New Zealand’s “golden visa” programme has seen a strong response in its first year. The country has received nearly NZ$4 billion (around $2.4 billion USD) in total investments and commitments from wealthy individuals who want to settle there.

The government shared that about NZ$1.49 billion has already been invested, while another NZ$2.415 billion is either approved or still in process. This shows that the programme is quickly gaining attention from global investors.

What Is New Zealand’s AIP (Golden Visa)?

New Zealand offers a special visa called the Active Investor Plus (AIP) visa.

This visa allows rich individuals from other countries to get residency by investing money in New Zealand’s economy. The goal is simply to bring in foreign money to support business growth and create jobs.

The programme was updated in April 2025 to make it more attractive and easier to apply.

How Much Investment Is Required?

There are two main options under this visa :

1. Growth Category
  • Minimum investment: NZ$5 million
  • Time period: 3 years
  • Focus: Higher-risk investments like companies and business funds
    • 2. Balanced Category
  • Minimum investment: NZ$10 million
  • Time period: 5 years
  • Focus: Safer and more stable investments

    • The government has also made some rules easier :

  • No English language requirement
  • Less time needed to stay in New Zealand

    • Who Can Apply?

    This visa is mainly for :

  • High-net-worth individuals
  • Business owners
  • Global investors

    • If approved, the applicant can bring :

  • Spouse or partner
  • Children under 24 years

    • They will get residency rights, which means they can :

  • Live in New Zealand
  • Work or start a business
  • Study
  • Travel freely

    • Why Is This Visa Getting Popular?

    The main reason is flexibility and fewer restrictions. Many investors find it easier compared to similar visas in other countries.

    So far :

  • More than 600 applications have been received
  • Around 2,000 people are included in these applications

    • Countries with the highest interest :

  • United States
  • China
  • Hong Kong
  • Germany
  • Taiwan

    • India has also shown small interest with a few applications.

    Government’s View on the Programme

    Immigration Minister Erica Stanford said the programme is already helping businesses.

    One example is a company in Dunedin that makes special parts for aerospace and medical use. With funding from this visa programme, the company is expanding and creating new jobs.

    The government believes this type of investment helps businesses grow without giving away ownership.

    How Does It Compare With Other Countries?

    Many countries offer similar “golden visa” programmes, including :

  • Portugal
  • Greece
  • Spain
  • United States
  • Singapore

    • These programmes are used to attract foreign money, especially when economies need support.

    However, some countries have started to limit or stop such visas. The reason is concerns like :

  • Rising property prices
  • Benefits mostly going to wealthy people
  • Limited long-term impact

    • Final Thoughts

    New Zealand’s golden visa programme is clearly attracting strong interest from global investors. With relaxed rules and flexible options, it has become an appealing choice for people looking to invest and settle abroad.

    At the same time, like other countries, its long-term success will depend on how well these investments support real economic growth and benefit the wider population.

    Want to apply for New Zealand’s Golden Visa? Contact Us today for expert guidance.