Launch of the Business Investor Visa

The government has introduced the Business Investor Visa (BIV), a new immigration pathway aimed at attracting experienced international investors to strengthen New Zealand’s economy. The launch of the BIV follows the closure of the Entrepreneur Work Visa and represents a significant shift toward sustained investment in established New Zealand businesses.

The BIV offers two residency pathways:

1.    Work-to-residency (3 years) – minimum investment threshold of $1 million, or

2.    Fast-track residency (12 months) – minimum investment threshold of $2 million.

Investments must be directed into an existing, actively operated New Zealand business. Other key requirements include demonstrated business experience by the investor, investment in a business that employs at least five full-time staff, and compliance with approved and qualifying business categories.

For New Zealand business owners, the BIV presents an opportunity to attract new capital, expand operations and generate employment that, in turn, will promote long-term economic growth.

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