New Business Investor Visa to open November: new pathways to residence

The New Zealand Government has confirmed a major update to its business immigration settings with the introduction of the Business Investor Visa, a new pathway for experienced investors ready to invest in, operate, and grow established businesses. Applications will officially open in November 2025, offering migrants with capital and proven business expertise a clear route to residence.

Replacing the long-standing Entrepreneur Work Visa, which has now closed to new applications, the Business Investor Visa represents a sharper focus on attracting investors who bring both funding and operational experience. It complements April’s refresh of the Active Investor Plus Visa and is designed to stimulate economic growth by supporting job creation, productivity, and innovation.

Visa options and residence pathways

The Business Investor Visa provides two investment options for applicants:

• $1 million investment in an existing business, leading to a 3-year work-to-residence pathway
• $2 million investment in an existing business, with a 12-month fast-track to residence pathway

Applicants can either acquire a business outright or purchase at least 25% of an established business to meet the minimum investment threshold. Both options provide a direct pathway to the Business Investor Resident Visa, with visas granted for up to four years.

Family members can be included in applications, and the total cost of the visa, including the levy, is NZD $12,380.

Eligibility requirements

To qualify for the Business Investor Visa, applicants must:

• meet the investment threshold of NZD $1m or $2m
• demonstrate at least NZD $500,000 in maintenance funds
• be aged 55 or younger
• meet English language standards (IELTS 5.0 or equivalent)
• satisfy health, character, and business experience criteria
• invest in a business that employs at least 5 full-time equivalent staff

Certain sectors and business types will not be accepted, including gambling, drop-shipping, tobacco or vaping products, adult entertainment, convenience stores, discount outlets, franchised or home-based businesses, and those involving immigration advisory services.

Closure of the Entrepreneur Work Visa

The Entrepreneur Work Visa category has now closed to new applications, marking the end of an era for New Zealand’s previous business migration pathway. The Government cited low volumes, high decline rates, and weak economic returns as key reasons for its retirement.

• If you currently hold an Entrepreneur Work Visa: you may continue on your pathway and renew your visa if more time is needed to meet residence requirements.
• If you have lodged an application: Immigration New Zealand will continue to process it under the original rules. However, withdrawals will not qualify for refunds.
• The Entrepreneur Resident Visa remains open, ensuring that existing visa holders can still transition to residence if they meet the criteria.

Looking ahead

The Business Investor Visa forms part of a broader, modernised business visa framework designed to attract experienced entrepreneurs and investors. Work is also underway on a future visa pathway for startup entrepreneurs with innovative, scalable business ideas.

By targeting investors with proven capital and operational expertise, New Zealand aims to strengthen its business ecosystem, create jobs, and generate long-term economic benefits. Additional details, including a comparison with the Active Investor Plus Visa, are expected to be released before applications open.

Need support with the new Business Investor Visa?

At Absolute Immigration, we recognise the importance of setting the right strategy from the outset. Whether you are preparing to invest, applying for a work-to-residence pathway, or pursuing the fast-track to residence, our team provides trusted, strategic guidance at every stage.

We assist investors, business owners, and their families to navigate the process with clarity and confidence, ensuring applications meet all requirements and are positioned for successful outcomes in New Zealand.

Contact us at aisupport@absoluteimmigration.com for expert advice tailored to your goals.