Considering New Zealand as your next investment and lifestyle destination? The New Zealand Active Investor Plus (AIP) visa has become one of the most talked-about residence pathways for investors, and the numbers show why. Immigration New Zealand (INZ) reports 985 applications covering 3,206 people, with 511 already approved. About NZ$5.3 billion has been committed or is in the pipeline (INZ, as at 14 October 2026).
Here is what you need to know before you decide.
It’s a residence visa for investors who commit a set amount to New Zealand. You choose one of two categories, and you can include your partner and dependent children.
Most applicants have chosen Growth: 844 of the 985 applications so far. The investments you can make differ between the categories, so take licensed financial and tax advice before you commit funds.
Read our full guide to choosing between Growth and Balanced (link to blog 2)
There is no English language requirement. Your partner (if you’ve been together for at least 12 months) and dependent children under 24 can be included. You will need to prove that your funds are legitimately yours, and you and your family must meet INZ’s health and character requirements.
Find out what life in New Zealand looks like on this visa. (link to blog 4)
INZ says 80% of applications reach approval in principle within 11 weeks. Once the investment documentation has been provided, final approval takes an average of 36 working days. These are averages only, and your timing depends on how complete your documents are and how quickly your investment is arranged.
INZ says 80% of applications reach approval in principle within 11 weeks. Once the investment documentation has been provided, final approval takes an average of 36 working days. These are averages only, and your timing depends on how complete your documents are and how quickly your investment is arranged.
Step 1: Choose your category (Growth or Balanced).
Step 2: Apply and receive approval in principle.
Step 3: Transfer and invest your funds within 6 months of approval in principle (a 6-month extension can be applied for).
Step 4: Provide the investment documentation, and INZ grants your visa.
The Active Investor Plus visa is not the only option. We also assist with Australian visas and other New Zealand visas, so we can look at the pathway that suits your situation.
With over 35 years’ experience, Hitchcock & Associates is a migration agency based in Australia, with offices in South Africa and Vietnam. Our Managing Director, Cecil Bass, is a licensed NZ Immigration Adviser and assesses every Active Investor Plus enquiry.
The Active Investor Plus visa is a major decision, and getting the first step right makes everything that follows smoother. Download our free eligibility guide to see how the options compare or contact us today to book a consultation.
