New Zealand's Golden Visa program has fallen out of favor with foreign investors in recent years. However, the country's leadership is aiming to change the conditions to make it more attractive to expats. Find out what the current residency requirements are and what investors can expect in the future.

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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).

What changes can foreign investors expect to see in New Zealand’s Golden Visa program in 2025?

The exact details of the proposed plan have not yet been made public, so we can only speculate about what they will be. Currently, to obtain residency in New Zealand, visa applicants must invest at least NZ$5 million directly or NZ$15 million through passive investment (US$2.9 million or US$8.8 million, respectively). Previously, before the 2022 rule changes, applicants had to commit to at least NZ$3 million (US$1.8 million).

Among the things that have been implemented so far, we can only talk about accelerating the application process for a golden visa, as the New Zealand government has already taken the necessary measures.

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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What is the New Zealand Golden Visa Program?

The scheme allows foreigners to obtain a residence permit in New Zealand provided that expats make a financial contribution to New Zealand and meet the necessary conditions.

As of the end of 2024, those interested in benefiting from New Zealand’s Golden Visa program must invest at least NZ$5 million in direct investments or a total of NZ$15 million in passive investments.

In addition, some previously popular investments, such as bonds and property, are no longer eligible for the program.

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

- Confirm the absence of diseases.

- Satisfy the application points system.

- Meet the English language proficiency requirements (IELTS 5).

- Make an investment of NZ$15 million (or weighted equivalent) over a minimum of 4 years.

- 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.

Let's remind you! New Zealand is recognized as one of the best countries in the world to live and work. We have already told you how a foreigner can find a job in New Zealand, what types of work visas are available and what is important to know when moving to this country for work.

Igor Usyk - Head of Migration department at VisitWorld

To ensure a safe move to a new country, I advise you to consult a specialist. My colleagues, qualified specialists with a legal education, will help you avoid unpleasant situations during migration.

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