If you’ve got a solid background in business ownership or senior management, New Zealand invites you to become part of our vibrant business community. By investing in a local business that’s been trading for five years or more, you can take the first step toward making New Zealand your new home. The BIV starts with a work visa, which gives you time to settle in and get involved in the business. Once you hit the key milestones, you’ll become eligible to apply for residence, as will your family.
This visa is ideal for hands-on business owners and seasoned entrepreneurs who are ready to actively manage and grow a New Zealand business. Whether you’ve built and run your own company or held a senior leadership role, the Business Investor Visa offers a compelling opportunity to bring your expertise into a thriving local enterprise. It’s designed for those who want to be directly involved in day-to-day operations, contribute to job creation, and become part of New Zealand’s dynamic business landscape.
The Business Investor Work Visa opens a pathway to New Zealand residency for business owners and will open for applications on 24 November 2025.
It’s important to be able to show that you’ve been actively involved in running the business during this time and met all regulatory and employment requirements along the way.
A Business Investor Resident Visa costs a further NZD $14,890.
Avancier Legal can help you in all investor visa legal services. They’ll support you in everything from your BIV application to final documentation support on NZ business visas.
At Avancier Legal, we are in our element with investor visa applications and planning cross-border migration for high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and globally mobile professionals.
Our lawyers have extensive experience working with foreign clients living and working in Asia, Latin America, North America, Europe and Oceania. They have worked on both offshore and onshore trust structures with multi-jurisdictional assets and companies. These structures hold financial assets, real estate and/or collectables (such as artwork, yachts, jets and classic cars)and some are designed to hold families’ businesses.
For Avancier Legal, investor visa applications and cross-border migration planning is our bread and butter.
Compliance involves meeting the investment thresholds, maintaining your investment for the required period, and fulfilling any active investment or residence requirements. Our legal team helps you understand these obligations, monitors your compliance milestones, and liaises with Immigration New Zealand on your behalf to ensure your visa remains in good standing.
While it’s not mandatory to engage a New Zealand-based lawyer, having local legal support can significantly streamline the process. Our team is based in New Zealand and specialises in business and immigration law, ensuring your application aligns with current regulations and minimising the risk of delays or rejections.
Yes. Expert legal advice ensures your business plan, investment strategy, and documentation meet Immigration New Zealand’s criteria. We help you present a strong case, avoid common pitfalls, and respond effectively to any queries or requests for further information, improving your chances of a successful residency outcome.
