New Zealand Golden Visa applications have surged after major updates to the Active Investor Plus Visa took effect on April 1, 2025. The revised New Zealand Golden Visa rules aim to attract wealthy foreign investors by simplifying the process, reducing barriers, and expanding investment options.
New Zealand Golden Visa Application Requirements Explained
Key changes include the removal of the English language requirement, making the visa accessible to non-English-speaking applicants. The investment system has been streamlined into two categories:
- Growth Category: NZD 5 million investment over 3 years; 21-day residency requirement.
- Balanced Category: NZD 10 million investment over 5 years; 105-day residency, with reduction options.
The Balanced Category now accepts property and bond investments, including residential and commercial developments. Investors must transfer and invest funds within six months of approval, with a one-time six-month extension possible.
Residency requirements have been reduced: 21 days over three years (Growth) and 105 days over five years (Balanced). Processing times have improved, with application decisions averaging 11 days.
According to Immigration New Zealand, 189 New Zealand Golden Visa applications were received in under three months, compared to 116 over two and a half years under the old system. So far, 100 applications have been approved in principle, and 7 investors have already transferred NZD 45 million. The pipeline shows potential investments of NZD 845 million.
The program offers residency for spouse and children under 24, with a pathway to citizenship after five years of permanent residency. Investors benefit from access to New Zealand’s education, healthcare, and tax policies, including no capital gains, wealth, or inheritance taxes.
The simplified New Zealand Golden Visa application process involves an online submission, documentation of legal fund sources, and completing investment post-approval. Using an immigration advisor is recommended for compliance.
New Zealand’s policy shift comes as countries like Spain and Portugal reduce similar programs. Investors prioritizing political and economic stability are showing increased interest in the updated visa structure.
For official details, visit the Immigration New Zealand website.
