1. What are the eligibility criteria for the New Zealand Investor 1 Resident Visa?

1. The eligibility criteria for the New Zealand Investor 1 Resident Visa require applicants to meet several key requirements. Firstly, individuals must be aged 65 or under. Secondly, they need to have invested at least NZD 10 million in an acceptable investment in New Zealand for a minimum of 3 years. Thirdly, applicants must be able to demonstrate their genuine intention to live in New Zealand and have good health and character. Additionally, they must be able to prove their genuine commitment to New Zealand, for example, by demonstrating their ties to the country through business activities, investments, or philanthropy. Meeting these criteria demonstrates that the applicant has the means and the desire to contribute to New Zealand’s economy and society, making them eligible for the Investor 1 Resident Visa.

2. How much investment is required to qualify for the Investor 1 Resident Visa?

To qualify for the New Zealand Investor 1 Resident Visa, applicants are required to make a minimum investment of NZ$10 million in New Zealand over a 3-year period. This investment can be made in a variety of ways, such as government bonds, philanthropic investments, or through active management of funds in New Zealand. It is important to note that the investment must be deemed beneficial to New Zealand’s economy and community to meet the visa requirements. Additionally, applicants must also meet health and character requirements, as well as have a good command of the English language.

3. What are the benefits of the Investor 1 Resident Visa compared to other visa options?

The Investor 1 Resident Visa in New Zealand is a highly sought-after visa option among investors for a variety of reasons. Some of the key benefits of the Investor 1 Resident Visa compared to other visa options include:
1. Investment Requirement: The Investor 1 Resident Visa requires a minimum investment of NZD $10 million, which is significantly higher than other investor visas. This higher investment threshold attracts high-net-worth individuals who are looking to make a substantial investment in New Zealand.
2. Pathway to Permanent Residency: The Investor 1 Resident Visa offers a direct pathway to permanent residency in New Zealand for the main applicant, their partner, and dependent children. This provides long-term stability and security for the entire family.
3. Flexibility: Holders of the Investor 1 Resident Visa are not required to meet any minimum stay requirements in New Zealand, giving them the flexibility to travel in and out of the country as they please while maintaining their residency status.
4. Healthcare and Education Benefits: As New Zealand residents, holders of the Investor 1 Visa are eligible for publicly funded healthcare and education, ensuring access to high-quality services for themselves and their families.
5. Business Opportunities: Investors holding the Investor 1 Resident Visa can explore business opportunities and investments in New Zealand, contributing to the country’s economy and potentially creating job opportunities for locals.

Overall, the Investor 1 Resident Visa stands out for its high investment threshold, direct pathway to permanent residency, flexibility, access to public services, and opportunities for business development, making it an attractive option for high-net-worth individuals seeking to establish a long-term presence in New Zealand.

4. How long does the processing time take for the Investor 1 Resident Visa application?

The processing time for an Investor 1 Resident Visa application in New Zealand can vary depending on various factors such as the complexity of the application, the volume of applications being processed at the time, and whether all required documents and information have been submitted correctly. Generally, it can take anywhere from 6 to 9 months for Immigration New Zealand to process an Investor 1 Resident Visa application. It is important to ensure that all necessary documentation is provided accurately and in a timely manner to help expedite the processing of the application. Applicants should also keep in mind that the processing times may change based on the current workload of the immigration authorities.

5. Are there any specific requirements related to the source of funds for the investment?

Yes, there are specific requirements related to the source of funds for the New Zealand Investor 1 Resident Visa. Applicants must be able to provide evidence that the funds they are investing have been legally earned or acquired. This can include documentation such as bank statements, tax records, business ownership records, or proof of inheritance. It is crucial that the funds used for the investment are obtained through legitimate means and not through any illegal activities. Additionally, applicants must also demonstrate that they have a genuine intention to invest in New Zealand and make a significant contribution to the country’s economy. Failure to provide satisfactory evidence of the legitimate source of funds may result in the visa application being denied.

