New Zealand Visa – Business – Active Investor Visa

1. What is the Active Investor Visa in New Zealand?

The Active Investor Visa is a special visa category in New Zealand that allows investors to gain residency in the country by investing a minimum of NZ$10 million over a three-year period in specified investments. It is designed to attract experienced business people and investors who have a successful background in entrepreneurship and investment.

2. Who is eligible for the Active Investor Visa?
To be eligible for the Active Investor Visa, applicants must:

– Be at least 18 years old
– Have successfully operated businesses or invested in significant investments
– Be able to invest at least NZ$10 million into approved investments
– Meet health and character requirements
– Demonstrate English proficiency

3. Can I include my family members on my Active Investor Visa application?
Yes, applicants can include their partner and dependent children under the age of 24 on their Active Investor Visa application. Each family member included on the application will also receive resident status.

4. What are the approved investments for the Active Investor Visa?

The minimum investment amount of NZ$10 million must be spread across at least two different types of approved investments, which may include:

– Bonds issued by New Zealand Government entities
– Equities in New Zealand companies
– Direct investment into property development or growth assets (excluding residential rental properties)
– Philanthropic investments approved by Immigration New Zealand

5. Can I buy an established business as part of my investment for the Active Investor Visa?
No, buying an existing business does not qualify as an approved investment under the Active Investor Visa program. However, investing in venture capital funds that support start-ups and early-stage companies may be considered an approved investment.

6. How long does it take to process an Active Investor Visa application?
Once all required documents are submitted, it typically takes around six months for an Active Investment Visa application to be processed.

7. Can I apply for permanent residency through this visa?
Yes, after meeting the investment requirements and holding an Active Investor Visa for at least three years, applicants can apply for permanent residency in New Zealand.

8. Is there a limit on the number of Active Investor Visas that are granted each year?
Yes, there is a quota of up to 100 Active Investor Visas granted each year.

9. Can I include my dependents in my application for permanent residency?
Yes, your dependent family members included in your initial Active Investor Visa application will also be eligible to apply for permanent residency with you after three years.

10. Can I sell my investments after obtaining permanent residency through the Active Investor Visa?
There are no restrictions on selling your investments once you have obtained permanent residency through the Active Investor Visa. However, it is important to note that maintaining your investments may be required to maintain your resident status.

2. Who is eligible to apply for the Active Investor Visa?


Eligibility for the Active Investor Visa may vary depending on the specific country or region that offers this program. In general, most Active Investor Visa programs require applicants to meet certain criteria such as:

– Having a high net worth and a certain minimum investment amount (varies by program)
– Being of good character and not having any criminal background
– Having a viable business plan or intention to invest in an existing business
– Being able to make an active contribution to the economy of the country or region
– Meeting any other specific requirements set by the individual program

It is important to research and carefully review the eligibility requirements for the specific Active Investor Visa program you are interested in applying for.

3. Can I bring my family with me under the Active Investor Visa?

No, the Active Investor Visa is only for individuals wishing to invest and actively participate in a business or investment project in Australia. However, if your family members meet the eligibility requirements for other visa categories, they may apply separately for visas to join you in Australia. This could include the Investor Retirement Visa or the Business Innovation and Investment Visa.

4. How much do I need to invest to qualify for the Active Investor Visa?


The Active Investor Visa (AIV) program requires a minimum investment of NZD $10 million in growth-oriented businesses, real estate, or government bonds. This can be made through a single investment or multiple investments over a three-year period. Additionally, the applicant must also have NZD $5 million in settlement funds and meet the program’s other requirements.

5. What are some investment options under the Active Investor Visa program?


Some investment options under the Active Investor Visa (AIV) program may include:

1. Direct investment: This involves investing in a new or existing Australian business with at least AUD $5 million.

2. Venture capital fund: This option requires investing at least AUD $5 million in an eligible venture capital fund that invests in start-up and emerging companies in Australia.

3. Growth private equity fund: Investing at least AUD $5 million in a growth private equity fund that primarily invests in businesses with high growth potential.

4. Managed funds: Investing at least AUD $5 million in managed funds that invest in assets such as infrastructure, real estate, or primary production.

5. Listed investment companies (LICs): This option requires investing at least AUD $5 million in an LIC which is listed on an Australian stock exchange and has a focus on Australian assets.

6. Government bonds: Investing at least AUD $5 million in government bonds issued by the Commonwealth or state governments.

7. Philanthropic donation: Making a philanthropic contribution of at least AUD $500,000 to an eligible charitable organization using funds from your AIV-compliant investment portfolio.

It is important to note that these investment options may vary depending on the specific requirements of each state or territory sponsoring the visa applicant. It is recommended to consult with a registered migration agent for personalized advice based on your individual circumstances.

6. Are there any specific industries or sectors that I can invest in under this visa category?


No, there are no specific industries or sectors that you can invest in under this visa category. As long as your investment meets the minimum requirements and creates jobs for U.S. workers, you can invest in any industry or sector. However, there may be restrictions in certain industries, such as investments related to national security or sensitive technologies. Additionally, it is important to note that the investment must be a legitimate, for-profit enterprise and not solely for the purpose of obtaining a visa.

