As stated previously, New Zealand is becoming a haven for the investors, business owners, and skilled professionals who come to reside and work in the country silently. However, New Zealand is still open for several types of visas under its golden visa program as of May 2025.
These specific programs are meant to cater to the people by bringing in investments from foreign countries and boosting the economy of New Zealand. This is a stay program that makes foreign nationals and their families eligible for residency in New Zealand after a substantial investment made in some key areas. Below are the various types of Gold Visa, the eligibility criteria under which applicants fall, and the process under which they may apply.
Different Types of Golden Visas Available
There are also various forms in the New Zealand Golden Visa program as it only has a few categories of visas, including investment. Such include Investor 1 and Investor 2 visas, as well as the Entrepreneur Work Visa. Each visa type is aligned to different investment levels and specific needs of the applicants. The Investor 1 Visa is for those intending to invest NZD 10 million or more, whereas the Investor 2 Visa accepts at least NZD 3 million investment. On the other hand, this is an option for intending entrepreneurs looking to set up or invest in businesses in New Zealand.
Eligibility Criteria
Golden Visa eligibility criteria are subject to the specific requirements of each visa type. The Investor 1 visa requires an application to be based on the intention of investing NZD 10 million into New Zealand for three years. The Investor 2 visa requires applicants to be between the ages of 65 and younger and to show an acceptable level of investment experience.
Entrepreneur applicants must prove their entrepreneurial experience as well as present acceptable business proposals. All applicants must show their dedication to either live in New Zealand or contribute to its economy.
Application Process
The New Zealand Golden Visa application will consist of several stages. Initially, applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI), addressing their investment proposals, business history, or financial capability. If an Expression of Interest is accepted, the next stage is that applicants will be invited to apply for a particular visa.
Within this process, they will be required to submit certain detailed financial documents along with a business plan, if required, and undergo health and character checks. Once granted the visa, the applicant may enter and reside in New Zealand and apply for permanent residency after stipulated durations based on the class of visa.