What this service covers

This service relates to residence pathways based on investment in New Zealand.

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New Zealand offers a primary investment-based residence option through the Active Investor Plus visa category. These applications are financially and legally complex, requiring careful planning, accurate documentation, and alignment with current immigration policy and acceptable investment criteria.

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Who this is for

This service may be suitable if you:

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• Are seeking residence in New Zealand through investment

• Have substantial assets available for investment

• Are considering the Active Investor Plus category

• Have children already living in New Zealand and are exploring long-term residence options

• Want structured legal guidance alongside financial advice

 

It may also be relevant for parents of New Zealand residents where the Parent Retirement Residence Visa (a hybrid between family and investment pathways) could be more appropriate.

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Common concerns

Investors often seek clarity on:

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• Minimum investment thresholds and weighting rules

• What qualifies as an acceptable investment

• Compliance with changing policy settings

• Risk and suitability of different investment structures

• Coordination between immigration requirements and financial advice

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Given the scale of investment required, accuracy and early strategic advice are essential.

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How the process works

The Active Investor Plus visa has replaced the previous Investor 1 and Investor 2 categories and is now the primary investment pathway to residence in New Zealand.

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The minimum investment requirement is NZD $15 million, or the weighted equivalent, depending on the type of investment. For example:

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• Managed funds are typically weighted at 2:1, meaning a lower nominal investment may meet the threshold

• Direct investments are often weighted at 3:1

• Philanthropy and listed equities are generally weighted at 1:1

 

Investment funds must be placed into acceptable investments that meet Immigration New Zealand’s criteria and remain compliant throughout the investment period. Policy settings and financial thresholds may change over time, so up-to-date guidance is important before proceeding.

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In some cases, the Parent Retirement Resident Visa may be a more appropriate pathway, particularly where applicants have children living in New Zealand and sufficient financial resources.

 

What information is usually required

Investor applications typically require:

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• Evidence of funds and lawful source of wealth

• Investment plans and financial documentation

• Identity, health, and character documentation

• Details of any family members included in the application

• Ongoing evidence of investment compliance (post-approval)

 

These applications involve a high level of financial scrutiny and detailed supporting evidence.

 

How I provide support

I provide legal guidance on eligibility, documentation, and compliance with immigration instructions for investor-based residence applications.

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While only a licensed financial adviser can recommend specific investments, I work alongside a licensed financial adviser who can assist with the investment component, ensuring that both the legal and financial aspects of the application are aligned. My role is to ensure that the structure of the application meets Immigration New Zealand’s requirements and that all supporting evidence is prepared carefully and accurately.

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Next steps

If you are considering residence in New Zealand through investment, an initial consultation can help determine whether the investor pathway or an alternative category is more suitable for your circumstances.

This allows for a clear assessment of eligibility, investment requirements, and the most appropriate residence strategy before significant financial commitments are made.