New Zealand Investor Visa: Active Investor Plus Program

New Zealand: A Top-Tier Destination for Global Investors

New Zealand is emerging as one of the world’s hot spots for global investors seeking residency through investment. The country’s Active Investor Plus program has proven hugely popular so far in 2025, and it’s no surprise. When you look at the constant stream of global accolades this nation receives across multiple independent reports, New Zealand stands out as one of the most desirable places on earth to both live and invest.

There are hundreds of official surveys, indexes, polls and reports released every year: happiness reports, safety rankings, cost-of-living surveys, education indexes, energy transition trackers, tax efficiency studies – you name it. Each of these methodologies differs slightly, measuring different factors and weighting different values.

Whether or not you are a fan of such reports, one thing is for certain: they cannot all be wrong when it comes to New Zealand.

Time and again, across multiple independent global reports, New Zealand consistently ranks near the top. For investors weighing up where to place their capital, and, importantly, where to build a future for themselves and their families, these indicators matter. They paint a picture of a country that is not just economically stable but also socially secure, environmentally forward-thinking, and a truly safe haven in every sense of the word.

Where New Zealand Stands Out Globally

• World Happiness Report 2025 – Ranked #12 globally for life satisfaction.
• Global Peace Index 2025 – Ranked #3 safest country in the world, and the most peaceful in the Asia-Pacific.
• Healthcare – Ranked #1 best-performing healthcare system among peer nations (Commonwealth Fund 2024).
• Health & Wellbeing – Global Health Index score of 90.3, among the healthiest populations worldwide.
• Cost of Living – Ranked amongst the top 20 most affordable countries; significantly lower costs than the US, with rent 38% cheaper (Numbeo).
• Education – Ranked #6 globally, tied with Finland, for world-class education standards (Education Index 2025).
• Renewable Energy – Over 80% of electricity from renewable sources and a record 45.5% of total energy supply from renewables in 2024 (IEA, MBIE).
• Tax Efficiency – Ranked #3 most efficient tax system in the OECD (Tax Foundation, OECD).

Taken together, these rankings are not simply numbers on a page. They reflect the lived experience of New Zealand residents: safety for families, strong healthcare, quality education, sustainable energy, efficient taxation, and overall life satisfaction. In an uncertain world, New Zealand offers certainty.

The New Zealand Active Investor Plus Visa

For investors considering a residency in New Zealand, the pathway is the Active Investor Plus Visa. This program requires a minimum commitment of NZD $5 million, invested into private equities or managed funds that help drive and support New Zealand businesses. In return, the visa grants successful applicants with along term residency visa, with the possibility of applying for citizenship later down the line. Importantly, investors can also include their immediate families in the application, ensuring not just a personal Plan B, but a generational asset.

Unlike many investor visas worldwide, New Zealand’s approach is designed to encourage meaningful, long-term contributions to the economy while offering unrivalled lifestyle and security benefits in return.

New Policy: Residential Property Options Now Open to AIP Visa Holders

In an exciting development, on 1st September 2025, the New Zealand Government announced that Active Investor Plus (AIP) visa holders will now be allowed to buy or build one home in New Zealand, as long as it is valued at NZD 5 million or more.

This policy change gives investors the opportunity to put down deeper roots by purchasing a home if they wish, whilst simultaneously making a meaningful contribution to the economy through their AIP investment.

The New Zealand Government has shown it is highly accommodating towards investors. Earlier this year, they also introduced the Parent Boost Visa, which allows parents of residents and citizens to join their families more easily. These developments demonstrate that the government is actively refining and expanding its immigration pathways—with a clear commitment to attracting and supporting global investors who want to contribute to the nation’s future.

Key Features of the Active Investor Plus Visa:

• Minimum NZD $5 million investment (via private equities or managed funds channelled into New Zealand businesses).
• Pathway to permanent residency and eventual citizenship in New Zealand.
  Family eligibility – spouse and dependent children can be included in the same visa application.
• Government-backed security with a stable, transparent immigration framework.
• Residency rights in one of the world’s safest and most liveable countries. Minimum stay of 21 days over 3 years
• Ability to also purchase residential property (valued at NZD 5 million or more).

How La Vida Can Help You Secure New Zealand Residency

At La Vida, we specialise in aligning investor priorities, security, wellness, lifestyle, and legacy, with the right residency and citizenship programs. For many, New Zealand’s Residency by Investment program ticks all the boxes. Whether you are seeking a healthier lifestyle, a safer environment, or a stable and sustainable jurisdiction for your family’s future, New Zealand consistently proves itself to be a top-tier choice.

To find out more, please get in touch with La Vida’s experts.

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Tags: Golden Visa 2025, New Zealand, Residency Visa