Policy verified from immigration.govt.nz as of 2026-04-13
The New Zealand Business Investor Work Visa allows individuals to invest a minimum of NZD $1 million in an established New Zealand business. It provides a work visa for up to four years with a pathway to permanent residence through active business involvement. A $2M investment offers a fast-track 12-month residence pathway.
Source: immigration.govt.nz — 2026-04-13
Key Details
- Minimum investment: NZD $1 million in an established NZ business
- Visa duration: Up to 4 years
- Settlement funds: At least NZD $500,000 to support yourself and your family
- Standard pathway: Residence after 3 years of running the business ($1M investment)
- Fast-track pathway: Residence after 12 months of running the business ($2M investment)
- Active business involvement required throughout
Eligibility
- Invest minimum NZD $1M in an existing NZ business
- Demonstrate business management experience
- Show financial capacity and legitimate source of funds
- Meet health and character requirements
- Commit to active business involvement
Business Requirements
- An established, operating New Zealand business
- Creates employment opportunities
- Aligned with NZ economic interests
- Genuine commercial viability
How ProVisas Helps
- We assess your business investment proposal against INZ requirements
- We prepare comprehensive applications with financial documentation
- We coordinate with accountants and legal partners as needed
- We plan the pathway from business visa to permanent residence
Frequently Asked Questions
The Business Investor Work Visa requires a minimum investment of NZD $1 million in an established, operating New Zealand business.
Yes. After successfully meeting BIWV obligations, investors may apply for permanent residence through work-to-residence pathways.
Yes. You must demonstrate business management experience and show financial capacity with legitimate source of funds.
The Business Investor Work Visa is valid for up to 4 years. Active involvement in the business is required throughout. You can apply for a Business Investor Resident Visa after meeting investment and time requirements.
