New Zealand Launches Business Investor Visa to Boost Economic Growth
In a significant shift in its business immigration strategy, the New Zealand Government has announced the closure of the Entrepreneur Work Visa and introduced a new pathway: the Business Investor Work Visa.
This move aims to attract seasoned investors who are ready to actively contribute to the country’s economy by running and growing businesses.
What Is the Business Investor Work Visa?
Set to open for applications in November 2025, the Business Investor Work Visa offers two distinct investment pathways for those looking to settle and invest in New Zealand:
- NZD $1 million investment in an existing business for a 3-year work-to-residence pathway
- NZD $2 million investment in an existing business for a 12-month fast-track to residence pathway
Applicants can either purchase a business outright or acquire at least 25% ownership, provided they meet the minimum investment thresholds.
Key Benefits
- Both pathways lead to eligibility for the Business Investor Resident Visa
- Applicants can include their partner and dependent children
- The visa may be granted for up to 4 years
- The total cost is NZD $12,380, covering the application fee and immigration levy
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the Business Investor Work Visa, applicants must:
- Meet the minimum investment threshold
- Have at least NZD $500,000 to support themselves and their family during the business setup phase
- Be 55 years or younger
- Meet English language requirements (IELTS 5.0 or equivalent)
- Fulfil health and character checks
- Demonstrate relevant business experience
- Invest in a business that meets financial criteria and employs at least 5 full-time equivalent staff
What Businesses Are Eligible?
While the visa encourages investment in a wide range of sectors, certain business types are excluded from eligibility:
- Drop-shipping operations
- Gambling enterprises
- Tobacco or nicotine product manufacturing (including vaping)
- Adult entertainment
- Convenience stores (e.g., corner dairies)
- Immigration advisory services or businesses linked to Licensed Immigration Advisers
- Discount/value stores (e.g., $2 shops)
- Fast food outlets
- Franchised businesses
- Home-based businesses
This new visa complements the Active Investor Plus Visa, which was refreshed in April 2025, and forms part of a broader update to attract global investment, talent, and international business connections.
The following comparison provides a concise overview of the essential features and requirements of each visa pathway:
These visas cater to different investor profiles, the Active Investor Plus Visa is ideal for those wanting to invest capital with limited operational involvement, while the Business Investor Visa suits those who want to actively manage or own a business in New Zealand.
Final Thoughts
The Business Investor Work Visa represents a strategic pivot toward attracting high-value investors who are committed to actively participating in New Zealand’s business landscape.
With clear pathways to residence and a focus on sustainable, job-creating enterprises, this visa is poised to play a key role in shaping the future of New Zealand’s economy.
For more detailed information about the changes and how they might impact your people, connect with our team of fully licensed advisers by contacting Crown World Mobility at crownworldmobility.nz@crownww.com
This summary was prepared using information obtained from INZ. Information is subject to change without notice.
