Beyond the exceptional investment opportunities, the Active Investor Plus Visa offers a range of benefits that make New Zealand an exceptional place to live and invest. You can gain:
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New Zealand Active Investor Plus Visa
Things are changing for international investors wanting to own a home in New Zealand.
New Zealand’s Golden Visa - officially known as the Active Investor Plus Visa - now opens the door for qualified foreign buyers to soon own or build one $5m+ property. Here’s what the update means for investors, homeowners, and the premium end of the market.
What is the New Zealand Golden Visa?
The New Zealand Golden Visa is the name commonly used to refer to the Active Investor Plus Visa - the official residency pathway for high-value investors. This program allows eligible overseas investors to live, invest and, under recent rule changes, purchase or build one property worth NZ $5 million or more.
How does it differ from other Golden Visa programs?
While some countries run “Golden Visa” schemes tied directly to property purchases, New Zealand’s version is investment-led. The Active Investor Plus Visa (AIP) focuses on productive business and capital investment, with the ability to own a single high-value residence added as part of the 2025 update. It’s designed to bring long-term capital, innovation and expertise into the country.
Investment thresholds and 2025 updates
In 2025, the Government introduced refinements to the Active Investor Plus Visa, giving applicants more flexibility in how they invest and where they choose to live. The visa now offers two distinct pathways: Growth, for higher-risk active investments starting from $5 million over three years, and Balanced, for lower-risk mixed investments from $10 million over five years.
Alongside these changes, approved visa holders will soon be able to buy or build one residential property valued at NZ $5 million or more. This adjustment reopens a narrow channel for international buyers at the very top end of the market, while protecting affordability for local buyers as fewer than 1% of New Zealand homes sit above this threshold.
Application process and timeline
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Submit your application - Outline investment intentions with Immigration New Zealand
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Approval in Principle - Once approved, investors have six months to transfer and allocate funds
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Investment Period - Maintain the investment for the three or five year investment time period
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Permanent Residence - If all conditions are met at the end of investment period, apply for a Permanent Resident Visa
(Always refer to Immigration New Zealand for the latest official requirements.)
Who is eligible?
The Active Investor Plus Visa is designed for high-value investors who can make a significant financial contribution to New Zealand. Applicants must invest at least NZ $5 million in approved investments - though the total amount required depends on the mix of investments chosen.
There are two investment categories:
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Growth Investment: invest at least NZD $5 million in approved New Zealand assets for 36 months
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Balanced Investment: invest at least NZD $10 million in approved New Zealand assets for 60 months
Exemptions or tailored pathways may apply for those investing substantially above the threshold.
The benefits
Why apply for New Zealand's Active Investor Plus visa?
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Pathway to residence for investors and their families
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Property ownership rights at the $5 million+ level
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Access to New Zealand’s renowned lifestyle - safety, stability and natural beauty
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this visa be used to buy property in New Zealand?
Yes. Since 2025, Active Investor Plus visa holders can purchase or build one home worth NZ $5 million or more. This limited pathway allows international buyers to participate in the high-end market.
What types of property qualify?
Only one residential property (new or existing) above NZ $5 million qualifies. Multiple purchases or commercial acquisitions do not fall under this rule.
How does this compare to other countries’ Golden Visas?
Unlike the property-driven programs of Europe or Asia, New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus Visa emphasises business investment first.
Looking for your New Zealand home?
Buying in New Zealand
As an overseas buyer, our agents can help you understand your purchasing options.
A new chapter for foreign buyers
The foreign buyer door is open again, but entry is reserved for high-value investors with the right visa.