6. Can family members be included in the Investor 1 Resident Visa application?

Yes, family members can be included in the Investor 1 Resident Visa application. This visa category allows for the primary applicant to include their partner and dependent children under 24 years old in the application. Family members included in the application will also be granted residency in New Zealand upon the approval of the Investor 1 visa. It is important to note that family members included in the application must meet the health and character requirements set by Immigration New Zealand. Additionally, all family members included in the application must intend to stay in New Zealand with the primary applicant for the duration of their residency.

7. What are the conditions attached to the Investor 1 Resident Visa once granted?

Once granted, the Investor 1 Resident Visa in New Zealand comes with several conditions that the visa holder must adhere to:

1. Investment: The primary condition of the visa is maintaining the required investment in New Zealand for a period of at least three years. The minimum investment threshold for the Investor 1 Resident Visa is NZ$10 million in acceptable investments, such as bonds, equities, or commercial property.

2. Time Spent in New Zealand: Visa holders must also spend a minimum of 146 days in each of the last three years of the four-year investment period, or 438 days over the four-year period, in New Zealand to be eligible for residency.

3. No Dependents: Unlike the Investor 2 Resident Visa, which allows for the inclusion of dependents, the Investor 1 Resident Visa does not permit the inclusion of dependents as visa holders. They may, however, apply separately for residency under the Family Category.

4. Compliance: It is important for visa holders to comply with all immigration laws and regulations throughout their stay in New Zealand. Any breaches of these laws could result in the visa being revoked.

Overall, the conditions attached to the Investor 1 Resident Visa are designed to ensure that the visa holder makes a significant investment in New Zealand, contributes to the economy, and fulfills their obligations to maintain residency status in the country.

8. Are there any restrictions on the types of investments that can be made to qualify for the visa?

Yes, there are specific guidelines and restrictions on the types of investments that can be made to qualify for the New Zealand Investor 1 Resident Visa. To be eligible for this visa category, individuals need to invest a minimum of NZD $10 million in acceptable investments in New Zealand for a period of three years. These investments must be made in specific categories such as bonds, equities, and commercial property. However, there are restrictions on investing in residential property development, passive investments without direct involvement in the business, and businesses involved in the sex industry, gambling, or arms manufacturing. It is essential for applicants to carefully consider the investment options that align with the visa requirements to ensure compliance with the immigration regulations.

9. What are the financial requirements for maintaining the Investor 1 Resident Visa status?

To maintain the Investor 1 Resident Visa status in New Zealand, there are certain financial requirements that visa holders need to fulfill:

1. Investment Funds: Visa holders must have a minimum of NZ$10 million invested in an acceptable investment in New Zealand for a period of at least three years.

2. Presence in New Zealand: Visa holders are required to spend a minimum of 146 days in New Zealand each year during the second and subsequent years of holding the visa.

3. Tax Obligations: Applicants must meet New Zealand’s tax requirements, including complying with all tax laws and obligations.

4. Good Character: Visa holders must maintain a good character throughout the duration of their visa, which includes following all New Zealand laws and regulations.

By meeting these financial requirements and obligations, Investor 1 Resident Visa holders can maintain their visa status and eventually apply for permanent residency in New Zealand.

10. Is there a requirement to reside in New Zealand for a certain period each year with the Investor 1 Resident Visa?

No, there is no specific requirement to reside in New Zealand for a certain period each year with the Investor 1 Resident Visa. Holders of this visa are granted permanent residency status in New Zealand, allowing them the flexibility to come and go from the country as they please. While there is no mandated minimum stay requirement, it is worth noting that maintaining a connection to New Zealand through business activities, investments, or other ties may be important for visa holders to demonstrate their genuine commitment to the country. It is advisable to consult with immigration authorities or legal advisors for further guidance on residency obligations or best practices for investors under this visa program.

