Business Investor Visa NZ | Apply Nov 2025 for Fast Residence

Q: When can I apply?

Applications open November 2025 . Begin preparation now to be ready on day one.

Q: Does the business have to be “existing”?

Yes. The BIV is designed for established businesses. (A separate pathway for startup entrepreneurs is being developed.)

Q: What’s the difference between the $1m and $2m options?

$1m+ leads to a 3-year work-to-residence pathway; $2m+ offers a 12-month fast-track to residence.

Q: Is the old Entrepreneur Work Visa still available?

No. The Entrepreneur category is retiring. BIV replaces it as the primary pathway for hands-on investors in existing businesses.

Get In Touch with experts

Applications open in November 2025. There will be two tracks to the residence visa for experienced investors. We’ll help you prepare a compliant, and compelling case.

What’s new?

The New Zealand Government has unveiled the Business Investor Visa (BIV) — a modern, targeted pathway to residence for experienced businesspeople ready to invest in, operate, and grow established New Zealand businesses.

Visa options (from November 2025)

NZD $1,000,000+ in an existing NZ business
- 3-year work-to-residence pathway
NZD $2,000,000+ in an existing NZ business
- 12-month fast-track to residence

You can click here to submit your interest to us – Click Here

The BIV is part of a broader refresh of business migration settings (alongside the improved Active Investor Plus). The Entrepreneur Category is being retired due to low impact. Work is also underway on a future pathway for startup entrepreneurs with scalable, innovative ideas.

Why act now?

Strong applications take time. If you plan to invest and take an active role in a New Zealand business, start planning now so you’re application-ready when the category opens.

How Immigration Advisers New Zealand Ltd can help

Eligibility & strategy session – align your profile, capital, and timelines with the right BIV track.
Investment fit & role planning – confirm “established business” and your hands-on role meet policy intent.
Document roadmap – source-of-funds, business case, company records, role description, compliance evidence.
Risk & timelines – sequencing, dependants, and how BIV compares with other business pathways.
Application preparation & representation – compile, quality-check, lodge, and liaise with INZ to decision.

What to prepare (now)

Passport + current visas (for you and family)
Proof of funds & source of funds (bank statements, sale deeds, audited summaries)
Professional/management experience (CV, references, role descriptions)
Investment intent (sector, target size, location; basic info if you have a target business)
Any NZ connections (advisers, brokers, accountants) you’re already speaking with

Our process

Discover call – your goals, timelines, investment range
Strategy & checklist – tailored BIV plan and evidence map
Document build – business case, SOF, role & compliance pack
Lodgement & liaison – we submit and represent you to INZ
Next steps – arrival planning, post-approval obligations, family support

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I apply?

Applications open November 2025. Begin preparation now to be ready on day one.

Does the business have to be “existing”?

Yes. The BIV is designed for established businesses. (A separate pathway for startup entrepreneurs is being developed.)

What’s the difference between the $1m and $2m options?

$1m+ leads to a 3-year work-to-residence pathway; $2m+ offers a 12-month fast-track to residence.

Is the old Entrepreneur Work Visa still available?

No. The Entrepreneur category is retiring. BIV replaces it as the primary pathway for hands-on investors in existing businesses.

Can my family be included?

Yes, eligible partners and dependent children can usually be included. We’ll confirm based on your circumstances.

Ready to explore your options?

Book a consultation with us. If you prefer WhatsApp, share your number and the best time to chat. Alternatively, email us with details about your country, capital range (1–2m+), and target timeline to receive a tailored callback.

Reach out to us at contact@nzimmigration.info, or call us at +64 9 379 0219.