7. Is there an age limit for applying for the Active Investor Visa?


Yes, there is an age limit for applying for the Active Investor Visa. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and there is no upper age limit.

8. Do I need to have previous business experience to be eligible for this visa?

No, previous business experience is not a requirement to be eligible for the visa, but it may strengthen your application and show that you have the necessary skills and experience to successfully manage a business in Canada.

9. Will my investment be guaranteed by the New Zealand government?

No, investments in New Zealand are not guaranteed by the government. It is important to carefully evaluate the risks and potential returns before making any investment decision.

10. Can I change my investment plan after obtaining the visa?


No, your investment plan has been approved and accepted by the government as a part of your visa application. It cannot be changed after obtaining the visa. If you wish to make changes to your investment, you will need to consult with the appropriate authorities and follow their regulations.

11. How long is the processing time for an Active Investor Visa application?


The processing time for an Active Investor Visa application can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the applicant. Generally, it can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months for an application to be processed and a decision to be made. This time frame can also be affected by factors such as the completeness of the application, any additional documents or information requested by officials, and the volume of applications being processed at the time. It is recommended to submit an application well in advance of any planned date of travel or business activity in order to allow for sufficient processing time.

12. What documents are required for an Active Investor Visa application?


The following documents are commonly required for an Active Investor Visa application:

1. Completed application form: This is the main document that outlines your personal information, investment details and reasons for seeking an active investor visa.

2. Proof of identity: This can include a valid passport, national identity card, or other government-issued identification.

3. Proof of financial resources: You will need to provide evidence that you have sufficient funds to invest in the country. This can include bank statements, tax returns, or other financial documents.

4. Business plan: A detailed business plan outlining your investment strategy is required for the application. This should include information about your intended investment, target market, competition analysis and expected returns.

5. Proof of investment: You will need to provide documentation showing that you have made or are in the process of making a qualifying investment in the country.

6. CV or resume: Your educational and professional background is important in evaluating your eligibility as an active investor.

7. Letter of support from designated authority: The designated authority of the country where you are applying may require a letter of support confirming your eligibility for an active investor visa.

8. Proof of English language proficiency: Many countries require proof of English language proficiency to ensure successful integration into their society and business environment.

9. Medical exams and police certificate: These documents may be required to verify your medical condition and criminal record.

10. Photographs: You will need several passport-sized photographs for your visa application.

11. Application fee: Most countries charge a non-refundable fee for processing active investor visa applications.

12. Other supporting documents may be required depending on the specific requirements of the country you are applying to and your individual circumstances.

13. Is there a minimum net worth requirement to apply for this visa?


No, there is no minimum net worth requirement to apply for this visa. However, you must demonstrate that you have the financial means to support yourself and any accompanying family members during your stay in the United States. This may include providing bank statements, investment portfolios, or proof of employment with a stable income.

14. Can I apply for permanent residency through the Active Investor Visa program?

No, the Active Investor Visa program does not lead directly to permanent residency. However, successful applicants may be eligible for permanent residency through the Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) or the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (subclass 191), which require applicants to have lived in a designated regional area in Australia for a certain period of time.

15. Will my spouse have work authorization under this visa category?

Work authorization is not automatically granted to the spouse of a T visa holder. If your spouse wishes to work in the United States, they will need to apply for their own work authorization through Form I-765. This can be done concurrently with your T visa application or at a later date, but it is important to note that work authorization for your spouse will only be valid for the same duration as your T visa status.

16. Are there any restrictions on how long I can stay outside of New Zealand while holding this visa?


Yes, there are restrictions on how long you can stay outside of New Zealand while holding this visa. You must meet the “continuity of residence” requirement, which means that you must have spent a certain amount of time physically present in New Zealand before being granted permanent resident status. This requirement varies depending on the type of visa that was used to gain permanent resident status. Additionally, if you are absent from New Zealand for more than two years, your permanent residency may be revoked. It is important to check with Immigration New Zealand for specific details and conditions related to your individual visa.

17. Will I need to provide evidence of my English language proficiency during the application process?


It depends on the university and program you are applying to. Some universities may require evidence of English language proficiency, such as standardized test scores or proof of previous education in an English-speaking country. Others may not have strict language requirements but may still consider your proficiency during the application process. It is best to check with the specific university and program for their requirements.

18. Can I include dependent children over 18 years old in my application?


This depends on the specific immigration program you are applying for. Some programs may allow dependent children over 18 years old to be included in an application, while others may have age restrictions. It is best to check the eligibility requirements of the program you are interested in to determine if your children can be included as dependents.

19. Do I need a job offer in order to apply for an Active Investor Visa?


No, a job offer is not required in order to apply for an Active Investor Visa. This type of visa is designed for individuals who have a high net worth and want to invest in New Zealand. However, having a business or investment plan and demonstrating your capability to carry out the investment may increase your chances of being approved for the visa.

20. Is there a limit on the number of active investor visas granted each year by New Zealand?


Yes, there is a limit on the number of investor visas granted each year by New Zealand. The government sets an annual cap on the number of residence approvals available under the Investor 1 and Investor 2 categories. This cap is currently set at 400 for both categories combined. Once this limit is reached, no further applications will be accepted until the next financial year.