Business Investment Visa NZ

Your Pathway to New Zealand Residency Through Investment

Why Choose the Business Investment Visa in NZ?

New Zealand is opening new doors for global entrepreneurs and investors with the launch of the Business Investment Visa in New Zealand in November 2025. This visa provides a streamlined pathway to live, work, and eventually gain residence in one of the world’s most beautiful, stable economies.

Whether you’re seeking long-term growth or a fast-track option, this visa allows you to establish or invest in a genuine New Zealand business while building a future for you and your family. With clear investment thresholds and flexible pathways, the Business Investment Visa NZ offers opportunities tailored to different investor goals.

Visa Requirements for the Business Investor Visa

To qualify for the Business Investment Visa in NZ, applicants must meet specific investment, financial, and personal requirements. These ensure that successful applicants are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to New Zealand’s economy.

Investment Pathways

You can choose between two clear options:

Work-to-Residence (3 years): Invest NZD $1 million in an existing New Zealand business.
Fast-Track to Residence (12 months): Invest NZD $2 million in an existing New Zealand business.

In both cases, you can either acquire 100% ownership of a business or hold at least 25% ownership, provided you meet the investment threshold. Successful applicants may later apply for the Business Investor Resident Visa, ensuring a long-term future in New Zealand

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants for the Business Investor Visa must:

Invest the minimum threshold amount (NZD $1m or $2m).
Hold at least NZD $500,000 in settlement funds for themselves and their family.
Be 55 years or younger at the time of application.
Meet English language requirements (IELTS 5 or equivalent).
Satisfy health and character checks.
Demonstrate relevant business experience.
Invest in a business employing at least five full-time staff.

Excluded Business Types

Not all businesses are eligible. The following are excluded:

Drop-shipping operations.
Gambling, tobacco/nicotine, or adult entertainment businesses.
Convenience stores, discount/value shops, or fast-food outlets.
Franchises and home-based businesses.
Businesses linked to immigration advisory services..

Fees & Family Inclusions to Apply for a Business Investor Visa

Visa application fee: NZD $12,380.
Applicants can include their partner and dependent children under the same application.

How McSweeney Immigration Law Can Help

Securing a Business Investment Visa in NZ involves more than just meeting the financial criteria - it requires precise planning, accurate documentation, and a clear strategy to maximise your chance of success.

At McSweeney Immigration Law, we specialise in guiding entrepreneurs and investors through every stage of the application. Here’s how we help:

Tailored Advice: We match your business and personal goals with the right investment pathway, giving you clear direction and confidence from the start.
Application Preparation: We handle all financial and business documents, ensuring your application is complete, accurate, and set up for success.
Expert Advocacy: We guide you through the process, help address potential issues early, and work to minimise the risk of delays or mistakes.

By choosing McSweeney Immigration Law, you’re choosing a trusted partner who understands the complexities of the immigration process in New Zealand and is committed to achieving the best outcome for you and your family.

More Ways to Invest in New Zealand

If you’re interested in securing residency through investment but without running or buying a business, the New Zealand Active Investor Plus may be a better fit. This visa (also commonly known as the New Zealand Golden Visa) focuses on direct financial investment in New Zealand rather than business ownership.

Contact McSweeney Immigration Law to find out if the NZ Investor Visa is the right pathway for your goals.

Next Steps

Our NZ Immigration experts will ensure you are well-prepared and confident in your application for the Business Investment Visa NZ. With expert support, your pathway to living and investing in New Zealand can be smoother, faster, and more secure.

Book a 1:1 consultation with one of our immigration experts in minutes, and get the guidance you need to confidently start your Business Investment Visa NZ application.

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