11. Can the Investor 1 Resident Visa lead to permanent residency or citizenship in New Zealand?

Yes, the Investor 1 Resident Visa is a pathway to permanent residency in New Zealand. Once granted, investors are eligible to live, work, and study in New Zealand indefinitely. To be eligible for citizenship in New Zealand, an individual must have held permanent residency for at least five years, meet certain language requirements, show a commitment to New Zealand values, and have spent enough time in the country. Obtaining the Investor 1 Resident Visa can be the first step towards fulfilling these requirements for citizenship in New Zealand.

12. Are there any language proficiency requirements for the Investor 1 Resident Visa?

Yes, there are no specific language proficiency requirements for the New Zealand Investor 1 Resident Visa. The main eligibility criteria for this visa category primarily focus on the applicant’s investment capabilities rather than their language skills. To be eligible for the Investor 1 Resident Visa, applicants must be able to invest a minimum of NZD $10 million in New Zealand over a three-year investment period. Additionally, they must be willing to stay in New Zealand for a minimum of 44 days in each of the last two investment years. Meeting these investment and residency requirements is crucial for obtaining the Investor 1 Resident Visa, rather than demonstrating proficiency in a particular language.

13. What are the tax implications for investors holding the Investor 1 Resident Visa?

Investors holding the Investor 1 Resident Visa in New Zealand are subject to certain tax implications. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Tax Residency: As a holder of the Investor 1 Resident Visa, you become a tax resident of New Zealand for income tax purposes. This means you will be required to pay taxes on your worldwide income in New Zealand.

2. Foreign Income: Any foreign income you earn, such as dividends, interest, rental income, or capital gains, will also be subject to New Zealand tax laws. You may be eligible for tax credits or exemptions based on double tax agreements that New Zealand has with other countries.

3. Investment Income: Income earned from investments within New Zealand, such as dividends from shares or rental income from properties, will be taxed according to the relevant tax rates applicable in New Zealand.

4. Capital Gains Tax: New Zealand does not currently have a comprehensive capital gains tax regime, but certain gains on property and investments may still be subject to tax under specific circumstances.

5. Wealth Tax: New Zealand does not have a wealth tax, so you will not be taxed on your overall wealth or assets held outside of New Zealand.

It is important for investors holding the Investor 1 Resident Visa to seek professional tax advice to ensure compliance with New Zealand tax laws and to optimize their tax obligations both locally and internationally.

14. Are there any specific industries or sectors preferred for investment under the Investor 1 Resident Visa scheme?

Under the New Zealand Investor 1 Resident Visa scheme, there are no specific industries or sectors that are officially designated as preferred for investment. Applicants are free to invest in a wide range of sectors based on their individual preferences and investment goals. However, it is important to note that the New Zealand government encourages investments that contribute to economic growth, job creation, innovation, and regional development. Therefore, potential investors may consider focusing on sectors that align with these objectives, such as tourism, technology, infrastructure, agriculture, and renewable energy. Ultimately, the key factor for a successful application under the Investor 1 Resident Visa scheme is the overall economic benefit that the investment will bring to New Zealand.

15. Can the investment be made in partnership with other investors to meet the visa requirements?

Yes, the investment for the New Zealand Investor 1 Resident Visa can be made in partnership with other investors to meet the visa requirements. However, there are specific criteria that need to be met for a partnership investment to qualify for the visa.

1. The partnership investment must meet the minimum investment amount required for the visa program, which is NZD $10 million.
2. Each individual partner must contribute their proportionate share of the investment amount.
3. The partnership agreement must clearly outline the terms of the investment, including the roles and responsibilities of each partner.
4. All partners must meet the eligibility requirements for the visa program, including demonstrating good character and business experience.

Overall, investing in partnership can be a viable option to meet the visa requirements, as long as all the criteria are satisfied.

