New Zealand Unveils Enhanced Active Investor Plus Visa to Attract High-Net-Worth Investors
In a move aimed at boosting foreign investment in the country’s economy, the New Zealand government has announced an updated Active Investor Plus (AIP) visa, set to come into effect on April 1st, 2025. The revamped visa program introduces two novel investment categories – Growth and Balanced – tailored to cater to different risk preferences among high-net-worth investors.
Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis highlighted the pivotal role foreign investment plays in stimulating the economy and creating job opportunities for New Zealanders. “Foreign investment has the potential to deliver new businesses and lift incomes, providing jobs for Kiwis. We should be welcoming high-net-worth investors to New Zealand, encouraging them to invest their capital in our economy,” Willis emphasized.
The two new investment categories are designed to provide more flexibility for potential investor migrants. The Growth category focuses on higher-risk investments, such as direct investments and managed funds, with a minimum investment requirement of NZ$5 million over a three-year period. Investors in this category must also spend at least 21 days in New Zealand during the three-year period.
In contrast, the Balanced category offers lower-risk investment options with a higher minimum investment requirement of NZ$10 million over a five-year period and a stricter residency requirement of at least 105 days in New Zealand during that period. However, investors who exceed the minimum investment threshold in the Growth category can reduce their residency obligations.
The updated AIP visa seeks to simplify the process for investor migrants pursuing New Zealand residency. The revised visa structure offers faster pathways to residency, particularly for those opting for the Growth category, which features a three-year investment period and relaxed residency requirements. This move aims to make New Zealand a more attractive destination for international investors seeking opportunities in the country.
The timing of the changes coincides with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s broader economic growth strategy, which focuses on positioning New Zealand as a prime location for foreign capital. The government has been preparing for the Global Investment Summit in March 2025, an event expected to draw 100 of the world’s top investors, business leaders, and construction companies.
“The Government is committed to driving the growth New Zealand needs to lift incomes, strengthen businesses, and create opportunities for all Kiwis,” Prime Minister Luxon stated. “The updated AIP visa is a key component of this strategy, showcasing New Zealand’s potential as a global investment hub.”
As the revised AIP visa takes effect, the government will provide support to investor migrants to ensure a smooth transition into New Zealand’s investment landscape. Further details on the implementation and impact of the changes will be released in early March 2025, ahead of the changes taking effect.
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