New Zealand has modified its Golden Visa rules to make the country more attractive and accessible to foreign investors. The changes, effective April 1, 2025, aim to encourage, streamline, and expand investment opportunities.
The Active Investor Plus visa will be replaced with two simplified investment categories: Growth and Balanced. The Growth category requires a minimum investment of NZD $5 million over three years, focusing on higher-risk investments such as direct investments in New Zealand enterprises. Investors under this category must spend at least 21 days in New Zealand over the investment period.
The Balanced category requires a minimum investment of NZD $10 million over five years, focusing on mixed investments with lower-risk options. Acceptable investments include bonds and property investments, such as new residential developments, new or existing commercial or industrial developments. Investors under this category must spend at least 105 days in New Zealand over the investment period, unless eligible for a reduction.
Investors who choose more active investments will face fewer immigration requirements. The English language requirement introduced in 2022 has been removed. Additionally, investors can reduce their required stay in New Zealand by investing above the minimum amount.
The changes aim to make investing in New Zealand more attractive. With the new rules, investors can obtain a New Zealand Golden Visa by purchasing real estate valued at NZD 10 million. The simplified investment categories and reduced immigration requirements are expected to encourage foreign investors to choose New Zealand as a destination for their capital investments.
The modifications to the Golden Visa rules are part of New Zealand’s efforts to stimulate economic recovery. By attracting wealthy immigrants and foreign investment, the country aims to boost economic growth and create jobs. The changes are expected to make New Zealand a more competitive destination for foreign investors.
Important Changes:
- Two Simplified Investment Categories: Growth and Balanced
- Minimum Investment Amounts: NZD $5 million for Growth and NZD $10 million for Balanced
- Acceptable Investments: Bonds and property investments for Balanced category
- Reduced Immigration Requirements: Fewer requirements for investors who choose more active investments
- No English Language Requirement: Removed to encourage more foreign investors
