Further details have now been published regarding the April 2025 changes to New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus Visa.

New Zealand’s Business Investor Visa (BIV) pathway offers experienced entrepreneurs and investors the opportunity to purchase and operate an established New Zealand business, with the potential to transition to residence. Below is a comprehensive set of frequently asked questions based on Immigration New Zealand’s (INZ) policy guidance. These answers help investors understand requirements around valuation, ownership, staffing, capital funds, compliance, and residence.

---

Business Valuation & Purchase Requirements

Which business valuation method does INZ rely on?

INZ must be satisfied that the proposed purchase price is credible. Officers often rely on a valuation prepared by or based on advice from a Qualified Statutory Accountant (QSA). If concerns arise, INZ may request further information. Visa approval is not an endorsement of the business — applicants must conduct their own due diligence.

Are intangible assets such as goodwill considered?

Yes, goodwill can be included if it credibly forms part of the purchase price.

Is the NZD $1 million minimum purchase price exclusive of fees?

Yes. Transaction and legal costs are not included in the required $1 million.

Can investors buy through an overseas company they own?

No. The applicant must purchase the business personally.

Can multiple applicants invest in the same business?

Yes — if all applicants apply for their work visas at the same time. Each must actively operate the business and meet job-creation requirements.

---

Funding, Capital & Reserve Requirements

What if capital raising dilutes my ownership below 25%?

Applicants must retain at least the same ownership proportion they had at work-visa approval. Reserve funds (minimum NZD $500,000) may be used to maintain ownership.

Can borrowed funds be used instead of liquidating assets?

Only if liquidation is not economically viable or practical.

Do reserve funds need to be currently existing?

Yes. Future income or non-existent assets do not qualify.

Can I borrow in NZ to top up investment capital?

No. All nominated capital must be unencumbered.

Who qualifies as a QSA?

A chartered accountant holding a Certificate of Public Practice (CPP) — including CA ANZ and CPA Australia members.

---

Business Operation Requirements

Does the business need 5 FTEs before applying?

Yes. The business must employ at least five full-time equivalent (FTE) staff before lodging the work visa and must maintain this.

Is there a grace period if staff resign?

Yes — roles may remain vacant for up to 3 months in a 12-month period.

Does the business need to be operating for 5 years?

Yes. INZ checks that the business:

1. Remains identifiable as the same business over 5 years,

2. Operated in New Zealand, and

3. Operated continuously (with normal allowances such as holiday closures).

Are owners counted as employees?

No. Owners are excluded from FTE counts even if paid a salary.

Can one business operate across multiple locations?

Yes — provided it remains a single business (e.g., same NZBN/IRD).

Are franchises excluded?

Yes. A nominated business cannot be a franchise.

What qualifies as an acceptable bank or lender?

INZ considers whether the lender is:

• Licensed and regulated, and

• Recognised as a registered bank or commercial lending institution.

---

Immigration & Partnership Requirements

Can another lawyer in the same firm give commercial advice?

Yes — as long as a different individual provides immigration advice.

What if the applicant and partner haven’t lived together for 12 months?

INZ looks for:

• A genuine and stable partnership,

• 12 months of living together.
  Periods of separation may be accepted if there are genuine and compelling reasons.

---

Business Failure, Non-Compliance & Additional Work Visa Options

What if the business fails?

Applicants may apply for an additional 2-year work visa to continue meeting residence requirements.

What causes non-compliance?

Examples include:

• Being placed on an INZ or Employment NZ stand-down list,

• Breaches of legal or employment obligations.

Can a business be reused for another investor visa?

No. A business cannot be used if it supported an approved BIV or Entrepreneur visa within the past 10 years.

---

Residence Visa Requirements

Is financial reporting required at residence stage?

Not always, but INZ may request it. Applicants must show the business is solvent, often verified by a QSA. Inland Revenue documents are preferred.

Are turnover requirements imposed?

No fixed turnover requirement exists, but the business must operate genuinely and remain solvent.

Must the applicant pay themselves a salary?

No salary requirement exists, but applicants must show active involvement in running the business.

How does INZ assess “active involvement” for multiple investors?

Each investor must demonstrate:

• Day-to-day involvement,

• Decision-making,

• Financial oversight,

• Strategic planning.

---

Employment Creation Requirements

What are the hiring obligations for residence?

In addition to maintaining 5 FTEs, the business must employ at least one new full-time NZ citizen or resident for 12 months (per investor).

---

Other Clarifications

Does “all legal obligations” refer to a specific policy section?

No — it refers to all legal obligations applicable to the specific business, such as licensing, employment law, safety compliance, etc.

Are inheritances acceptable gifted funds?

Yes — provided they are permanently distributed through a will.

---

Want help with a Business Investor Visa?

VisaEnvoy’s New Zealand immigration specialists can guide you through:

• Business Investor Visa eligibility

• Purchasing or assessing a New Zealand business

• Due diligence

• Residence pathway strategy

• Maintaining policy compliance

See our full guide:
👉 Business Investor Visa New Zealand

Explore Related Visa Options

• Active Investor Plus Visa

• Entrepreneur Work Visa (closed, but page provides category details)

• New Zealand Visa Assessment

If you are considering a long-term investment in New Zealand and would like to explore your visa options, including the Active Investor Plus Visa, our team of qualified migration advisors can help. Contact us or book a consultation today and we will be happy to provide you with a comprehensive suite of options tailored to your unique needs and circumstances.