New Zealand about to close Investor Visa category

Media reports revealed the government is considering closing the Investor Plus (NZD 10 million) and Investor Two (NZD 3 million) categories in favour of a new NZD 25 million Investor Visa category.

From reports we understand the intention is to scrap the current categories for a much smaller number of high net worth individuals who are prepared to invest significant funds into more active investments. There was suggestion an English test may also apply to the new visa category.

The Prime Minister is on record saying “Cabinet has not made any decisions yet”. This would suggest that there is active consideration underway by government to review the current policy setting for the Investor Visa which may lead onto these leaked changes.

If you have been considering applying under the current Investor categories NOW is the time to act before the government makes a decision which may lead to disappointment.

A reminder of the current Investor Visa requirements:

Investor Plus

· Invest NZD 10 million in New Zealand for 3 years

· Prove funds lawfully earned and owned

· Spend 88 days in New Zealand over investment period

· Meet Health and Character requirements

Investor Two

· Invest NZD 3 million for 4 years

· Prove funds lawfully earned and owned

· Spend 438 days in New Zealand over investment period

· Have a minimum of 3 years business experience

· Prove minimum standard of English

· Meet Health and Character requirements

This will NOT impact anyone who has already lodged an Investor residence application. If an application is not lodged before any changes take effect then it will be too late.