2026 update: The old "Investor 1" and "Investor 2" visa categories were discontinued in 2022 and replaced by the Active Investor Plus visa. The Active Investor Plus requires a minimum NZ$5 million investment in approved growth assets over 4 years. If you are researching investor immigration to NZ, please speak to a licensed immigration adviser to confirm current requirements before planning around specific thresholds.
The information below provides historical context on how the old categories differed and may help you understand references to Investor 1 and Investor 2 you encounter in older documents or forum posts.
This comprehensive guide compares both categories across all key criteria, explaining requirements, timelines, and practical considerations for prospective investor migrants.
Understanding the Investor Categories
Overview of Both Pathways
New Zealand's investor residence categories recognize that high-net-worth individuals can benefit the country through capital investment, business expertise, and networks. Rather than requiring employment or sponsorship, these categories provide residence based on investment commitments.
Investor 1 (Active Investor Plus Visa): Requires higher investment thresholds but offers more flexibility in terms of age and English requirements. This category suits ultra-high-net-worth individuals prioritizing flexibility over cost minimization.
Investor 2 (Investor Migrant Category): Requires lower investment amounts but has additional requirements including age limits and English language competence. This category suits high-net-worth individuals who meet the additional criteria.
Important Changes
Investment immigration categories have undergone significant reforms. The current settings reflect policy changes aimed at attracting "active" investors who contribute more than just capital. Always verify current requirements with Immigration New Zealand or a licensed immigration adviser, as settings change over time.
Investor 1 (Active Investor Plus Visa)
Investment Requirements
Investor 1 requires substantial capital investment in New Zealand:
Minimum Investment: Currently NZD $15 million over a 4-year period, though requirements have varied and may change.
Acceptable Investments: The category emphasizes "acceptable" investments beyond simply parking money in term deposits. Focus areas typically include:
- Direct investment in New Zealand businesses
- Managed funds investing in New Zealand companies
- Qualifying bonds and financial products
- Philanthropic contributions (portions may count)
The emphasis is on investments that actively benefit New Zealand's economy through job creation, innovation support, or productive capital allocation.
Age and English Requirements
Investor 1 has no age limit—applicants of any age can apply provided they meet investment and other criteria.
There are generally no formal English language requirements for Investor 1, recognizing that ultra-high-net-worth individuals contribute through capital rather than workforce participation.
Time in New Zealand Requirements
Investor 1 has reduced time-in-New Zealand requirements compared to other categories. Investors typically need to spend a minimum of 40 days in New Zealand per year during the investment period, though specific requirements should be verified.
This flexibility suits individuals who maintain business interests globally and cannot relocate entirely to New Zealand.
Pathway to Permanent Residence
After maintaining investment for the required period and meeting residence conditions, Investor 1 visa holders can progress to permanent residence.
The pathway provides certainty—meeting the conditions leads to permanent residence without competitive selection or points assessment.
Investor 2 (Investor Migrant Category)
Investment Requirements
Investor 2 requires lower investment than Investor 1:
Minimum Investment: Currently NZD $5 million over a 4-year period, though requirements may change.
Growth Investments: A portion of the investment may need to be in designated "growth" investments that support innovation and high-growth businesses, rather than passive investments.
Acceptable Investments: Similar to Investor 1 but with the growth investment component. Term deposits and residential property don't constitute acceptable investments.
Age Requirements
Investor 2 has age limits that don't apply to Investor 1:
Maximum Age: Generally 65 years at time of application (verify current requirements).
This age limit reflects the broader contribution expectations—Investor 2 applicants are expected to potentially participate more actively in New Zealand's economy and society.
English Language Requirements
Investor 2 requires basic English language competence:
Standard: Generally IELTS 3.0 or equivalent across all bands.
While not a high threshold, this requirement exists for Investor 2 but not Investor 1. Applicants should prepare for English testing if they don't have exempt qualifications or experience.
Time in New Zealand Requirements
Investor 2 typically requires more time in New Zealand than Investor 1:
Residence Requirement: Generally 146 days per year during the investment period, compared to 40 days for Investor 1.
This more substantial presence requirement reflects the expectation that Investor 2 applicants will integrate more fully into New Zealand life.
Business Experience Requirements
Investor 2 applicants must demonstrate business experience. This typically includes:
- Three or more years' experience in senior business positions
- Experience as a company director or senior executive
- Demonstrated business acumen through track record
This requirement doesn't apply to Investor 1, which focuses purely on investment capacity.
