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Active Investor Plus (AIP) Residence Category
The Active Investor Plus (AIP) visa is New Zealand’s premier resident visa for high-net-worth individuals seeking to invest in the country’s economy. This visa is designed for those in a strong financial position who wish to contribute to New Zealand’s growth by investing in businesses and projects aligned with the government’s economic priorities. Investors are welcomed for the capital, expertise, and international connections they bring, which benefit communities and businesses across New Zealand.From 6 March 2026, amendments to the Overseas Investment Act allow holders of the AIP visa to purchase one high value residential property in New Zealand.
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Policy Background
The AIP visa was first introduced in September 2022. Initial policy settings were complex and less attractive to investors. Significant revisions took effect from 1 April 2025, resulting in simplified policy settings, a streamlined application process, and a surge in high-quality applications.
Key Features & Requirements
- No English language requirement- Must be of good health and character
- Children under 25 years, who are single and meet dependent child criteria, can be included
- Nominated investment funds or assets must be legally acquired and owned by the applicant (or jointly owned with their partner)
- Application process: Fully online, with electronic document processing
- Processing time: Approval in principle typically within 2-4 weeks
- Post-approval: 6 months to transfer funds through the banking system and to complete the investment
- Path to permanent residency: Upon successful completion of the investment period and presence requirements, applicants and their families become eligible for a Permanent Resident Visa - granting lifelong residency with no conditions or expiry
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Investment Categories
Growth Category
- Investment Required: NZ$5 million (approx. USD 3 million) for 3 years- Eligible Investments: Direct investments and/or managed funds approved by InvestNZ, focusing on growth sectors such as infrastructure, tourism, health, film, education, technology, manufacturing, renewable energy, and the primary sector
- InvestNZ is a New Zealand Government agency, established in July 2025, to attract foreign direct investment to drive economic growth, innovation and productivity
- Minimum Presence: 21 days in New Zealand over the 3-year investment term
Balanced Category
- Investment Required: NZ$10 million (approx. USD 6 million) for 5 years- Eligible Investments: A broader range, including government, local government, and corporate bonds; listed New Zealand equities; new residential, commercial, or industrial developments; philanthropy; and any Growth Category investments
- Minimum Presence: 105 days in New Zealand over the 5-year investment term (this requirement can be reduced with additional investment in Growth Investments)
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Why Choose Pathways?
Pathways Managing Director Richard Howard was a member of the Adviser Reference Group that helped develop the new AIP policy. Richard accompanied the Minister of Immigration, and the InvestNZ team, to promote the AIP visa at major events in New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. He personally manages all AIP investor applications, ensuring expert guidance throughout the process. Pathways has established connections with banks, wealth managers, InvestNZ approved investments, tax advisers and other professionals to assist and support AIP investors, and receives no benefit from any such professional introductions.For a confidential, no-obligation discussion about the AIP investor category and your eligibility, please contact Richard directly. To request further information or to discuss your investment options, please enquire below.
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