New Zealand: to attract international investors, the country is updating its Golden Visa program

New Zealand authorities plan to revamp the Golden Visa program, officially known as the Active Investor Visa, to make the application process simpler and more attractive to wealthy immigrants while maintaining strict investment standards. The measures come in response to a sharp drop in applications for gold visas following the introduction of stricter rules in 2022.

Under the proposed changes, investors will have to invest at least NZ$5 million (about $2.9 million) in direct investments or NZ$15 million (about $8.7 million) in passive investments such as shares in stock markets to qualify for the visa. This exceeds the previous requirement of N3 million (about $1.7 million).

At present, it can only be noted that the application process for the Golden Visa has been accelerated, as the New Zealand government has already implemented the measures.

The new criteria also removes bonds and real estate from the list of acceptable investments, focusing on efficient investments that benefit the New Zealand economy and contribute to sustainable growth.

Migrant investors are encouraged to bring not only capital, but also their experience, connections and innovative ideas, which will be seen as valuable contributions to the country's economic and social development.

The government is also considering changes to the requirements, including the removal or revision of the mandatory English language test. A detailed report on this issue is expected to be submitted shortly.

The Golden Visa program provides foreign investors with the opportunity to obtain a residence permit subject to a financial contribution, and after 4 years they can apply for permanent residency and, after 5 years, citizenship. Moving with family, including spouses and children under 25, is also allowed.

The New Zealand authorities are actively engaged in changing immigration conditions to make the country more attractive to expats who can make a significant contribution to the country's economic development and social prosperity.

Keep up to date with visa policy changes and get up-to-date travel planning advice by following the news at Visa-Navigator.com.