Residence by investment visa provides high-net-worth individuals in exchange for investment. It is commonly known as the golden visa program. There are 30 countries in the world that grant residence rights in exchange for a defined economic contribution to their country. New Zealand is amongst this number and in February 2025, the New Zealand government confirmed relaxed requirement for one of their investment visas in a bid to lure wealthy investors to New Zealand. Learn about this program and recent changes here.
New Zealand’s residency-by-investment programs provide a pathway to permanent residency and eventual citizenship, allowing investors and their families to live, work, and study in New Zealand.
Why invest in New Zealand
New Zealand is known for its stable economy, strong rule of law, investor-friendly policies, and high quality of life. Let’s give it to them. I agree that many policies, especially around immigration, are not favourable but we can all agree that the quality of life here is relatively good. Unlike some countries with real estate-heavy Golden Visa schemes, New Zealand focuses on business investment and economic growth
Types of Investor Visa Categories
1. Active Investor Plus Visa
Introduced in 2022, this is New Zealand’s primary residence-by-investment program, replacing the previous Investor 1 & 2 Visas.
- Minimum Investment: NZD 5 million to NZD 15 million, depending on investment type.
- Eligible Investments: Direct investment in New Zealand businesses, startups, managed funds, new property developments, bonds.
- Residency Requirement: 21–105 days over 3–5 years.
- Pathway to Citizenship: Available after holding permanent residency for at least 5 years.
Ideal for: Investors interested in long-term economic contribution, not just passive real estate holdings. Learn more about criteria and eligibility here.
2. Parent Retirement Resident Visa
This visa is for retirees who want to live in New Zealand permanently and have adult children who are New Zealand residents or citizens.
- Minimum Investment: NZD 1 million for 4 years.
- Additional Funds Required: NZD 500K in settlement funds + annual income of at least NZD 60K.
- Residency Requirement: Investors must maintain funds in New Zealand for the required period.
- Pathway to Citizenship: Can apply for permanent residency after meeting conditions.
Ideal for: Parents of New Zealand residents or citizens who want a secure, investment-backed retirement in New Zealand.
Application Process for Residence by Investment
- Assess Eligibility: Meet financial and investment requirements.
- Submit Application: Provide details of intended investment, financial background, and source of funds.
- Approval in Principle: Upon acceptance, transfer funds within a specified period.
- Investment & Compliance: Maintain investments and fulfill residency obligations.
- Apply for Permanent Residency: If all conditions are met, investors can apply for PR and eventually citizenship.
Benefits of New Zealand’s Investment Residency
- Access to world-class healthcare and education.
- Ability to bring spouse and dependent children (up to age 24).
- No need to permanently relocate—only minimum stay requirements.
- Long-term security and eligibility for a New Zealand passport.
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