New Zealand is opening its doors to global entrepreneurs with the new Business Investor Work Visa, launching on November 24, 2025. Designed to attract seasoned investors and business owners, this visa provides a clear route to residence while channeling foreign investment into established New Zealand businesses.
Two Investment Options for Residence Pathways
The Business Investor Work Visa offers flexibility with two distinct investment pathways:
- NZ $1 million investment: A three-year work-to-residence route for applicants willing to build a long-term presence.
- NZ $2 million investment: A fast-track option, enabling residence within just 12 months.
Both options allow applicants to include their partner and dependent children, with the visa being valid for up to four years.
Eligibility Criteria: For Experienced and Established Entrepreneurs
Applicants must meet specific business and personal criteria to qualify. To be eligible, investors must:
- Invest in a business operating for at least five years in New Zealand.
- Maintain at least NZD $500,000 in reserve funds.
- Show substantial business experience, such as owning or managing a company with at least five full-time employees or generating NZD $1 million in annual revenue.
- Be under 55 years of age.
- Meet English language, health, and character requirements.
Certain business sectors are excluded from eligibility, including convenience stores, discount shops, drop-shipping ventures, fast-food outlets, gambling, tobacco and vaping, adult entertainment, home-based or franchised businesses, and immigration advisory services.
Pathway to Residence
After fulfilling the operational period under the visa, applicants can transition to the Business Investor Resident Visa. To qualify, they must:
- Actively manage the business and retain ownership.
- Maintain at least five full-time equivalent jobs.
- Create one new full-time role for a New Zealand citizen or resident.
- Keep the business financially solvent.
- Spend at least 184 days per year in New Zealand for three consecutive years.
- Continue to meet health and character standards.
Boosting Investment and Economic Growth
By introducing this visa, New Zealand aims to attract high-caliber investors who can contribute to job creation, innovation, and sustainable growth. The program aligns with the country’s long-term goal of diversifying its economy while promoting ethical, productive investments.
With a clear structure, defined requirements, and an accelerated path to residence, the Business Investor Work Visa marks a new chapter in New Zealand’s economic and immigration strategy—inviting global entrepreneurs to build and belong.
