Active Investor Plus Visa Requirements & Eligibility
Understanding the complete eligibility criteria for New Zealand's Active Investor Plus Visa programme.
NZ Golden Visa Requirements
Key eligibility criteria and requirements you must meet to apply for New Zealand's Golden Visa program.
Police certificates from all countries of citizenship and residence (12+ months in last 10 years). Must be less than 6 months old at time of application.
Chest X-ray and medical examination required. All applicants must be in good health to meet NZ Golden Visa requirements.
All businesses you have influence over must comply with immigration, employment, and taxation laws. No convictions for dishonesty or business fraud.
Comprehensive proof that investment funds were earned or acquired lawfully through tax returns, business statements, property sales, share trading, or inheritance.
Investments must be approved by Invest New Zealand, make commercial returns, and contribute to NZ economy. Cannot be for personal use.
Visa holders can buy or build one residential property valued at NZ$5 million or more. This benefit allows you to establish a home in New Zealand separate from your investment requirements.
NZ Golden Visa Cost & Processing Timeline
Application Fee
From NZD $27,470
Plus minimum $5M-$10M investment
Processing Time (Approval in Principle)
80% within 4 months
After approval in principle, you have 6 months to transfer and invest your funds in New Zealand. Extensions may be granted with reasonable justification and evidence of progress.
The New Zealand Golden Visa program, officially known as the Active Investor Plus Visa, requires applicants to meet strict eligibility criteria across investment capacity, character, health, and business experience. Below is a comprehensive overview of the requirements. You must also provide detailed source of funds documentation to prove the legal origin of your investment capital.
Residential Property Purchase Rights
As an Active Investor Plus Visa holder, you have the right to purchase or build one residential property valued at NZ$5 million or more in New Zealand. This benefit was introduced in September 2025 to allow investor residents to establish a more permanent connection to the country.
Important Considerations:
- Generally, overseas buyers cannot purchase residential property in New Zealand without meeting strict criteria
- Active Investor Plus visa holders are exempt for properties ≥NZ$5M
- You may need consent from Land Information New Zealand before purchasing
- This property is separate from your investment requirements and can be for personal use
For detailed guidance on purchasing property as an overseas investor, visit the Land Information New Zealand website or consult with a qualified property lawyer. If you're interested in purchasing property below $5 million, read our complete guide to the OIO "One Home to Live In" pathway.
Including Your Family
The Active Investor Plus Visa allows you to include your spouse or partner and dependent children in a single application. Your entire family can obtain New Zealand residency together, with no additional government fees beyond the main application.
Spouse/Partner Requirements
- Must have lived together for 12+ months
- Provide proof of genuine, stable relationship
- Meet health and character requirements
- Complete Resident Visa Declaration Form (INZ 1242)
Dependent Children Requirements
- Must be aged 24 years or younger
- Children 21-24 must prove financial dependency
- Provide birth certificates and custody documents
- Meet health and character requirements
Important Timeline Requirement
Your family must arrive in New Zealand within 12 months of the visa being granted. If they cannot travel within this timeframe, they will need to submit a new application. Children born after your approval in principle can be sponsored through the Dependent Child Resident Visa.
For comprehensive guidance on relocating with your family, including schools, healthcare, and settling in, visit our Family Relocation Guide.