- Lower Barriers – No English requirement, fewer physical presence days.
- New Investment Categories – Growth (NZ$5M, 3 years, high-risk direct investment) vs. Balanced (NZ$10M, 5 years, mixed investments).
- Economic Strategy – Aligns with New Zealand’s push to counteract recessionary trends and attract global capital.
- Tied to the Digital Nomad Initiative – Expanding beyond investors to remote professionals.
In a move aimed at attracting more foreign investment, New Zealand has relaxed its “golden visa” rules for wealthy individuals seeking second residency through investment. While several countries, including the United Kingdom, Portugal, and Greece, are tightening their golden visa programs, New Zealand is simplifying its criteria to make it easier for foreign investors to gain residency.
Starting April 1, New Zealand will implement the new “Active Investor Plus Visa” with simplified investment rules. The changes include the removal of the complex, multi-tiered matrix and the English proficiency requirement, making the process more accessible for international investors.
Two Investment Categories Introduced
The new visa introduces two categories for investors: “growth” and “balanced.” Under the growth category, investors will need to commit NZ$5 million (approximately Rs 25 crore) for three years in high-risk investments such as managed funds and direct business investments. In return, they will be required to spend a minimum of 21 days in the country during the investment period.
The balanced category, for relatively less risky investments, requires a higher minimum investment of NZ$10 million (about Rs 50 crore) for five years. This can include investments in listed equities, bonds, and philanthropic activities. Investors in this category will be required to spend at least 105 days in New Zealand, although this requirement could be relaxed depending on the investment type and amount.
Rohit Bhardwaj, Country Head India at Henley & Partners, noted that the government has now expanded the types of investments accepted under the balanced category, including bonds and property development.
Aiming for Economic Growth
The new measures are designed to attract more foreign capital, particularly in light of recent economic slowdowns and a decline in investor visa applications. Currently, the investment threshold for these visas ranges from NZ$5 million to NZ$15 million, with different weightings depending on the type of investment. Direct investments into private businesses, for example, receive a higher weighting, potentially allowing investors to meet the required amount with a smaller initial investment.
Opportunities for Indian Investors
The changes may also provide a valuable opportunity for wealthy Indians looking to relocate abroad. Many affluent Indians aspire to move to English-speaking countries, particularly those in the Commonwealth, for benefits such as international education for their children.
Bhardwaj highlighted that, with some countries limiting work opportunities for international students, obtaining residency by investment may become an appealing option for affluent Indian families seeking education and security abroad.
Easier Access, But Investment Thresholds Remain High
Despite the simplification, the NZ$5 million minimum investment remains a significant hurdle. For Indian nationals, capital controls in India—such as the Reserve Bank of India’s Liberalised Remittance Scheme ceiling of $250,000 per year—could pose challenges when meeting the minimum investment requirements.
While New Zealand’s golden visa still demands a substantial financial commitment compared to other countries, such as the US EB-5 visa program (which requires a minimum investment of $800,000), it may be more accessible for global investors with diversified international assets.
Vishal Dhawan, founder of Plan Ahead Wealth Advisors, noted that Indian families aiming to meet New Zealand’s investment requirements over multiple years may face challenges, especially if they are starting from scratch. However, those who have already planned their investments over time may find the process more manageable.
A Move to Attract Global Capital
Karan Agarwal, Director at Cox & Kings, welcomed the changes, stating that the policy shifts reflect New Zealand’s intention to attract global capital and encourage long-term economic contributions. While tourist visa rejection rates remain steady, the simplified investor visa process opens new doors for those looking to establish a long-term presence in the country.
The reforms are set to position New Zealand as a desirable destination for high-net-worth individuals seeking residency and a stable economic environment to support their future growth.
