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If you’ve ever dreamed of living in a peaceful country with a strong economy, friendly people, and a beautiful natural environment, then New Zealand might already be on your list. For people who want to invest and build a business there, the Investor Work Visa can be your perfect gateway. In 2025, the New Zealand introduced this visa to attract global business professionals who can contribute to its economy.

In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the Investor Work Visa, including who can apply, how much to invest, what documents you’ll need, and how it connects with the New Zealand eTA Application for short-term travel.

What is the Investor Work Visa?

The Investor Work Visa is a new immigration pathway designed for people who want to invest in and run a business in New Zealand. Unlike traditional investor visas where you only put money into funds, this one expects you to be actively involved in running the business.

This visa helps successful entrepreneurs or business owners move to New Zealand with their families while operating a business that supports local jobs and adds value to the economy. Once you meet all the conditions, you can even apply for residence and make New Zealand your new home.

The applications for this visa will officially open on 24 November 2025, and it will have clear investment levels, business rules, and a simple structure to follow.

Why is New Zealand launching this visa?

New Zealand wants to encourage experienced entrepreneurs and investors to bring their business skills and money to the country. This move helps grow industries, create more local jobs, and strengthen New Zealand’s economy.

In the past, there were other investor visas, but they were often complicated or too strict. The Investor Work Visa has been created to make the process easier, faster, and fairer for genuine investors who are serious about contributing.

If you have experience running a company and the financial ability to invest, this visa can open new opportunities for you and your family.

Key requirements for the Investor Work Visa

To apply for the Investor Work Visa, you need to meet certain investment and business requirements. Let’s look at them in simple terms:

1. Investment amount

There are two main options:

• Tier 1: Invest NZD $1 million in a qualified business. You’ll need to run the business for at least three years before applying for residence. 
• Tier 2: Invest NZD $2 million and you may become eligible for residence after just 12 months if you meet all the conditions. 

2. Business rules

• The business you invest in must be at least five years old and already operating successfully. 
• You must actively manage the business, not just own it. 
• The business should create at least one new full-time job for a New Zealand citizen or resident. 
• Certain types of businesses like gambling, tobacco, or small retail shops (for example convenience stores or fast-food outlets) are not allowed. 

3. Applicant eligibility

• You should be under 55 years old at the time of applying. 
• You need business experience, such as owning or managing a company with a good turnover or multiple staff members. 
• You must show that you have enough money to invest and to support yourself and your family. Usually, at least NZD $500,000 in savings is recommended. 
• You’ll also need to pass health and character checks.

Step-by-step process to apply

Here’s how you can plan your journey under the Investor Work Visa program:

Step 1: Research and visit

Before making an investment, it’s smart to visit New Zealand and explore the business environment. For this purpose, you might need to complete a New Zealand eTA Application, which allows you to travel for short visits and business meetings.

Step 2: Choose your business

Find an existing company that meets all the visa requirements. It should be operating legally, have at least five years of business history, and be in a permitted sector.

Step 3: Prepare your documents

You’ll need to prepare a business plan, financial statements, proof of your investment funds, background checks, and details of your business experience.

Step 4: Submit your application

Once applications open on 24 November 2025, you can officially apply for the Investor Work Visa through the Immigration New Zealand portal.

Step 5: Move and invest

After getting approval, you’ll move to New Zealand, invest the required amount, and start operating the business as planned.

Step 6: Apply for residence

If you maintain your investment and meet all the requirements (either 12 months or three years depending on your tier), you can apply for residence and settle permanently in New Zealand.

Benefits of the Investor Work Visa

1. Pathway to permanent residence – Once you complete your work visa phase, you can apply for residence for you and your family. 
2. Family included – Your spouse and dependent children can live, study, and work in New Zealand with you. 
3. Strong economy – New Zealand is stable, safe, and offers excellent infrastructure for businesses. 
4. Quality of life – Clean environment, great schools, friendly people, and balanced lifestyle. 
5. Global opportunity – Being in New Zealand connects you to other Asia-Pacific markets.

Things to consider before applying

While this visa offers many advantages, you should also be aware of some challenges:

• Running a business overseas means adapting to new tax systems, laws, and market conditions. 
• The Investor Work Visa requires active participation—you can’t just invest and forget about it. 
• Make sure your investment funds are legitimate and easily transferable to New Zealand. 
• Immigration policies can change, so always check the official Immigration New Zealand website before applying. 
• It’s wise to consult a licensed immigration adviser or lawyer before submitting your application.

How the New Zealand eTA Application fits in

If you plan to travel to New Zealand temporarily before applying for the Investor Work Visa, you might need to complete the New Zealand eTA Application. The eTA is an electronic travel authority that allows you to enter the country for short business or tourism visits.

Many investors first visit New Zealand using an eTA to meet potential business partners, see locations, and understand the market before investing large amounts. This short visit helps build confidence and ensures you’re making the right decision.

Final thoughts

The Investor Work Visa is a golden opportunity for people who wish to expand their business horizons and settle in one of the world’s most peaceful and prosperous nations. It not only allows you to invest but also gives you the chance to live, work, and grow alongside your family in New Zealand.

Remember, success depends on preparation. Take time to research, visit the country through a New Zealand eTA Application if needed, find the right business, and prepare all your documents carefully.

By doing so, you’ll be ready to confidently take your next step toward a new beginning in New Zealand. With the Investor Work Visa, your global business dream can soon become a reality.