Active Investor Plus – Growth Fund Visa:
An entry point for active investors and venture capitalists

What’s different about the AIP Growth fund?

The Active Investor Plus Visa is a New Zealand residency pathway for high-net-worth individuals who invest NZD $5 million or more into approved growth funds or businesses. The Growth Fund option is tailormade for entrepreneurs and venture capitalists seeking scalable investment opportunities in New Zealand’s innovation economy.

Investing in the AIP Growth Fund is more than a way to residency—it’s a chance to be part of New Zealand’s story. By backing local businesses, local fund managers and getting behind innovation, applicants help build a thriving economy in one of the most beautiful and inviting places on earth.

The AIP Growth Visa will suit dynamic investors looking for high-growth opportunities. Those who are looking for an ‘in’ on New Zealand’s business ecosystem could find their opening here.

What’s great about the AIP visa programme

  • Residency for the whole family: The visa includes your spouse and dependent children (aged 24 and under).
  • No English language requirement: Increased accessibility for international investors.
  • No age restriction.
  • Flexible residency requirements: Varies based on investment type and amount.
  • Diverse investment opportunities: Choose from managed funds or direct investment into private businesses.
  • Structured for growth and wealth preservation: Aligns with both risk-tolerant and conservative strategies.

The Growth Fund visa will suit:

Serial entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, and private equity professionals seeking New Zealand immigration through investment. Investors who are passionate about growing businesses and driving innovation in New Zealand will find exciting opportunities through this pathway.

The Growth category offers access to a wide selection of managed funds and New Zealand businesses, encompassing a diverse array of investment opportunities. Some of these options may involve a higher level of risk.

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Looking for a more balanced investment approach?

The Balanced AIP Visa is good for investors looking for a mixed portfolio with a focus on different risk options. It has a short 21 day minimum stay requirement over 3 years and the investment options include investing into managed funds and private businesses.

AIP - Balanced Fund

Here's what New Zealand residency by investment requires:

  • Minimum investment: NZD 5 million
  • Minimum stay: 21 days over 3 years
  • Investment types: Direct investments in NZ businesses or approved managed funds
  • Focus areas: Technology, advanced manufacturing, sustainability, and innovation sectors
  • Evidence: You’ll need proof that your funds have remained invested for at least three-years. Once you’ve met all the requirements, you and your family can apply for permanent New Zealand residence, then go on to citizenship.

Active Investor Plus (AIP) Resident Visa – New Zealand’s golden visa equivalent

Although there isn't a New Zealand gold visa per se. The closest thing is the Active Investor Plus Visa (AIP), which is gold for those seeking a direct, high-impact way into residency while delaying their tax residency. With a shorter investment period and lower minimum investment, this may be an option for you.

The AIP Visa is a streamlined pathway that rewards those willing to take on greater investment risk with a lower capital requirement. Designed to attract strategic investment, the AIP Visa is the way into one of the world’s most stable, prosperous, and innovation-driven economies.

Strategic advantages of the AIP visa programme

  • Boosts economic development: Invest in productive sectors that drive jobs and innovation.
  • Supports business succession: Engage in Small to Medium Enterprise (SME) ownership transitions across New Zealand.
  • Global mobility: Residency in a peaceful, democratic country with strong global ties.
  • Rigorous due diligence: Ensures investor credibility and programme integrity.
  • New Zealand Citizenship could be reached through this investment path after obtaining permanent residence.

Why Invest in New Zealand?

New Zealand consistently ranks as one of the top countries for doing business and living well. Investors benefit from:

  • A transparent, stable environment
  • World-class healthcare and education
  • Sustainable economic policies
  • High quality of life and natural beauty
  • Proximity to Asia-Pacific markets
Moving to New Zealand

Avancier Legal specialise in AIP Visa applications and pre-migration planning

At Avancier Legal, we are in our element with investor visa applications and planning cross-border migration,  tax, structuring and succession for high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and globally mobile professionals.

For Avancier Legal, investor visa applications and cross-border migration planning is our bread and butter.  for high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and globally mobile professionals.

Pre-migration planning

Our services Include:

  • Investor Visa Strategy & Application
    • End-to-end legal support for AIP Growth or Balanced pathways
    • Coordination with investment advisors, investment managers, business brokers and immigration authorities
  • Pre-Immigration Legal & Tax Planning
    • Jurisdictional analysis, timing, and cross-border structuring
    • Coordination with tax and financial advisors
  • Relocation & Settlement Support
    • Education, housing, and business setup advice
    • Post-arrival legal and compliance assistance in NZ and Australia
  • Ensuring a smooth and secure transition to New Zealand utilising our ecosystem of well-regarded professionals, experts and business contacts including:
    • Wealth managers
    • Accountants
    • Bankers
    • Property and business experts
    • Relocation professionals

FAQs: Active Investor Plus (AIP) - Growth fund

Is there a New Zealand Golden Visa?

Although there isn't a New Zealand gold visa per se, the closest thing is the Active Investor Plus Visa (AIP), which is gold for those seeking a direct, high-impact way into residency while delaying their tax residency. We can help you work out the best pathway to residency for you.

Pre-migration planning

How do I apply for the Active Investor Plus Visa?

To apply for the Active Investor Plus Visa, you’ll need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to Immigration New Zealand. Once invited, you can lodge a formal application, including proof of funds, investment plans, and identity documents. Avancier Legal provides end-to-end legal support for investor visa applications, ensuring your submission meets all regulatory and timing requirements.

Pre-migration planning

Can I get New Zealand citizenship through investment?

Yes, New Zealand citizenship by investment is possible, but it’s a multi-stage process. First, you must obtain residency through the Active Investor Plus Visa. After maintaining your investment and meeting residency requirements (including a minimum stay of 21 days over 3 years), you may apply for permanent residency. Citizenship can follow once you meet the criteria set by the Department of Internal Affairs.

What are the tax implications for US investors?

New Zealand does not impose a capital gains tax in most cases, and has no gift, no inheritance and no estate tax.  It has a network of double taxation agreements, including with the United States. However, US investors should be aware of their ongoing IRS obligations. Avancier Legal offers pre-immigration legal and tax planning, working alongside your US  advisors to ensure compliance and optimal structuring for cross-border investment.

It all starts with a conversation