[Updated] New Zealand: New Visa Category to Replace Investor Visas

Last Updated on February 23, 2023

This article was originally published on 22 July 2022 and was updated on 22 September 2022 to reflect new information.  

22 September 2022 Update: The government of New Zealand officially opened applications for the new Active Investor Plus visa category. According to the government, the Active Investor Plus visa is intended for skilled and experienced high-value investors seeking entry into New Zealand. The new visa will also replace the previous Investor 1 and Investor 2 visa categories, which closed to new applicants on 27 July 2022.  


Key Points  

  • On 19 September 2022, the government of New Zealand will replace the Investor 1 and Investor 2 visa with the new Active Investor Plus visa category  

Overview  

The government of New Zealand introduced the new Active Investor Plus visa category, which will replace two existing categories, the Investor 1 and Investor 2 visas.  Under these changes, eligible applicants must provide a minimum NZD $15 million investment in addition to other requirements including English language requirements. The visa category will open on 19 September 2022. 

Applications submitted for the Investor 1 and Investor 2 visas will no longer be accepted after 27 July 2022. For additional information on the new Active Investor Plus visa category, check here

What are the Changes? 

The government of New Zealand announced changes to New Zealand’s investor visa requirements on 21 July 2022.  According to the government, these changes will be made to attract high-value investors and incentivize direct investments to New Zealand, unlike the previous two visas that facilitated passive investment.  

Looking Ahead 

Continue to check the government of New Zealand’s website and Envoy’s website for the latest updates and information.  


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Content in this publication is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an attorney at one of the two U.S. Law Firms working with the Envoy Platform or another qualified professional. On non-U.S. immigration issues, consult an Envoy global immigration service provider or another qualified representative.