New Zealand's Golden Visa (Active Investor Plus) program has lost popularity among foreign investors in recent years. However, the country's leadership aims to change the conditions to make it more attractive to expats. Find out what conditions for obtaining a residence permit are relevant in 2025

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The Active Investor Plus program allows foreigners to obtain a residence permit in New Zealand, provided that expats make a financial contribution to the country's economy and meet the necessary conditions.

Over the past two years, the number of applicants for the New Zealand Golden Visa, also known as Active Investor Plus, has fallen sharply. In particular, the maximum outflow of wealthy expats became noticeable after changes to the program in 2022. This trend is worrying the country's government, which is why the New Zealand leadership is talking about making changes to the Active Investor Plus program. We have collected everything that is currently known about the New Zealand Golden Visa program in this article.

Why and by how much has the number of applicants for the New Zealand Golden Visa decreased?

At the beginning of the Active Investor Plus program, it brought in an average of NZ$1 billion (or approximately 580 million US dollars) per year.

However, in 2022, changes to the conditions for obtaining a permit were approved, since then the country has approved only 35 international applications for a total of NZ$352 million (US$203 million).

How will the Active Investor Plus Visa in New Zealand change in 2025?

The Active Investor Plus Visa procedure in New Zealand was found to be too complex, which is why it was replaced by two new categories that encourage direct investment in New Zealand businesses:

- Growth Category

The “Growth” category focuses on high-risk investments. Direct investment in New Zealand businesses is particularly encouraged here.

The minimum investment size is $ 5 million over a minimum of three years.

This option is designed for investors looking for high growth potential and direct participation in the local economy.

- Balanced Category

This category offers a more diversified approach, allowing investors to choose from a range of lower-risk investments.

The minimum investment size is $ 10 million over five years.

This option provides a more conservative investment path for those looking for stability and long-term cooperation.

Important! Simplified visa categories for investors in New Zealand will be operational from 1 April 2025.

Key reforms approved by the New Zealand government to attract foreign investors

1. Expanded investment opportunities - the new visa scheme offers a wider range of investments.

2. No English language requirements - the government has removed the mandatory English language proficiency requirement to facilitate the application process.

3. Flexibility for global investors - the new categories offer easier and more flexible ways for investors to move to New Zealand.

Why is it important for New Zealand to attract international investors?

The New Zealand leadership says that the state currently needs foreign capital not only to achieve its economic goals. Also important are the connections, knowledge, experience and ideas that expats bring with them. Migrant investors not only make an initial investment, they can also make other contributions throughout their lives and become more involved in the economy in a variety of ways that are beneficial.

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Requirements for a foreign investor to obtain a New Zealand Golden Visa

- Confirm the absence of diseases.

- Satisfy the application points system.

- Make an investment of at least 5 million US dollars.

- Prove that the funds were earned or received legally.

- Transfer the nominal funds within 6 months from the date of approval in principle.

- Spend at least 117 days in New Zealand during the 4-year investment period.

Prospects for a foreign investor in New Zealand

After 4 years, the expat will have the opportunity to apply for permanent residence in New Zealand.

An application for citizenship can be made after 5 years, subject to compliance with language and residence requirements.

Allowed to move with family - husband, wife and children under the age of 25.

With these significant changes, New Zealand is making a significant push to attract international investors by simplifying visa requirements and offering more flexible investment options.

Reminder! New Zealand has relaxed visitor visa rules to attract digital nomads. We told you live what has changed for remote workers in New Zealand in 2025

To ensure a safe move to a new country, book a consultation with a migration lawyer. Qualified specialists with a legal education will help you avoid unpleasant situations during migration to New Zealand.

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