New Zealand Relaxes Visa Rules to Lure Foreign Investors, Boost Economy

Auckland, New Zealand — Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced on Friday, February 9, that New Zealand will relax its visa rules to attract more foreign investors, part of a broader effort to stimulate economic growth.

The changes aim to simplify and expand the Active Investor Plus visa category, which grants residency to wealthy foreigners who invest in local businesses. The new categories, set to take effect on April 1, are designed to encourage higher-risk and mixed investments, with lower barriers to entry.

Luxon stated, ‘We are now making our investor visa simpler and more flexible to incentivize investors to choose New Zealand as a destination not just for their capital, skills, and international connections, but to build a life for themselves and their families here.’

Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis noted that investments under the previous government dropped significantly, from $2.2 billion pre-COVID to just $70 million. The new policies aim to reverse this trend and attract foreign capital to boost New Zealand’s economy.

The ‘Growth’ category requires a minimum $5 million investment over three years, focusing on higher-risk ventures. The ‘Balanced’ category mandates a $10 million investment over five years, allowing for mixed-risk investments. Both categories remove the English language requirement, which previously deterred potential investors.

Erica Stanford, Immigration Minister, emphasized that New Zealand is open for business and ready to welcome investors who will contribute to the country’s growth and prosperity.

These changes are part of a series of measures to attract foreign investment, including allowing remote work for tourists and establishing Invest New Zealand to promote the country as an investment destination.