New Zealand

Residence by Investment Framework

Residency in New Zealand appeals to investors seeking safety, natural beauty, and strong lifestyle benefits. The New Zealand Residence by Investment Program, also known as the New Zealand Golden Visa, allows foreign investors and their families to secure long-term residence in one of the world’s most stable and prosperous countries.

Framework for Acquiring New Zealand Residency Through Investment.

New Zealand’s Residence by Investment Program offers foreign nationals and their families the opportunity to obtain permanent residence by making a substantial qualifying investment into the country. This pathway, often referred to as the New Zealand Golden Visa, is designed to attract high-net-worth individuals who can contribute to the local economy while gaining long-term settlement benefits.

Investment Requirement

Minimum qualifying investment: NZD 5 million

Core Advantage

Eligible investors can secure residency leading to permanent settlement , Spouse/partner and dependent children can be included in the same application , Safe environment, natural beauty, and world-class healthcare and education , New Zealand residents enjoy broad mobility benefits worldwide and Visa-Free Travel , After meeting residence and physical presence requirements, citizenship becomes possible.

Discover the New Zealand Active Investor Plus Visa Program

The Active Investor Plus Visa, introduced in September 2022, replaced earlier investor visa options. It is designed to attract international investors who contribute to the local economy. The program grants residence rights to applicants and their families, allowing them to live, work, and study in New Zealand.

Advantages of New Zealand Residence by Investment

New Zealand offers an attractive environment for long-term settlement. Its strong institutions and high quality of life make it a preferred destination.

High living standards and low population density
Multicultural society with strong social stability
Spouse and dependent children up to age 24 included in residence
Access to well-regarded schools and universities
Stable political and legal system rooted in English law
No capital gains tax, no estate or wealth tax

We make sure families benefit from a smooth and transparent relocation process.

Eligibility Criteria for New Zealand Residence by Investment

Applicants must meet one of two financial categories, each with specific rules.

Growth Category

Minimum NZD 5 million investment in approved managed funds or business ventures
Hold investment for 3 years
Spend at least 21 days in New Zealand during this period

Balanced Category

Minimum NZD 10 million investment across a broader range of eligible assets
Hold investment for 5 years
Spend at least 105 days in New Zealand across the investment period, with reductions available for larger investments

Our experts ensure that investments are structured correctly and comply with New Zealand Trade & Enterprise standards.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the New Zealand Residence by Investment Program

The process is straightforward when managed carefully.

Complete and submit application forms with government fees
Provide all required supporting documents
Receive visa approval and move with family within 12 months
Maintain the required investment and meet the minimum time-in-country rules
Apply for permanent residence once the investment period is complete

We make sure each stage is handled securely, with no unnecessary delays.

Pathway to Citizenship Following the Active Investor Plus Visa Program

After 5 years of residence, applicants can apply for citizenship. The New Zealand passport ranks among the top 10 worldwide and provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 180 destinations.

Our specialists guide applicants through the transition from residence to citizenship, ensuring a simple and transparent process.

Why Partner with Globalhenel

Globalhenel offers expertise in international residence and citizenship programs.

Personalized support for investors and families
Clear guidance on investment options and compliance
Transparent, reliable, and secure handling of applications

We make sure every client receives professional advice tailored to their goals.

How long must I hold my investment?

Three years for the Growth Category, five years for the Balanced Category.

Can my family join me under this program?

Yes, your spouse and dependent children up to 24 years old are included.

Do I need to live full-time in New Zealand?

No, you must meet the minimum day requirements but you are not required to remain year-round.

When can I apply for citizenship?

After 5 years of residence and meeting the conditions set by the New Zealand government.

Can I buy property as an investor visa holder?

Yes, but restrictions apply until you have been physically present in New Zealand for 183 days in the previous 12 months and qualify as a tax resident.

We make sure you receive accurate answers and practical guidance throughout your journey.

Overview of the New Zealand Residence by Investment Program

The Active Investor Plus Visa, introduced in September 2022, replaced earlier investor visa schemes. It gives investors and their families the right to live, work, and study in New Zealand. Applicants must meet investment and residency requirements to maintain their status.

We make sure the process is simple, secure, and transparent from application to final approval.

Investment Options Under the Active Investor Plus Visa Program

Applicants can choose between two categories:

Growth Category: Requires NZD 5 million in approved managed funds or direct business ventures. Investments must be maintained for 3 years with a stay of at least 21 days in the country.
Balanced Category: Requires NZD 10 million across a wider range of investments such as equities, bonds, funds, property development, and philanthropy. Investments must be maintained for 5 years with at least 105 days spent in New Zealand.

Our experts ensure your investments meet official standards and are structured correctly.

Advantages of Obtaining New Zealand Residence Through Investment

New Zealand combines lifestyle quality with institutional reliability. Benefits include:

High standard of living and safe environment
Stable political and legal system based on English law
No wealth, estate, or capital gains taxes
Spouse and dependent children up to age 24 included
Access to high-quality education and healthcare

We make sure families understand the benefits and gain full use of their residence rights.

Minimum Contribution or Investment Needed to Qualify

Growth Category: Minimum of NZD 5 million
Balanced Category: Minimum of NZD 10 million

We make sure you are matched with the correct category based on your financial profile.

Standard Processing Timeline for Applications

The timeframe depends on application completeness and review speed. Key stages include:

Submission of application with fees and documents
Assessment and approval in principle
Verification of investments before visa grant
Transition to residence within months of compliance

We make sure applications are correctly filed to reduce waiting times.

Residency Obligations for Applicants

Applicants must spend time in New Zealand during their investment term.

Growth Category: Minimum of 21 days over 3 years
Balanced Category: Minimum of 105 days over 5 years, with flexibility for larger contributions
Families must enter New Zealand within 12 months of visa grant

We make sure obligations are met so residence remains valid and secure.

Required Documentation for Application Submission

Documents typically required include:

Completed application forms and payment receipts
Proof of funds and investment source
Valid passports and ID records
Health certificates and police clearances
Evidence of family ties for dependents

Our team ensures documents are accurate and compliant with government standards.

New Zealand Residence by Investment Program and Active Investor Plus Visa

The Investment program allows qualified investors to obtain residence through structured contributions to the New Zealand economy. The Active Investor Plus Visa is the official entry route, defining the rules and requirements for long-term settlement.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the Active Investor Plus Visa

Select the investment category suitable to your capacity.
Gather required documents and pay the government fee.
Submit the application to the authorities.
Receive approval in principle and allocate funds to eligible investments.
Meet residency obligations during the holding period.
Apply for permanent residence after the investment term ends.
Apply for citizenship after 5 years of residence.

We make sure each step is clear and managed securely, helping applicants move from temporary residence to citizenship without obstacles.