Active Investor Plus Visa updates: changes to investment rules and flexibility

New Zealand has taken a bold step in strengthening its Active Investor Plus Visa program, with targeted changes from 9 June 2025 that refine investment pathways and unlock new options for high-value investors. From stricter rules on how funds are allocated to greater flexibility for backing property development ventures, these reforms reflect the Government’s focus on productive, future-focused investment. 

Whether you’re already a visa holder, preparing your application, or advising international investors, it’s essential to understand these updates, including the 75/25 split for on-call investments and voluntary transition options for pre-9 June applicants. 

What is the Active Investor Plus Visa? 

The Active Investor Plus Visa is New Zealand’s flagship residence pathway for high-net-worth individuals who want to invest significantly in the local economy. As of 1 April 2025, there are two categories: 

• Growth category: invest NZD $5 million over 3 years in direct investments or managed funds. Requires just 21 days of physical presence in New Zealand across the 3-year period. 

• Balanced category: invest NZD $10 million over 5 years in a wider mix of assets, including listed equities, bonds, eligible property development, and philanthropic investments. Requires 105 days of physical presence (reducible for higher investments). 

Both categories offer a pathway to permanent residence for the investor and their immediate family and have no English language requirement. Funds must be legally sourced, transferred within six months of approval, and maintained for the full investment term. 

What changed from 9 June 2025? 

Two major policy clarifications were introduced by Immigration New Zealand on 9 June: 

• On-call investment requirements: under the updated instructions, no more than 25% of an investor’s committed capital may be held in a New Zealand bank account (including cash accounts) or term deposits. At least 75% must now be invested in listed equities or bonds. This replaces the earlier setting that allowed up to 100% of the committed funds to be held in bank accounts or term deposits for up to six months. 

• Property development investment flexibility: Active Investor Plus Visa holders can now invest in New Zealand companies engaged in property development activities, provided all other visa criteria are met. This provides new options for those seeking diversified portfolios while maintaining a focus on productive economic activity. 

These changes were explained in detail by Immigration New Zealand through an official video session, now available via YouTube: Watch the update. 

Key visa settings that remain the same 

While the 9 June 2025 updates refine how investments can be structured, the core eligibility criteria and visa framework remain unchanged. Investors are still required to: 

• Meet the minimum investment amounts: NZD $5 million (Growth) or NZD $10 million (Balanced) 

• Commit to the investment timeframe: 3 or 5 years, depending on the chosen category 

• Maintain the investment for the full duration 

• Comply with physical presence requirements in New Zealand 

• Demonstrate the lawful source and transfer of funds 

The recent changes focus on clarifying how capital must be allocated within that overall framework, especially regarding low-risk holdings and acceptable property investments without altering the fundamental structure of the visa or investor responsibilities. 

Visa variations for pre-9 June applicants 

Applicants who submitted their Active Investor Plus Visa applications before 9 June 2025 and receive visa approval will remain subject to the previous investment rules. 

However, Immigration New Zealand is offering these visa holders the opportunity to request a variation of conditions at no cost. If approved, their visa will align with the updated settings. These individuals must: 

• Continue to meet pre-9 June requirements until the variation is granted. 

• Once approved, adjust their investments within 30 calendar days to comply with the new 75/25 investment rule. 

Immigration New Zealand will directly contact eligible visa holders or their authorised representatives with instructions for submitting the variation request. 

Additional clarifications addressed 

In its latest information session, Immigration New Zealand also addressed frequently asked questions around: 

• The treatment of accrued interest on bank deposits and how it factors into investment calculations. 

• Requirements for investment improvement plans, which may be needed depending on investment structure and risk. 

• Procedures for staged fund releases, applicable when capital is disbursed to various investments over time. 

These clarifications were designed to reduce confusion and improve investor compliance with the visa framework. 

Preparing for investor visa changes in New Zealand 

The recent updates reshape how investor capital must be structured and open new pathways for engagement in property development. For investors, businesses, and advisors, understanding these changes is critical to maintaining compliance and making informed, future-proof decisions. 

Whether you’re exploring eligibility or restructuring an existing portfolio, now is the time to act. We’re here to help you make confident investment decisions that align with New Zealand’s evolving investor visa pathway. Contact our team at aisupport@absoluteimmigration.com for tailored advice and strategic immigration support.