On 1 April 2025, Immigration New Zealand launched the Active Investor Plus Visa, a landmark policy shift that has captured the attention of high-net-worth individuals worldwide. By 8 August, more than 267 applications had been submitted, involving 862 investors and representing an estimated NZD 1.625 billion in capital inflows. Investors from the United States, China, Germany and beyond have acted swiftly, with Greater China (including Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan) accounting for nearly 30% of applications—leading Asia’s market response.
Why are Western elites and Asia’s new wealth turning to New Zealand?
1. New Zealand as the “Insurance Policy” for Global Residency
New Zealand permanent residency is often described as a “permanent return ticket”—once approved, it is valid for life with no renewal requirements and no mandatory residence obligations. Unlike Canada and Australia, which impose strict residency rules, New Zealand allows investors to choose where to live while securing residency for the entire family. Children enjoy free public education and healthcare, while investors retain global mobility. Even more compelling, New Zealand citizens benefit from seamless access to Australia through the SCV visa, enabling settlement, work, and eventual Australian citizenship after four years. With Australia’s investor visa programs now closed, New Zealand has become the most effective pathway to dual New Zealand–Australian access.
2. Lower Entry Thresholds, Faster Approvals
While leading destinations have raised barriers—Canada’s Quebec program now requires advanced French, the UK closed its GBP 2 million investor visa in 2022, and Australia ended its 188B/C visas in 2024—New Zealand has moved in the opposite direction. By lowering thresholds and accelerating approvals, it now stands as one of the few remaining value opportunities among English-speaking nations.
3. Core Advantages of the New Policy
Relaxed eligibility: No language requirement, no age limit. A NZD 5 million Growth Investment requires just three years of investment and 21 days of residence; a NZD 10 million Balanced Investment requires five years and 105 days of residence to obtain permanent residency.
Efficient approvals: Average processing time from lodgement to in-principle approval is only 17 working days—far faster than under the old regime.
Flexible investment options:
- Growth Category: Direct equity investment into unlisted New Zealand companies or managed funds.
- Balanced Category: A diversified portfolio including government bonds, listed equities, residential development, commercial/industrial property, philanthropy, direct investments, and managed funds.
4. Why Sapio Insights?
As a Hong Kong–headquartered, globally trusted one-stop immigration advisory firm, Sapio Insights offers end-to-end solutions for discerning investors:
- Policy insight: Our Auckland-based legal team maintains close dialogue with Immigration New Zealand and NZTE, ensuring early access to regulatory updates.
- Technical expertise: Our professionals manage complex financial structures, including dividends, equity transfers, pledges, capital gains, inheritance, and property appreciation.
- Comprehensive service: From tax planning and property settlement to school placement and relocation support, we provide seamless, customised assistance.
Choosing Sapio Insights means choosing expertise and peace of mind. In this golden era of investment migration, let us help you and your family secure a New Zealand future, capture strategic opportunities in global residency planning, and achieve both wealth and identity elevation.
