The New Zealand Government has recently announced significant changes to business immigration. The Entrepreneur Work Visa is now closed, and a new Business Investor Work Visa will open for applications from November 2025. This updated visa option is designed to attract experienced investors who will actively contribute to New Zealand’s economy by investing in and running businesses.

What Is the Business Investor Work Visa?

The Business Investor Work Visa offers two pathways for investors who wish to live and invest in New Zealand:

1. $1 Million Investment Option
   • Invest NZD $1 million in an existing business.
   • Pathway: 3-year work-to-residence.
2. $2 Million Investment Option
   • Invest NZD $2 million in an existing business.
   • Pathway: 12-month fast-track to residence.

      Applicants can either purchase a business outright or acquire at least 25% ownership, provided they meet the minimum investment threshold. The visa allows inclusion of the investor’s partner and dependent children, and is valid for up to 4 years.

     The total visa cost is NZD $12,380, which covers both the visa application fee and the immigration levy.

This new visa complements the recently updated Active Investor Plus Visa and forms part of broader reforms to attract business investment, talent, and international connections.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for the Business Investor Work Visa, applicants must:

• Meet the minimum investment of NZD $1M or $2M.
• Have at least NZD $500,000 available to support themselves and their family during the business setup.
• Be aged 55 or younger.
• Meet English language requirements (IELTS 5.0 or equivalent).
• Meet health and character requirements.
• Demonstrate relevant business experience.
• Invest in a business that employs at least 5 full-time equivalent staff.

What Types of Businesses Are Not Eligible?

Investments are not accepted in businesses involved in:

• Drop-shipping
• Gambling
• Manufacturing of tobacco or other nicotine-based products (including vaping)
• Adult entertainment
• Convenience stores (e.g., corner dairies)
• Immigration advisory services or businesses involving Licensed Immigration Advisers
• Discount or value stores (e.g., $2 shops)
• Fast food outlets
• Franchised businesses
• Home-based businesses

Closure of Entrepreneur Work Visa

The Entrepreneur Work Visa category is now closed to new applications.

• Applications already submitted will be processed under the previous rules.
• Holders of Entrepreneur Work Visas can still apply for residence via the Entrepreneur Resident Visa.
• Work visa renewals remain available for those needing more time to meet residence requirements.

Next Steps

      The new Business Investor Work Visa opens in November 2025. If you’re planning to apply, you’ll need to submit a new application and pay the standard fees and levies.

We will share further updates and detailed guidance in October, including a full comparison between the Business Investor Work Visa and the Active Investor Plus Visa.

Click Here for the official announcement on the Immigration New Zealand website.

At Eco Migration NZ, we use relevant legislation and tailored strategies to present your case in the strongest possible way.

Stay informed. Stay prepared. And if you need expert immigration advice, contact us today.

Eco Migration Limited
info@ecomigration.co.nz