New Zealand Updates Golden Visa Program: Reduced Investment Thresholds Starting April 2025

New Zealand is set to make significant changes to its Golden Visa program. Starting April 1, 2025, the country introduces two new investment categories: Growth and Balanced. These changes aim to attract more global investors by simplifying the investment process and reducing residency requirements.

Overview: New Zealand Golden Visa

The Golden Visa, also known as an investor visa, allows wealthy individuals to gain residency through substantial investments. This program aims to attract capital, enhance New Zealand’s economy, and create job opportunities.

New Investment Categories: Growth and Balanced

Under the revised framework, investors can choose between two categories:

1. Growth Category

This category requires a minimum investment of NZD 5 million over three years. It prioritizes high-risk investments, such as direct investments in New Zealand enterprises.

2. Balanced Category

Investors in this category must invest a minimum of NZD 10 million over five years. This option allows for lower-risk investments, including bonds and property.

Property and Bond Investments Accepted

For the first time, the Balanced category will allow property investments. However, these must focus on:

• New residential developments that increase housing availability.
• New or existing commercial and industrial developments.
• Bond investments will also be permitted, expanding options for foreign applicants. This change marks a significant shift from previous regulations that primarily focused on direct investments.

Lower Immigration Requirements for Investors

New Zealand is easing residency requirements for investor migrants. The new stay requirements are as follows:

• Growth Category: Investors must spend only 21 days in New Zealand during the investment period.
• Balanced Category: Investors need to spend 105 days in New Zealand unless they qualify for a reduction.

Investors who exceed the minimum investment amount can reduce their stay requirement:

• NZD 11 million: 14-day reduction
• NZD 12 million: 28-day reduction
• NZD 13 million: 42-day reduction

Additionally, investors must complete all investments within six months of approval, expediting the process.

Removal of English Language Requirements

One of the most significant changes is the elimination of English language requirements. This update makes it easier for a broader pool of global investors to apply for the Golden Visa.

Key Benefits of the New Golden Visa Program

The revamped program offers several advantages:

• Lower Minimum Investment: The minimum investment is now NZD 5 million for Growth investors and NZD 10 million for Balanced investors.
• Faster Processing: Investors must transfer funds and complete investments within six months.
• Expanded Investment Options: Bonds and property investments are now included in the Balanced category.
• Relaxed Residency Rules: Stay requirements for investors have been significantly reduced.
• No English Proficiency Requirement: This change provides more flexibility for non-English-speaking applicants.

A Shift from Previous Visa Categories

The previous Investor 1 and Investor 2 categories are no longer accepted. These changes represent a significant shift in New Zealand’s approach, making it easier for high-net-worth individuals to invest and contribute to economic growth.

Why Invest in New Zealand?

New Zealand offers a stable economy and a high quality of life. The revamped Golden Visa program enhances its attractiveness for investors. The focus on direct investments and strategic property development aims to stimulate economic growth and create new opportunities.

Final Thoughts

New Zealand’s updated Golden Visa program is designed to attract global investors with a streamlined investment process. With reduced investment thresholds, expanded options, and relaxed residency rules, the country positions itself as a leading destination for wealthy immigrants seeking residency through investment.

Starting April 1, 2025, investor migrants should prepare their applications to benefit from this more accessible residency program.