a thriving entrepreneurial landscape!