New Zealand to Launch New Visa for Rs 5–10 Cr Investors
New Zealand will introduce a new Business Investor Work Visa on November 24, 2025, aimed at attracting experienced entrepreneurs willing to invest in established local businesses. The visa provides two investment pathways: NZ$1 million (approx. ₹5 crore) for a three-year work-to-residence route, and NZ$2 million (approx. ₹10 crore) for a faster pathway to residence after 12 months.
Applicants must invest in a business operating for at least five years, demonstrate substantial business experience, and maintain reserve funds of NZ$500,000 (approx. ₹2.5 crore). Other requirements include being under 55 years of age, meeting English language standards, and passing health and character checks.
The visa also allows applicants to include partners and dependent children, offering a pathway for families to settle in New Zealand. Eligible investors must actively manage their business, sustain at least five full-time jobs, create one new full-time job for a New Zealand citizen or resident, and spend a minimum of 184 days a year in New Zealand for three consecutive years to qualify for residence.
Certain business categories are ineligible, including convenience stores, fast food outlets, adult entertainment, tobacco and vaping businesses, franchised operations, and immigration advisory services.
This initiative is designed to strengthen New Zealand’s economy by attracting skilled investors who can support established enterprises and create local employment, providing a clearer route to residence compared to previous investor schemes.