New Zealand business migration allows experienced entrepreneurs and investors to live and work in New Zealand by investing in and actively operating a business. Under the Business Investor Work Visa, you can move with your partner and dependent children while building a long-term pathway toward residence.
What Is New Zealand Business Investor Work Visa?
New Zealand business investor work visa enables eligible investors to:
- Invest in an established New Zealand business
- Actively manage and operate the business
- Bring family members
- Transition to a resident visa pathway if requirements are met
The Business Investor Work Visa is typically granted for up to 4 years and operates in two stages:
Stage 1: Establishment Stage (First 12 Months)
- Finalize business acquisition
- Set up operations
- Meet ownership and employment requirements
Stage 2: Operating Stage (Remaining 3 Years)
- Actively run the business
- Meet investment and job creation conditions
- Maintain compliance with immigration and business laws
Investment Requirements
There are two main pathways:
Standard Pathway
- Minimum Investment: NZD $1 million
- Reserve Funds: NZD $500,000 (for living expenses)
- Residence Eligibility: After 3 years of operation
Fast-Track Pathway
- Minimum Investment: NZD $2 million
- Reserve Funds: NZD $500,000
- Residence Eligibility: After 12 months (subject to meeting conditions)
Investment must be made in an established New Zealand business that:
- Has been operating for at least 5 years
- Has at least 5 full-time employees
- Has a purchase value of at least NZD $1 million
- Provides at least 25% ownership to the investor
GST, transaction costs, and government fees are not counted toward the minimum investment.
Eligibility Criteria for Business Investor Work Visa
To qualify, applicants must meet the following:
- Maximum age: 55 years
- Minimum 3 years of business or senior management experience
- Intention to actively run the business
- Creation of at least one new full-time job for a New Zealand citizen or resident
- English language requirement (IELTS 5.0 or equivalent)
- Good health and character
Business experience must meet defined turnover and employee thresholds, and documentary evidence is mandatory.
Family Benefits
New Zealand business investor work visa allows family inclusion:
Partner
- Open work rights
- Must meet health and character requirements
- Must prove a genuine and stable relationship
Dependent Children
- Must be 24 years or under and single
- Financially dependent
- Eligible for student visa to study in New Zealand
Unacceptable Business Types
Certain businesses are not eligible under this category, including:
- Gambling or adult entertainment
- Tobacco or vaping manufacturing
- Dropshipping businesses
- Convenience or discount stores
- Fast food franchises
- Labour hire companies
- Home-based businesses
Documents Required for Business Investor Work Visa
Key documentation includes:
- Valid passport
- Proof of investment funds
- Proof of NZD $500,000 reserve funds
- Business experience documents
- Detailed Business Proposal
- Medical examination and chest X-ray
- Police certificates
- English language evidence
Supporting documentation must demonstrate a lawful source of funds and genuine business capability.
Why Choose eduaid for New Zealand Business Investor Work Visa?
eduaid provides structured, compliant, and transparent support.
Licensed & Registered
We are a Licensed New Zealand Immigration Adviser (IAAL N201002327) with up-to-date regulatory knowledge.
End-to-End Migration Support
- Business eligibility assessment
- Source-of-funds documentation guidance
- Business proposal preparation
- Visa application management
- Family inclusion guidance
Transparent Process
- No hidden costs
- Clear documentation checklist
- Policy-compliant advice
We focus on accuracy, documentation quality, and regulatory compliance — not shortcuts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for residence directly?
The Business Investor Work Visa provides a pathway to residence after meeting operational and investment conditions.
Can I buy any business?
No. The business must meet specific operational, ownership, and compliance requirements.
Do I need to live in New Zealand full-time?
You must actively operate and manage the business as required under visa conditions.
Is English mandatory?
Yes. Applicants must meet minimum English language requirements unless exempt under defined criteria.
Start Your New Zealand Business Migration Journey
New Zealand business migration is ideal for experienced entrepreneurs and investors seeking a stable, business-friendly environment with long-term residency prospects.
If you are considering investing in New Zealand, speak to a licensed adviser before committing to any purchase.