Business Investor Visa – Overview

INZ have recently decided to close down the Entrepreneur visa category, which some reports estimate had a decline rate of over 90%. A new, simplified Business Investor visa will be launched in November this year to replace the Entrepreneur category.

In order for applicants to apply, they will need to choose from one of two pathways:

• NZD $1 million investment – with a 3-year work-to-residence pathway;

• NZD $2 million investment – with a 12-month fast-track to residence pathway.

  
  

Provided the above investments are made in the correct manner, applicants can either purchase a business with 100% ownership, or take at least a 25% stake.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Business Investor Work Visa, applicants must:

• Meet generic health and character requirements

• Invest one of the amounts listed above, according to that particular pathway;

• Have at least $500k settlement funds available;

• Have passed a required English test;

• Be 55 or under at the time of application;

• Demonstrate relevant business experience (no further information on this currently.

• Invest in a business that:

  • Meets the required financial threshold, and

  • Employs at least 5 full-time equivalent staff