New Business Investor Visa as a Residence Pathway for Investors

The Business Investor Work Visa will open for applications in November 2025, and applicants can choose between two investment options:

1. NZD $1 million investment in an existing business – eligible for a three-year work-to-residence pathway; or

2. NZD $2 million investment in an existing business – eligible for a 12-month fast-track to residence pathway.

Applicants may either purchase a business outright or acquire at least a 25% shareholding, provided they meet either of the above investment thresholds.

In addition to the minimum investment thresholds, applicants must:

• Be 55 years old or younger at the time of application;
• Have at least NZD $500,000 to support themselves and any family member included in the application;
• Meet English language (ie IELTS 5 or equivalent), health, character, and business experience requirements;
• Invest in a business that employs at least five full-time equivalent staff; and
• Exclude certain business sectors such as drop-shipping, gambling, tobacco or vaping products, adult entertainment, convenience stores, fast food outlets, franchises, immigration advisory businesses, discount or value stores and home-based businesses.

The visa application costs NZD $12,380, covering both application fees and immigration levies, and can be granted for up to four years. Family members may also be included in the application, subject to meeting the relevant criteria.

If you submitted an application for an Entrepreneur Work Visa before its closure, it will still be processed using the applicable immigration rules in place at lodgement. No refunds will be given if you withdraw.

If you currently hold an Entrepreneur Work Visa, you may still apply for residence under the Entrepreneur Resident Visa category, which remains open. You can also apply for a renewal of your work visa if you need more time to maintain your pathway to residence under this category. Alternatively, you may choose to apply for a Business Investor Visa once applications open in November.

With the Business Investor Visa launching soon, interested applicants are encouraged to start reviewing their options and planning ahead.

If you currently hold or have applied for an Entrepreneur Work Visa, it is important to understand how the changes affect your pathway and to consider whether the new visa may be a better fit.

Applicants may also wish to take time to assess their investment capacity and identify opportunities that not only meet visa requirements but also align with their long-term business interests in New Zealand.

Seeking professional advice early can also help ensure you meet the new requirements and position yourself for a smooth transition to residence and to making a sound investment in New Zealand.

Please note that the above is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. You may also wish to visit INZ’s page for more information about the new Business Investor visa.

And if you need specific advice or wish to discuss your circumstances, feel free to talk to one of our immigration lawyers and specialists at info@adventark.co.nz or 09 969 1493.