New Zealand has quietly rolled out changes to its Active Investor Plus Visa, a program aimed at attracting wealthy individuals ready to invest big in the country’s economy. The government says the tweaks are designed to bring more clarity, but make no mistake, they also raise the bar.

Here’s what this means for investors looking to settle in New Zealand.

What is the Active Investor Plus Visa?

The Active Investor Plus Visa is New Zealand’s premier residence-by-investment program. It’s targeted at high-net-worth individuals who are willing to make significant investments in the country’s economy.

Once approved, this visa allows indefinite residence in New Zealand. That means you can live, work, and study in the country long-term, without needing to apply for further visas.

• Length of stay – indefinitely for Live, work and study
• Cost – From NZD $27470
• Processing Time – Approval in principle 80% within 4 months

What’s New? A Closer Look at the Updated Visa Requirements

The New Zealand government has amended the Active Investor Plus Visa policy to give investors greater clarity and open up new opportunities.

1. Investment Allocation Rules: A New Focus

• At least 75% of your committed investment must now be placed in listed equities or bonds.
• No more than 25% can be held in a New Zealand bank account or in term deposits (including cash accounts).
• Previously: Investors could allocate up to 100% of their funds to bank accounts or term deposits for the first six months.

This shift encourages a more active investment role in New Zealand’s real economy and financial markets, ensuring funds are genuinely growing the nation’s economic base.

2. Property Investment Gets a Green Light

• The updated rules introduce greater flexibility for property investment.
• Visa holders can now invest in New Zealand companies engaged in property development.
• This opens the door for international investors to support the country’s growing real estate sector, rather than being restricted to more passive forms of investment.

3. Indefinite Residency Perk

Upon approval, visa holders and their immediate family receive the right to live in New Zealand with indefinite residency. This makes it a highly attractive offer for investors seeking long-term security and the lifestyle New Zealand is renowned for.

How Do These Changes Benefit Prospective Investors?

• Clearer Guidelines: The government’s update removes ambiguity around where and how funds should be invested.
• Broader Investment Opportunities: With the inclusion of property development companies, investors enjoy more diversified options.
• Promotes Economic Growth: Directing capital into equities, bonds, and development companies helps drive job creation and innovation.

Who Can Apply for the Active Investor Plus Visa?

This visa is open to high-net-worth individuals willing to make qualifying investments in New Zealand. Key eligibility criteria typically include:

• Be 18 years or older
• Make a minimum NZD 5 million investment over three years
• Spend at least 117 days in New Zealand over four years
• Demonstrate good health and character
• Speak English at a functional level
• Commitment to invest in approved sectors, supporting economic growth

If you’re aiming to relocate and contribute financially to New Zealand’s dynamic economy, this visa could be your ticket in.

It is worth mentioning here that the Active Investor Plus visa is not for casual investors or those simply looking for a safe place to park their money. The government wants active, involved investors, hence the name.

Is This Visa Still Worth It?

If you’re looking to relocate and invest in a stable, developed country with a strong legal framework, the Active Investor Plus Visa is still a compelling option.

Yes, it now requires a more hands-on approach, but for the right investor, that’s not a dealbreaker, it’s a feature.

Planning to Apply? Here’s What You Should Know

• Work with a licensed immigration advisor to structure your investment portfolio correctly.
• Keep detailed documentation, investment type, value, and duration all matter.
• Understand the residency requirements. Skipping those 117 days in-country could cost you your visa.

For more details, check out New Zealand Immigration’s official page on the Active Investor Plus Visa.

Final Thoughts

New Zealand’s updated Active Investor Plus Visa isn’t for passive investors anymore. With tighter rules and higher expectations, it’s clear the country wants smart money that gets involved. If you’re serious about investing and living in New Zealand, now’s the time to step up and get active.