Big news for business migrants! New Zealand is replacing its underperforming Entrepreneur Work Visa with the new Business Investor Visa (BIV), which will be rolled out in November 2025. The BIV requires a minimum NZ$1 million investment in existing businesses, with two pathways: NZ$1 million provides a three-year route to permanent residency, while NZ$2 million offers a fast-track to PR within 12 months.

Applicants must have business experience, be under 55, meet English requirements, and spend 184 days a year in NZ. Specific sectors, such as fast food and convenience stores, are off-limits. Immigration Minister Erica Stanford says the new visa will boost jobs, grow incomes, and bring real investment into New Zealand’s economy.