Active Investor Plus Visa 2025: Lower Thresholds, No English Test & Two Investment Tiers

What’s new?

• Two-tier structure. From 11 February 2025 the category splits into a Growth tier (direct or managed-fund investments) requiring NZ $5 million over 3 years, and a Balanced tier (mixed, lower-risk assets) requiring NZ $10 million over 5 years.

• English language removed. Applicants no longer need to sit an English-test, making the visa more accessible to global investors.

• Faster investment timeline. Funds must now be deployed within six months of Approval-in-Principle (extendable once).

Early results

The revamped settings are already working: 189 applications worth a potential NZ $845 million were lodged in the first three months, with nearly half from U.S. investors.

Why it matters

The lower NZ$5 million entry point and wider asset menu make New Zealand’s “golden visa” one of the most competitive in the OECD, especially for founders and family offices seeking political stability and lifestyle upside.

What next?

• Map out whether you prefer the 3-year Growth or 5-year Balanced path.

• Talk to us about your immigration pathway today