Business Investor Visa NZ
Build your future in New Zealand through the new Business Investor Visa. Launching November 2025, it provides investors with clear, flexible routes to residency.
What is the new Business Investor Visa in NZ?
The Business Investor Visa (New Zealand) is a new pathway for skilled investors to purchase or invest in existing businesses and take an active management role.
Replacing the former Entrepreneur Work Visa, it offers two investment options:
- NZD $1 million for a 3‑year work‑to‑residence route
- NZD $2 million for a 12‑month fast‑track to residence
Applicants can include their families and later apply for permanent residence through the Business Investor Resident Visa. This visa aims to attract investors who contribute to New Zealand’s growth through business development and job creation.

Need help with your Business Investor Visa?
IMMagine Immigration offers a range of immigration services, including assistance with Business Investor Visa applications.
Eligibility for the Business Investor Visa
To be eligible for New Zealand’s Business Investor Visa, applicants must satisfy specific investment, financial, and personal criteria and take an active management role in a New Zealand business.
1
Applicants may choose to invest NZD $1 million for a three‑year work‑to‑residence route or NZD $2 million for a 12‑month accelerated pathway to New Zealand residence.
2
Applicants must show a minimum of NZD $500,000 in personal funds to support themselves and their family while setting up or managing their New Zealand business.
3
Applicants must be 55 years of age or younger when submitting their Business Investor Visa application.
4
Applicants need to meet the English language requirement, demonstrating proficiency at IELTS 5.0 or an equivalent level.
5
Applicants must satisfy health and character requirements as outlined by Immigration New Zealand.
6
Applicants are required to demonstrate relevant business experience that aligns with their intended investment or management role in New Zealand.
Applicants can either purchase a New Zealand business outright or acquire a minimum 25% ownership stake in an existing business that meets the required investment threshold.
How We Can Help You Obtain Your Visa
With more than 35 years of experience and over 30,000 successful migrations to Australia and New Zealand, IMMagine Immigration offers expert guidance for investors pursuing the Business Investor Visa.
Our licensed advisers provide:
- Eligibility assessments to identify the best investment pathway
- Tailored advice on selecting or purchasing a qualifying New Zealand business
- Comprehensive visa preparation and lodgement, ensuring all requirements are met
- Collaboration with local professionals, including brokers, accountants, and legal experts
- Family inclusion support and step‑by‑step assistance toward residence
From initial evaluation to final approval, IMMagine Immigration delivers complete, personalised support for a seamless transition to business and life in New Zealand.
Step by Step
Our Process

1. Free Eligibility Check
Complete our short questionnaire and attach your resume (or provide a summary of qualifications and work experience).
Within 48 working hours, we will provide a free written assessment of Visa options.

2. Online Consultation
Book a 75–90 minute paid online consultation to explore your visa options and get answers to all your questions.

3. Visa Application
Once you decide to proceed, we will handle the preparation and processing of your visa application.
Visa Investment Criteria
The business you invest in must meet the minimum investment threshold, employ at least five full‑time staff in New Zealand, and not operate in restricted sectors.
Excluded business types include:
- Drop‑shipping
- Gambling
- Tobacco, nicotine, or vaping product manufacturing
- Adult entertainment
- Convenience or discount stores
- Fast‑food outlets
- Franchised or home‑based businesses
- Immigration advisory firms or those associated with Licensed Immigration Advisers (LIAs)

Need help with your Business Investor Visa?
IMMagine Immigration offers a range of immigration services, including assistance with Business Investor Visa applications.
Visa Details
The application cost is NZD $12,380, which includes both the visa fee and the immigration levy.
The Business Investor Visa is valid for up to four years, allowing investors to live and work in New Zealand while managing their business.
The processing time for the Business Investor Visa is typically around 3 to 6 months from the date of submission.
Successful applicants may become eligible to apply for the Business Investor Resident Visa after meeting all investment and business requirements.
Need Help With Your Visa?
IMMagine Immigration offers a range of immigration services, including assistance with NZ work visas. Contact us today!