16. Is there an age limit for applicants of the Investor 1 Resident Visa?

Yes, there is no specified age limit for applicants of the New Zealand Investor 1 Resident Visa. Unlike some other visa categories that may have age restrictions, the Investor 1 Resident Visa does not set a maximum age limit for applicants. This means that individuals of any age who meet the investment and financial requirements of the visa category may apply. The focus of the Investor 1 Resident Visa is primarily on the applicant’s ability to make a substantial investment in New Zealand, and age is not considered a determining factor in assessing eligibility for this visa. It is important for applicants to carefully review and fulfill all the investment criteria and requirements outlined by Immigration New Zealand to qualify for the Investor 1 Resident Visa.

17. What are the options for extending or renewing the Investor 1 Resident Visa?

1. The Investor 1 Resident Visa in New Zealand allows eligible investors to live in the country permanently. When it comes to extending or renewing this visa, there are several options available to applicants depending on their individual circumstances.

2. One common way to extend the Investor 1 Resident Visa is by meeting the visa conditions set by Immigration New Zealand. These conditions usually include requirements such as maintaining your investment funds in New Zealand for a specified period of time and abiding by the visa terms during your stay in the country.

3. If you wish to renew your Investor 1 Resident Visa after the initial period, you may need to provide evidence of continued investment in New Zealand and meet any updated requirements set by immigration authorities. This could involve submitting financial statements, investment information, and other supporting documents to demonstrate your ongoing commitment to the New Zealand economy.

4. It is essential to stay informed about any policy changes or updates related to the Investor 1 Resident Visa to ensure a smooth extension or renewal process. Seeking guidance from immigration professionals or advisors who specialize in New Zealand visas can also help streamline the application process and navigate any complexities that may arise.

18. Can investments in residential real estate qualify for the Investor 1 Resident Visa?

Investments in residential real estate do not typically qualify for the New Zealand Investor 1 Resident Visa. This visa category is specifically designed for high-net-worth individuals who intend to make substantial investments in New Zealand’s economy, excluding residential property. Instead, eligible investments typically include government bonds, managed funds, and direct investments in New Zealand businesses. These investments must be for a minimum of NZ $10 million over a three-year period. By meeting the investment requirements and providing evidence of good character, health, and English language proficiency, applicants may be granted residency under the Investor 1 category in New Zealand.

19. Are there any specific job creation or economic development obligations for Investor 1 visa holders?

Yes, there are specific job creation and economic development obligations for Investor 1 visa holders in New Zealand. When applying for the Investor 1 Resident Visa, individuals are required to make a qualifying investment in New Zealand for a minimum of 3 years. This investment must be at least NZD $10 million and must be made in an acceptable investment category, such as bonds, equities, property, or managed funds.

Upon obtaining the visa, Investor 1 visa holders are expected to actively participate in the economic development of New Zealand. This may include creating new jobs, investing in local businesses, or contributing to various sectors of the economy. While there are no specific job creation quotas or requirements outlined for Investor 1 visa holders, the overall aim is to stimulate economic growth and development in New Zealand through the investments made by the visa holders.

Additionally, Investor 1 visa holders are encouraged to contribute to the local economy and society by actively engaging in community initiatives, supporting local businesses, and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. Overall, the Investor 1 Resident Visa program is designed to attract high net worth individuals who can make significant contributions to the New Zealand economy and society through their investments and active participation in economic development efforts.

20. Are there any specific requirements for demonstrating business experience or acumen for the Investor 1 Resident Visa application?

Yes, there are specific requirements for demonstrating business experience or acumen for the Investor 1 Resident Visa application in New Zealand. To be eligible for this visa category, applicants are typically required to provide evidence of at least three years of successful business experience and a minimum of NZD 10 million in investment funds. This business experience can be demonstrated through the ownership and management of a business, involvement in entrepreneurial activities, or leadership roles in significant business ventures. Furthermore, applicants are often required to submit a detailed business plan outlining their proposed investment strategy in New Zealand, demonstrating their understanding of the local market and potential for contributing to the country’s economy. Additionally, having a successful track record of previous investments and a solid business acumen are vital for a successful application for the Investor 1 Resident Visa.