New Zealand has introduced a new four-year golden visa to bring more investment and skilled entrepreneurs into the country. This article explains, in simple English, what the golden visa is, who can apply, what benefits it gives, and the steps you should take. I will also mention short-visit rules like the NZeTA Application Form and where to find Information About The NZeTA so you arrive correctly prepared.

What is the golden visa?

A golden visa is a special immigration route that lets people live and work in a country in return for a big investment. New Zealand’s version — sometimes called the Business Investor Work Visa or Active Investor route — lets eligible investors stay for up to four years and gives them a clear path to permanent residency if they meet the conditions. This program aims to bring money, businesses and jobs into New Zealand. 

Who can apply for the golden visa?

The golden visa is aimed at high-net-worth people who can make significant investments in New Zealand. There are different investment paths, and the main ideas are:

• A growth option (commonly associated with millions in NZD) for managed funds, business investments and listed equities.

• A larger-investment option that allows a wider mix of options such as bonds, property development and philanthropy.

Which path fits you depends on how much you plan to invest and the types of investments you choose. For exact thresholds and options, check the official New Zealand immigration pages before you apply. 

What you and your family get with the golden visa

If your golden visa application is approved, you and your immediate family usually get these benefits:

• The right to live and work in New Zealand for the visa length (up to four years).

• The ability to include your partner and dependent children on the application.

• A pathway to apply for permanent residency later, if you meet investment and stay requirements.

• In some high-investment cases, permission to buy or build one very high-value property under strict rules.

These benefits let families move together, work locally, and plan long-term life in New Zealand while the investor’s funds help local business and jobs. 

Residency and presence rules — what you must know

One important thing about the golden visa is the residency or “presence” rules. New Zealand has relaxed some of these rules to make the program more attractive. Depending on the investment category, you may need only a small number of days in the country over several years — for example, some growth categories require only a few weeks in total across the investment term, while larger or different categories have different day counts and time windows. Make sure you read the exact rules for your path because missing required days can affect your route to permanent residency. 

Local impact and job requirements

The government says the golden visa should help the New Zealand economy — not only with funds, but with jobs. Many investor routes require that the investment creates or supports local jobs. This rule is meant to keep the benefits in New Zealand and reduce the risk that money simply sits offshore with no local effect. Critics worry about housing and fairness, and supporters point to the new capital, jobs and business know-how the program can bring.

How to apply — step by step (simple)

1. Check the official rules: Visit Immigration New Zealand’s pages for the Business Investor Work Visa or Active Investor information to see which route fits you. These pages explain investment types, minimum amounts, and presence requirements.

2. Plan your investment: Decide whether to use a managed fund, buy into an existing New Zealand business, invest in bonds, or another eligible option. Some paths require funds to be kept in New Zealand for a set time.

3. Gather documents: Be ready to show proof of funds, source of wealth, identity papers, health checks and police certificates. Authorities check everything strictly.

4. Apply online and pay fees: Use Immigration New Zealand’s online service to apply and pay the official fees. Processing times can vary.

If you only plan a short visit first (for meetings or to look at business opportunities), remember many travellers must request an NZeTA in advance. The NZeTA Application Form is the official form you use to request travel permission and to pay the small International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy. For travel guidance, look at the Information About The NZeTA on the government site so you arrive with correct papers. 

Costs and timing

The biggest cost is the investment itself — the sums are large and meant for wealthy investors. In addition to the investment, expect government application fees, due diligence costs and professional fees for lawyers and accountants. Timelines depend on the route and the completeness of your documents. Always check the official site for the latest fee and processing time information.

Pros and cons — quick check

Pros:

• A clear, legal path to live and work in New Zealand.

• Family members can be included.

• Lower physical presence requirements for some categories.

Cons:

• Large sums needed — this is not for average savers.

• Public debate about housing and fairness.

• Detailed checks on where your money comes from and how it is used.

Final words — plain advice

The golden visa can be a good option if you have the money to invest and want New Zealand as a home or business base. It opens doors but comes with rules you must follow closely. Talk to a trusted immigration lawyer and financial adviser before you commit. And if you are visiting first, don’t forget the NZeTA Application Form and read the official Information About The NZeTA so your travel is smooth. For all official steps and the most accurate details, use Immigration New Zealand’s website and the government pages listed above.