New Business Investor Work Visa Opens Pathway to Residence in New Zealand

New Zealand is welcoming experienced business investors to contribute to its growing economy through the new Business Investor Work Visa, opening for applications on 24 November 2025.

This visa allows eligible investors to invest in or expand established New Zealand businesses creating jobs, driving innovation, and ultimately offering a pathway to residence for those ready to make New Zealand their new home.

The visa is valid for up to 4 years and applicants can include their partner and dependent children in their application.

Applicants can choose from two investment pathways:

• NZD 1 million investment: Work-to-residence pathway over 3 years

• NZD 2 million investment: Fast-track residence eligibility after just 12 months

To qualify, applicants must:

• Invest in a business operating for at least 5 years

• Meet the minimum investment of NZD 1 million or NZD 2 million

• Hold at least NZD 500,000 in reserve funds for personal and family support

• Have proven business experience, such as owning a business with:

  • At least 5 full-time employees, or

  • Annual revenue of NZD 1 million

• Be 55 years or younger

• Meet English language, health, and character requirements

Certain types of businesses are excluded from this visa, including:

• Convenience stores and discount shops

• Drop-shipping operations

• Fast food and takeaway outlets

• Gambling or tobacco-related businesses (including vaping)

• Adult entertainment

• Home-based or franchised businesses

• Immigration advisory services

Once the business has been operated successfully for the required period, investors may apply for the Business Investor Resident Visa.

To qualify, applicants must:

• Remain actively involved in running the business

• Maintain the same ownership share

• Employ at least 5 full-time equivalent workers

• Create and sustain at least 1 full-time job for a New Zealand citizen or resident (lasting at least 12 months)

• Prove the business is financially stable and solvent

• Meet residency requirements (minimum 184 days spent in NZ each year for 3 years)

• Continue to meet health and character standards

New Zealand offers one of the world’s most stable business environments, with a strong economy, low corruption, and welcoming immigration policies for genuine investors.

Through this visa, business professionals can live, work, and grow in New Zealand while contributing to its vibrant economic landscape with a clear pathway toward residency and long-term settlement.

At SOL Edu & Migration Services, our experienced migration consultants can guide you through every step from assessing your eligibility to preparing your investment and visa application.

Contact us today to explore how the Business Investor Work Visa can help you make New Zealand your next home.