The New Zealand Entrepreneur Work Visa was implemented at the end of March 2014, utilizing a points-based system to replace the previous entrepreneur immigration policy. This category awards points based on the applicant's age, business experience, number of employees hired in New Zealand, export potential, innovation, fixed asset investment, whether the business is established outside of Auckland, and market research. Applicants must invest at least 100,000 NZD (excluding working capital) into the business; investments of 200,000 NZD or more receive additional points. Upon reaching a total of 120 points, applicants may apply for an Entrepreneur Work Visa, and after two years of self-employment, they may apply for permanent residency.
New Zealand investment immigration is divided into the 10 million NZD investment category (Investor 1 Category) and the 3 million NZD investment category (Investor 2 Category). Eligible investments include New Zealand government bonds, funds, stocks, venture capital, or non-self-build property development. As with other categories, one application covers the entire family.
Requirements for the Investor 1 Category
The minimum investment amount is 10 million NZD. This category has no requirements regarding age, business experience, or English proficiency. As long as the applicant can demonstrate the legal source of the 10 million NZD (which may include inheritance or gifts from parents, relatives, or friends) and meets health and character requirements, the investment immigration application will be approved. Once the visa is approved, the principal applicant has one year (with the possibility of a 12-month extension) to transfer the funds to New Zealand for investment, and the investment must be maintained for three years. Additionally, the principal applicant must reside in New Zealand for at least 44 days per year during the final two years of the investment period.
Requirements for the Investor 2 Category
The minimum investment amount is 3 million NZD. This category has the following requirements: the principal applicant must be under 65 years of age, possess at least three years of senior business management experience, have an IELTS score of 3 or higher, and meet health and character requirements. Once the visa is approved, the principal applicant has one year (with the possibility of a 6-month extension) to transfer the funds to New Zealand for investment, and the investment must be maintained for four years. Additionally, the principal applicant must reside in New Zealand for at least 146 days per year during the final three years of the investment period. The immigration authorities issue 400 spots annually for this category, selecting candidates based on the immigration points system.