Business Investor Category

In 2009 a new set of Migrant Investor Policies was introduced which represented a relaxation of the previous investment policies.

• The Investor Plus or 1 Category: this is for those wishing to invest NZ$10 million + for a period of 3 years. For this category, there is no minimum English language requirement, nor any need to prove business experience and it is the category which involves the least commitment to New Zealand in terms of time spent here as the principal applicant need only spend 73 days in each of the last 2 years of the investment period in NZ.
• The Investor 2 Category. This is for those wishing to invest at least NZ$1.5 million into NZ for a period of 4 years. In this case, in addition to the investment capital, you must have another spare NZ$1 million in "settlement funds"; at least 3 years' business experience in owning or senior management of a business with an annual turnover of at least NZ$1 million and employing at least 5 full-time staff. In addition, you must have an English speaking background or an IELTS test score of at least 4. You will also need to spend at least 146 days in NZ in each of the last 3 years of your investment. For this category, there is an age limit of 65 years and applications are managed through a quota and points system. The annual cap is 300 places per year.

  In addition to these two residence options, there is also a brand new temporary retirement visa.

  This type of visa is now available for those aged 66+ looking to invest at least NZ$.75 million for period of 2 years. You need to also show that you have at least NZ$.5 million in settlement funds and an income of NZ$60,000 at the time of the application. The 2 year visa can be reapplied for at the end of the term provided you continue to meet the requirements.

  If you would like to know more about any of the investment categories, please go to our Personal Assessment page to complete a questionnaire to find out if you are eligible.