Business Investor Visa

Applicants have two investment routes to choose from:

Route A: Invest NZD $1 million investment into an existing business (or purchase / acquire ≥ 25% ownership) = Three year work to Residence pathway

Route B: NZD $2 million investment into an existing business (or purchase / acquire ≥ 25% ownership) = Fast track Residence in 12 months

To qualify under the BIV, applicants must meet several requirements:

• Be 55 years or younger at the time of application
• Have sufficient hands-on business experience
• Meet minimum English language standards
• Pass health and character checks
• Show evidence of sufficient personal funds to support themselves and dependents (expert commentary suggests at least NZD $500,000)
• Invest in a business that employs at least five full-time staff
• Excluded sectors include drop-shipping, gambling, tobacco, adult entertainment, convenience stores, fast food, and home-based businesses

• You must actively manage the business during the investment period (three years for Route A, 12 months for Route B)
• You must create at least one additional full-time role in the business
• You are expected to spend sufficient time in New Zealand, including meeting tax residence requirements (generally at least 184 days per year)