Visa Pathways
Business / Investment Visa
Investor and business pathways are designed for people who can contribute capital, expertise, and genuine business activity to New Zealand. These pathways are highly documented and require a clear, compliant strategy.
Last reviewed: August 2026
At a glance
Invest or establish a business in New Zealand with a view to residence.
Who this may be suitable for
- Investors with substantial, legitimately sourced funds
- Entrepreneurs establishing or investing in businesses
- Families planning residence through investment
Basic features
Active investment requirements
Legitimate source-of-funds evidence essential
May include residence for the family
Highly documented and structured
Typical five-step process
1
Define your investment strategy and capacity
2
Evidence the legitimate source of funds
3
Lodge the relevant investor application
4
Meet health, character, and English requirements
5
Maintain compliance with investment conditions
Documents and evidence
- Evidence of investment funds
- Business and entrepreneurial background
- Investment plan or business case
- Source-of-funds documentation
- Tax and financial records
Common risk areas
- Insufficient source-of-funds evidence
- Misalignment with active investment rules
- Complex financial structures
- Ongoing compliance obligations
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum investment?
- Investment thresholds depend on the active pathway and can change. We can give you current, relevant guidance once we understand your goals.
Can my family get residence too?
- Investor pathways can include family members, subject to the conditions of the specific pathway.
Related VisaHome journey
This category connects to a situation-based journey for tailored guidance.
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Book a ConsultationThe information on this website is general in nature and does not constitute personalised immigration advice. Immigration instructions and eligibility requirements may change. An assessment of your individual circumstances is required before advice can be provided.