In one sentence
New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus grants residence through investment: NZD 5 million over three years (Growth) or NZD 10 million over five (Balanced), with no English requirement and low stay rules.
Who it suits
- Families wanting their children raised in English
- Investors still running businesses in Asia who can only visit briefly
- Investors with limited English
Who it may not suit
- Anyone wanting to invest only in their own home
- Those unable to accept higher-risk investments (Growth)
Main requirements
- Growth: NZD 5 million invested over three years in qualifying higher-risk investments
- Balanced: NZD 10 million invested over five years in a broader range of qualifying investments
- The minimum days in New Zealand during the investment period
- Character and health requirements met
Timeline
| Step | Timing | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| Assessment and investment planning | 1–2 months | We assess your source of funds and choose the category and investments. |
| Application | A few weeks | Lodge the resident visa application. |
| Approval in principle and investment | Within the required period | After approval in principle, complete the investment. |
| Resident visa | After approval | Receive the resident visa once invested, and maintain the investment for the investment period. |
Common myths
| Myth | Reality |
|---|---|
| Buying a home qualifies | Your own home doesn’t count. |
| English is required | It has been removed. |
| The stay requirement is high | Growth needs 21 days over three years. |
Checklist before you apply
- Choose Growth or Balanced
- Choose accepted qualifying investments
- Plan your days in New Zealand
- Organise your source of funds
Our advice
Choose the category by capital and risk appetite, and plan the investment within your overall allocation.
Every family’s background and timeline is different — book a free consultation and a consultant will assess your situation.
Learn more: New Zealand Active Investor Plus (AIP)