New Zealand’s Golden Visa: NZ$5 Billion and Growing

Richard Howard1 Oct 2026

Eighteen months after the Active Investor Plus (AIP) reforms, the results speak for themselves. Immigration New Zealand has now received 949 applications from investors across 50 countries representing more than 3,000 people, with almost 500 applications finalised and resident visas issued. Around NZ$5.15 billion has either been committed to New Zealand or is currently in the investment pipeline. The United States remains the programme's largest source country with 33% of all applications.

In just the past six months, application numbers have increased by almost 50%, while the value of committed and pipeline investment has grown from approximately NZ$3.7 billion to now more than NZ$5 billion.

At the same time, the programme is evolving. Recent changes have strengthened Invest New Zealand's oversight of managed funds and direct investments, with greater emphasis on deployment plans, ongoing reporting, recertification and compliance. While the higher standards will create additional obligations for investment providers, they should also help ensure investor capital is genuinely contributing to New Zealand's growth objectives and should reinforce confidence in the programme.

I will be travelling to the United States in October with Invest New Zealand, and with the support of Air New Zealand. I am looking forward to a busy AIP event schedule, catching up with old and new clients, and anyone with an interest in New Zealand.

If you are considering the Active Investor Plus Visa, or are interested in what New Zealand has to offer, then please message me directly to arrange a coffee or meeting.