Comparison Summary
| Criteria | Investor 1 | Investor 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Investment Amount | NZD $15 million | NZD $5 million |
| Investment Period | 4 years | 4 years |
| Age Limit | None | 65 years |
| English Requirement | None | IELTS 3.0 |
| Business Experience | None | 3+ years |
| Time in NZ (annual) | ~40 days | ~146 days |
Choosing the Right Category
When to Choose Investor 1
Investor 1 suits applicants who:
- Have very high net worth (NZD $15 million+ available for investment)
- Are older than the Investor 2 age limit
- Cannot meet English language requirements
- Can spend up to 4 months per year in New Zealand
- Want maximum flexibility in residence conditions
The premium investment amount buys flexibility across all other requirements.
When to Choose Investor 2
Investor 2 suits applicants who:
- Have significant but not ultra-high net worth ($5-15 million)
- Are under 65 years old
- Can demonstrate basic English competence
- Are willing to spend significant time in New Zealand
- Have business experience to demonstrate
The lower investment threshold comes with additional requirements that must be met.
Financial Considerations
Beyond the headline investment amounts, consider:
Opportunity Cost: Capital invested in New Zealand may have lower returns than alternative investments. Assess expected returns against the value you place on New Zealand residence.
Investment Risk: Acceptable investments carry varying risk profiles. Direct business investment may deliver higher returns but carries more risk than managed funds.
Tax Implications: New Zealand tax settings may apply to investment income. Seek tax advice specific to your circumstances.
Exit Options: If your circumstances change, understand options for withdrawing investment after the required period.
The Investment Process
Demonstrating Funds
You must prove that investment funds are:
Legitimately acquired: Source of wealth must be explained and documented. Inheritance, business profits, property sales, employment income—whatever the source, you must demonstrate it.
Not borrowed: Funds must be your own, not borrowed against New Zealand assets or potentially from other sources that would undermine the investment's genuineness.
Legally transferable: You must be able to lawfully transfer funds from their current location to New Zealand.
Investment Verification
Immigration New Zealand works with financial advisers and compliance specialists to verify investments. Expect scrutiny of:
- Bank records and financial statements
- Business ownership documentation
- Property valuations and sale records
- Tax records from origin countries
- Explanation of wealth accumulation
Acceptable Investment Types
The categories emphasize productive investment over passive capital preservation:
Generally Acceptable:
- Shares in New Zealand companies
- Bonds issued by New Zealand entities
- Managed funds investing in New Zealand
- Direct business ownership
- Some philanthropy (within limits)
Generally Not Acceptable:
- Residential property investment
- Bank term deposits (or limited)
- Investments in your own company (with restrictions)
- Personal use assets
Maintaining Investments
During the investment period, you must maintain investment at required levels. Regular reporting demonstrates compliance. Significant investment changes should be discussed with Immigration New Zealand.
Family Inclusion
Partners and Children
Both investor categories allow inclusion of:
- Your partner (married or de facto)
- Dependent children (meeting age and dependency requirements)
Family members receive residence alongside you without separate applications.
Family Member Requirements
Family members must meet:
- Health requirements
- Character requirements
- Genuine relationship evidence (for partners)
They don't need to independently meet investment or English requirements.
After Receiving Residence
Progressing to Permanent Residence
After maintaining your investment and meeting residence conditions for the required period, you can apply for permanent residence. This provides indefinite residence rights without ongoing investment obligations.
Returning to New Zealand
Resident visa holders can travel freely but must meet travel conditions. Permanent residents have indefinite travel rights.
Working and Business Rights
Residence provides full work rights. You can:
- Work for any employer
- Start or buy businesses
- Invest in any manner
- Pursue any economic activity
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I invest in residential property?
Generally no—residential property doesn't count toward investment requirements. The categories prioritize productive investment over property acquisition.
What if my investment loses value?
Investment losses may affect your ability to maintain required investment levels. You may need to top up investments to maintain minimum thresholds during the investment period.
Can I start a business instead of purely investing?
Business investment counts toward requirements. However, for business ownership focused pathways, the Entrepreneur categories may be more appropriate depending on investment levels.
Do I need to live in New Zealand during the investment period?
Yes, minimum time requirements apply—40 days annually for Investor 1, 146 days for Investor 2 typically. You must demonstrate presence through travel records.
What happens after the investment period ends?
You can withdraw investment after the required period (typically 4 years) and retain your residence status. Many investors choose to maintain some New Zealand exposure.
Can I apply from any country?
Generally yes, though specific requirements may apply depending on your nationality and current location. Character requirements apply regardless of origin country.
Considering investor immigration to New Zealand? Find a licensed immigration adviser who specializes in investor categories to assess your eligibility and guide your application.