Policy verified from immigration.govt.nz as of 2026-04-13
The Global Impact Visa was a New Zealand work visa for innovative entrepreneurs accepted into the Edmund Hillary Fellowship (EHF). The EHF has completed its programme and is no longer accepting new applications. Existing GIV holders may still hold valid visas.
Source: immigration.govt.nz — 2026-04-13
What Is the Global Impact Visa?
Important: The Edmund Hillary Fellowship completed its 7-year partnership with the New Zealand Government and is no longer accepting new applications. The information below is provided for reference only. If you are interested in entrepreneurial immigration pathways, consider the Business Investor Work Visa instead.
The Global Impact Visa was designed for innovative business founders who were accepted into the Edmund Hillary Fellowship programme. It allowed holders to develop and grow their ventures in New Zealand with a pathway to permanent residence.
Who Is Eligible
- Must be accepted into the Edmund Hillary Fellowship
- Business idea must demonstrate innovation and growth potential
- Must meet financial requirements set by INZ
- Relevant business experience and expertise
- Venture must have potential for global impact
Application Process
- Apply to the Edmund Hillary Fellowship programme
- Receive EHF acceptance
- Submit Global Impact Visa application to INZ with EHF acceptance letter
- INZ assesses your application and business plan
- Visa granted — begin developing your venture in NZ
Pathway to Residence
After demonstrating business success in New Zealand, Global Impact Visa holders can apply for permanent residence. The EHF network provides ongoing support throughout your journey.
Why New Zealand?
- Strong startup ecosystem and support networks
- Access to government funding and grants
- Stable political and economic environment
- Strategic location for Asia-Pacific market access
- Business-friendly regulatory environment
How ProVisas Helps
- We advise on the EHF application process and visa requirements
- We prepare your visa application with business plan documentation
- We plan the pathway from Global Impact Visa to permanent residence
Frequently Asked Questions
The Global Impact Visa is a NZ work visa for innovative entrepreneurs accepted into the Edmund Hillary Fellowship (EHF). It provides a pathway from startup development to permanent residence.
You must first be accepted into the Edmund Hillary Fellowship. Your business idea must demonstrate innovation, growth potential, and potential for global impact.
The EHF is a programme that seeks entrepreneurs with innovative business models, scalable solutions, and potential for significant economic contribution to New Zealand.
Yes. After demonstrating business success in New Zealand, Global Impact Visa holders can apply for permanent residence.