Business Investor Visa (BIV) Launching in November

The Entrepreneur Visa, introduced in 2014, has now closed. In its place,the government is introducing the Business Investor Visa (BIV), set to launch in November.

Unlike the previous category, the BIV removes the complexity of lengthy business plans. Instead, it focuses on assessing the entrepreneur themselves and the value they can bring to New Zealand through direct investment in local businesses. This shift is designed to make the process more straightforward while ensuring investment genuinely contributes to growth and employment.

Key Requirements

To qualify for the BIV, applicants will need to meet certain criteria:

• An investment of at least NZ $1 million for a three-year pathway to residence, or NZ$2 million for a twelve-month pathway.  
• At least NZ $500,000 available to support themselves and any family, included in the application.  
• Aged 55 or younger at the time of the BIV application.  
• A reasonable standard of English to be able to conduct business in New Zealand, equivalent to IELTS 5 or higher.
• Meet health, character, and business experience requirements.  
• Invest in a business that employs at least five full time staff at the time of acquisition and then create at least one new full time job for a New Zealander.  
• Hold a minimum 25 percent shareholding in the business.
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A Four-Year Visa with a Pathway to Residence

The BIV will be granted as a four-year temporary work visa. However, it is structured to lead to residence for those who meet the requirements. This provides both security for the investor and continuity for the businesses they are supporting.

Why This Matters

Research shows that many New Zealand business owners are now considering their exit strategies and looking for ways to bring in capital or new leadership. The Business Investor Visa (BIV) provides a timely solution by creating a pathway for entrepreneurs who want to build a future in New Zealand while investing in local businesses. In turn, this supports succession planning, drives new investment, and helps create jobs.

Next Steps

More details about the Business Investor Visa will be released in October. In the meantime, business owners and potential applicants who want to explore how this visa could fit into their plans should start preparing now.

If you would like tailored advice or guidance, talk to our specialist business visa team today.

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