New Zealand

New Zealand

Eases ‘golden visa’ rules to attract investors

09 Feb 2025

On 9 February 2025, New Zealand introduced significant changes to its "golden visa" program. Key changes include the following:

  • New investment categories and lower eligibility threshold: Previously, a single visa category required a minimum investment of NZ$15 million (approximately US$8,550,000) . Now, there are two categories (a) Growth Category: NZ$5 million (approximately US$2,850,000) over three years in high-risk investments, (b) Balanced Category: NZ$10 million (approximately US$5,700,000) over five years, allowing a mix of property, bonds, and shares. 
  • Relaxed residency requirements: Previously, investors had to spend 164 days over four years in New Zealand. Now, residency requirements vary (a) Growth Category: 21 days over three years, (b) Balanced Category: 105 days over five years. 
  • Expanded investment options: The old scheme excluded investments in bonds and property. Now, investors in the Balanced Category can invest in bonds, residential developments, and commercial properties. 
  • Removal of English language requirement: The previous scheme required proof of English proficiency. This has been removed, making it easier for non-English-speaking investors.
Nature of measure:
  • Facilitation
Type:
  • Promotion and facilitation (Investment facilitation )
Industry:
  • Not industry specific
Inward FDI:
No
Outward FDI:
No
Sources: