Business visa to New Zealand 2025: How to obtain a residence permit by purchasing a business and creating jobs

The Government of New Zealand has announced the introduction of a new visa category — Business Investor Visa, which aims to catalyze the inflow of entrepreneurial capital into the country. This program creates a clear path to residency for experienced business migrants, ready to not just invest, but also personally manage and develop existing New Zealand companies.

The new visa has become part of a comprehensive update of immigration rules for investors and a logical addition to the existing Active Investor Plus visa. Its key feature is a focus on active, direct participation in business, rather than passive financial investments.

According to the announced conditions, from November 2025, applicants will be offered a choice of two investment paths. The first option involves investing 1 million New Zealand dollars in purchasing an existing business and then obtaining residency after three years subject to successful operational activity. The second, accelerated path requires an investment of 2 million dollars and allows for residency claims after just 12 months, however, the investor must retain their share in the business for at least three years.

Strict requirements are imposed on candidates: having proven business management experience, a commitment to acquire at least 25% of the company or buy it out completely, as well as active participation in managing the enterprise and obtaining the status of a tax resident of New Zealand.

The program is aimed at supporting mature, stable business: the company must have been operating in the market for at least five years, meet certain financial criteria and have at least five full-time employees. An important condition for the investor will be the creation of at least one new job for a citizen or resident of the country.

Moreover, the government has limited the areas for investment, excluding from the program such types of business, as fast food outlets, convenience stores, franchises, as well as enterprises related to gambling, immigration consulting, and the adult entertainment industry.

More detailed information about the new visa program, including all details of financial requirements and the application process, will be published in October this year.