New Zealand Introduces Business Investor Visa for Foreign Business Owners, Closing Entrepreneur Work Visa to New Applications

New Zealand introduces a new Business Investor Visa, targeting experienced foreign investors to actively run businesses in the country. The visa has two investment options: a NZ $1 million investment for a three-year work-to-residence pathway, or a NZ $2 million investment for a 12-month fast-track to residence. Applicants must meet age, language, and business experience requirements, and invest in a business that employs at least five full-time equivalent staff. The visa complements the Active Investor Plus Visa and is part of broader immigration changes to attract investment and talent to New Zealand.