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The New Zealand government has announced a new Business Investor Visa. This visa is aimed at Pakistani entrepreneurs and investors who want to start businesses and gain residency. It officially launches in November 2025 and replaces the Entrepreneur Work Visa. This new option offers more opportunities and quicker routes to settle in New Zealand.
There are two options under the new visa scheme:
- Invest NZ$1 million in an existing New Zealand business for a three-year work-to-residence path.
- Invest NZ$2 million for a faster 12-month route to residency.
Applicants can buy a business outright or own at least 25% of a business, as long as they meet the minimum investment requirements. The visa is valid for up to four years and costs NZ$12,380 (about Rs 2.2 million). This fee covers both the application cost and the levy. Successful applicants can also bring their spouses and dependent children.
For Pakistanis interested in applying, the requirements include being 55 years old or younger, showing English skills (IELTS 5.0 or equivalent), and proving access to at least NZ$500,000 (about Rs 90 million) in personal funds. Applicants must also demonstrate business experience, meet health and character standards, and create at least five full-time jobs in New Zealand.
Some business types do not qualify for the visa, including drop-shipping, gambling, tobacco or vaping production, adult entertainment, corner shops, discount stores, franchises, fast food outlets, immigration advisory firms, and home-based businesses.
New Zealand officials mentioned that this program works alongside the existing Active Investor Plus Visa. It supports broader efforts to attract global capital and skilled entrepreneurs. More details and comparisons with other visas will be available in October 2025.
