The New Zealand Government has confirmed the closure of the Entrepreneur Work Visa, replacing it with a simpler and more direct Business Investor Visa.
This new visa is designed for those looking to invest in existing New Zealand businesses, offering two clear investment options:
- NZD $1 million investment in an existing business → 3-year work-to-residence pathway.
- NZD $2 million investment in an existing business → fast-track pathway to residence process.
There is no need to purchase the whole business as long as the value of shares purchased make up at least 25% ownership and meet the minimum investment thresholds.
Eligibility: what we know so far
Alongside the required investment, applicants will need to:
- show at least NZ$500,000 in settlement funds to support themselves and their family
- be under the age of 56 at the date of application
- meet English language requirements (equivalent to IELTS 5.0)
- meet standard health and character requirements
- meet business experience requirements
- invest in a business that employs at least 5 full-time equivalent staff
Excluded businesses
The following businesses will not qualify under this visa. More detail is expected in the coming months, but so far, exclusions include:
- franchised businesses
- fast food outlets
- convenience stores (for example, corner dairies)
- tobacco, nicotine, and vaping manufacturers
- discount stores (for example, NZ 2 Dollar shops)
- home-based businesses (businesses only operating from a residential address).
- drop-shipping
- gambling
- adult entertainment
- businesses that offer immigration advisory services
Get ready to apply
Applications are set to open in November 2025 (exact dates still to be announced). More detailed policy information will be released in October 2025, stay tuned to our blog for the latest updates.
At Greenstone Immigration, our experienced team of 9 licensed immigration advisers, including advisers with backgrounds in investment banking and finance, can help you prepare now.
We will:
- assess your eligibility
- connect you with reputable business brokers to explore the right opportunities
- manage your visa application from start to finish
Contact us today to start planning your pathway to New Zealand residence through investment.
