On 27 August 2025, the New Zealand Government announced a new Business Investor Visa (BIV) to attract experienced businesspeople to invest in, operate, and grow established businesses in New Zealand. The BIV opens for applications in November 2025 and replaces the Entrepreneur Work Visa, which is now closed to new applications.
The Entrepreneur Work Visa, introduced in 2014, was designed to contribute to economic growth by enabling migrants with business experience to grow or establish a high growth and innovative business with export potential in New Zealand. After running the business successfully for at least 2 years (or 6 months if certain high-growth criteria were met), Entrepreneur Work visa holders could apply for the Entrepreneur Residence Visa. However, this visa category faced persistent challenges, including low application numbers, long processing times, high decline rates, and the perceived lack of economic impact.
From 25 August 2025, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is no longer accepting new applications for the Entrepreneur Work Visa. INZ will continue to process applications already submitted. Current Entrepreneur Work Visa holders may apply for a further visa if they need more time to meet the requirements for an Entrepreneur Residence Visa, which will remain open for applications.
Applications for the BIV will open in November 2025, with two investment options:
Applicants must either purchase a business outright or acquire at least 25% of the business, provided the investment threshold (NZD $1 million or $2 million) is met.
In addition to meeting the investment threshold, applicants must:
The following business types are not acceptable business investments under the BIV policy:
Looking Ahead
The BIV complements the Active Investor Plus Visa, which was updated in April 2025, and is part of the Government’s broader refresh of business migration settings to attract investment, talent and international connections. Work is also underway on a new visa pathway for startup-entrepreneurs with scalable, innovative business ideas.
Full policy details, application processes, and guidance will be released by Immigration New Zealand in October 2025. Businesses and potential investors are encouraged to start preparing now by reviewing eligibility criteria and assessing potential investment opportunities.
Jaq Chong
Director, Immigration
Kim Gibbs
Manager, Immigration
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