New Zealand is making major changes to its immigration system for businesspeople. The government has officially closed the Entrepreneur Work Visa and announced the launch of a new visa category—the Business Investor Visa. This new pathway is designed to attract skilled investors who can purchase or expand existing businesses and create jobs for the local economy.
Why the Change?
According to Immigration New Zealand, the Entrepreneur Work Visa did not produce the desired outcomes. Applications were few, and many were rejected. In its place, the new Business Investor Visa aims to attract individuals with proven business experience and the capital to make meaningful investments into existing New Zealand companies.
What the Business Investor Visa Means
Starting in November 2025, investors will have two options under the new visa:
- Invest $583,967.86 in an existing business for a 36-month work-to-residence pathway
- Invest $1,169,755.50 in an existing business for a 1-year fast-track to residence
Investors are not required to purchase the entire business. Options include:
- Buying a business outright
- Purchasing at least 25% of an existing business
Both pathways eventually lead to the Business Investor Resident Visa, granting indefinite residency if all conditions are met.
How This Differs from the Old Entrepreneur Visa
The Entrepreneur Work Visa supported individuals who wanted to establish new businesses. By contrast, the Business Investor Visa focuses on investing in and expanding existing businesses. According to the government, the new visa provides:
- Simpler and more transparent rules
- Faster processing times
- A stronger link to job creation and economic growth
For Current Entrepreneur Work Visa Holders
- Applications submitted before the closure will still be processed under old rules.
- If you withdraw your application, fees already paid will not be refunded.
- Current Entrepreneur Work Visa holders may still apply for residence under the Entrepreneur Resident Visa or apply for a renewal if more time is needed.
Relationship to Other Investor Visas
The new Business Investor Visa will complement the Active Investor Plus Visa, which was updated in April 2025 for high-net-worth individuals. While the Active Investor Plus focuses on large-scale capital investment, the Business Investor Visa is designed for skilled business operators seeking direct involvement in existing enterprises.
There are also discussions about a potential startup visa for innovative business creators, though details are still under development.
Why New Zealand Is Making This Shift
Immigration Minister Erica Stanford stated that the policy is designed to attract investors who can:
- Keep existing businesses running
- Create new jobs
- Boost income across the country
As she explained: “We are bringing in global investment to sustain and grow jobs, raise incomes, and revitalize existing businesses.”
When to Expect More Details
Immigration New Zealand will release full details in October 2025, including:
- Complete eligibility requirements
- Comparison with the Active Investor Plus Visa
- Guidance on preparing applications ahead of the November launch
Conclusion
New Zealand’s immigration focus is shifting. Instead of encouraging new small businesses, the government wants to attract skilled investors with capital and proven experience to support and expand existing enterprises. If you are planning to invest and settle in New Zealand, the Business Investor Visa could be your new pathway to residency. With applications opening in November 2025, now is the time to prepare.
FAQ
When does the Business Investor Visa start?
The visa will be open for applications starting November 2025.
What are the investment options under the Business Investor Visa?
You can invest $583,967.86 for a 36-month work-to-residence route or $1,169,755.50 for a 1-year fast-track to residence.
Do I need to buy a whole business?
No. You can purchase a minimum of 25% of an existing business.
What happens if I already applied for the Entrepreneur Work Visa?
Your application will still be processed under the old rules. If you already hold the visa, you may apply for residence or request a renewal.