New Zealand has announced the introduction of its Business Investor Work Visa, set to begin on November 24, 2025. The new visa provides an exclusive opportunity for skilled investors to gain residence by investing in established New Zealand businesses. Applicants can choose between two investment options –
  • NZD $1 million for a 3-year residence route, or
  • NZD $2 million for a fast-track 12-month pathway to residency.
  • The visa remains valid for up to four years and allows inclusion of a spouse and dependent children.
  • To qualify, applicants must also maintain NZD $500,000 in reserve funds to cover living costs during their stay.
  • After fulfilling business performance and residence obligations, holders can transition to permanent residency.
Planning to work in New Zealand? Connect with experts at Apical Immigration Experts to get personalized guidance.

Invest, Work, and Settle in New Zealand with the New Business Investor Work Visa

The Business Investor Work Visa is New Zealand’s newest initiative to attract financially capable entrepreneurs who can drive innovation, create jobs, and strengthen the nation’s economy. Through active participation in established local businesses, investors will contribute directly to regional growth and sustainable development. This visa allows holders to live, work, and manage their business in New Zealand for up to four years. After meeting all criteria, applicants can apply for permanent residency under the Business Investor Resident Visa category.

Investment Options Available

  • NZD $1 million – 3-year work-to-residence route
  • NZD $2 million – 12-month fast-track route to residence
Looking to apply for the Business Investor Work Visa? Speak to Apical Immigration Experts for end-to-end support.

Eligibility Criteria for New Zealand’s Business Investor Work Visa

Applicants must fulfill certain eligibility conditions to ensure only genuine, experienced investors participate in this program. To qualify, you must:
  • Invest in a New Zealand business operating for at least 5 years
  • Meet the minimum investment threshold (NZD $1M or NZD $2M)
  • Show experience managing or owning a business with at least 5 employees or annual turnover of NZD $1M
  • Hold NZD $500,000 in reserve funds
  • Be 55 years of age or younger
  • Meet English proficiency requirements (IELTS or equivalent)
  • Pass medical and character checks required by Immigration New Zealand

Pathway to Permanent Residence: Business Investor Resident Visa

Once the business has been successfully operated for the required duration, investors can apply for the Business Investor Resident Visa, granting permanent residence in New Zealand. Applicants must continue to:
  • Be actively involved in the business
  • Maintain the same ownership level
  • Create at least one full-time job for a New Zealand resident or citizen (for at least 12 months)
  • Retain five full-time positions in the business
  • Ensure the business remains financially viable
  • Spend at least 184 days per year in New Zealand for 3 consecutive years
  • Meet ongoing health and character standards
new-zealand-business-investor-visa-requirements This ensures that investors who make genuine economic contributions can build a stable and permanent life in New Zealand.

Why New Zealand is the Ideal Destination for Indian Investors

New Zealand presents excellent business and lifestyle opportunities for Indian entrepreneurs:
  • Ranked among the Top 5 countries globally for ease of doing business
  • Transparent regulatory system and strong legal protections
  • Rapidly growing industries such as technology, agribusiness, and renewable energy
  • Home to 240,000+ people of Indian origin, ensuring a strong community network
  • Offers world-class education, healthcare, and high quality of life
why-choose-new-zealand-for-investment The Business Investor Work Visa is more than just a residence pathway — it’s a chance to create a lasting business legacy in one of the world’s most dynamic economies. Looking to migrate, invest, or settle abroad? Connect with Apical Immigration Experts – your trusted overseas immigration partner.

FAQs – New Zealand Business Investor Work Visa

What is the New Zealand Business Investor Work Visa?

It’s a new visa introduced by Immigration New Zealand for experienced investors who wish to invest in existing businesses. It allows holders to live, work, and manage their business for up to four years, after which they can apply for permanent residence through the Business Investor Resident Visa.

When will applications open?

Applications open on November 24, 2025. Eligible investors can apply through Immigration Online, New Zealand’s official visa platform.

Who can apply for this visa?

Applicants must be experienced investors or business owners, aged 55 or younger, meet the minimum investment threshold, hold NZD $500,000 in reserve funds, and pass English, health, and character checks.

What are the investment options?

  • NZD $1 million – 3-year pathway to residence
  • NZD $2 million – 12-month fast-track to residence

How long is the visa valid?

The visa is valid for up to 4 years and allows applicants to include their partner and dependent children.

Can family members be included?

Yes. Partners and dependent children can be included, giving families access to education, healthcare, and work/study opportunities.

What types of businesses are excluded?

Businesses such as convenience stores, drop-shipping, fast food chains, gambling, tobacco, adult entertainment, home-based ventures, or immigration consultancies are not eligible under this visa.

How can investors apply for permanent residence?

After successfully managing the business for the required period, visa holders can apply for permanent residency under the Business Investor Resident Visa by meeting ongoing ownership, employment, and residency requirements.

Why is this visa beneficial for Indian investors?

It provides a dual benefit – expanding internationally while securing a pathway to residence in New Zealand, a country with a strong Indian community and excellent business environment.

What documents are required?

Applicants must provide:
  • Valid passport
  • Proof of business ownership/management
  • Financial statements and investment proof
  • English proficiency test results
  • Health and character certificates
  • Relationship documents (if applying with family)
All documents must meet Immigration New Zealand’s verification standards.