The New Zealand government is introducing significant reforms to the Active Investor Plus (AIP) Visa to attract high-value investors and stimulate economic growth. These updates, effective from 1 April 2025, aim to streamline the investment process and create a more investor-friendly environment.
Key Changes:
Introduction of Two Investment Categories
The visa will now be structured into two categories:
- Growth Category: Designed for higher-risk investments, such as managed funds and direct investments in New Zealand businesses.
- Balanced Category: Allows for diversified investments, now including bonds and property.
Lower Minimum Investment Thresholds
To encourage greater participation, the minimum investment requirements have been adjusted:
- Growth Category: Minimum investment of NZD $5 million over three years.
- Balanced Category: Minimum investment of NZD $10 million over five years.
Streamlined Immigration Requirements
- Removal of the English language requirement
- Investments must be made within six months of their approval, with the possibility of a six-month extension.
- Investors engaging in active investments will have fewer requirements to physically reside in New Zealand – as little as 21 days in three years.
Our Take:
New Zealand’s investor visa criteria have been too onerous, which has resulted in a significant reduction in investor category visas being applied for or granted. These reforms should simplify the application process, lower barriers, and provide more flexibility for global investors.
While these reforms are a positive step, competition for high-value investors remains strong worldwide. To maintain long-term success, Immigration New Zealand must continue refining its policies and actively engaging with investors to ensure its offering remains competitive.
Next Steps:
Further details will be released in March 2025. Investors can continue to apply using the existing online application form, which will be updated to reflect these new changes. Contact Greenstone Immigration today to explore how these changes can benefit you and your investment plans in New Zealand.
Graydon Sharratt
Licensed Immigration Adviser