September's official INZ data shows 949 Active Investor Plus applications covering more than 3,000 people and around NZ$5.15 billion in pipeline and committed investment. Growth philanthropy rules are now in force, while further eligible-investment changes are scheduled for late 2026.
Immigration New Zealand's 24 September 2026 processing data records 949 applications covering more than 3,000 people since the April 2025 settings. The release reports 496 applications approved and approximately NZ$5.15 billion in pipeline and committed investment.
From 1 June 2026, Growth-category applicants may include qualifying philanthropic donations as part of their investment, subject to a 20% cap. Donations must meet the applicable New Zealand charity or Department of Conservation requirements and support causes in New Zealand.
Immigration instructions scheduled to take effect on 28 September 2026 further clarify eligible managed-fund and direct-investment settings. Applicants should check the current INZ instructions and obtain professional advice before relying on a qualifying-investment pathway.
Changes to the Active Investor Plus visa instructions took effect on 12 August 2026, clarifying how investors evidence the source and transfer of their funds, easing the managed-fund agreement requirement, and extending visa eligibility to children born after an investor visa is approved.
One year since the April 2025 reforms: NZ$4B in foreign funds committed, 659 applications from 2,155 people, first South Island property deal in Queenstown, Invest NZ managed funds controversy, and processing times slow to 35 working days.
Immigration Minister Erica Stanford confirms Active Investor Plus programme review underway after concerns about investor funds sitting idle in cash within managed funds. DIMS licensing option closed, further policy changes possible.