In this episode of Trusted Insights, Aimee Mitchell speaks with Josh Kimpton, an immigration specialist, to unpack the complexities of New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus (AIP) Visa. Designed to attract high-value investors, the AIP Visa offers a pathway to residency through strategic investment. Josh provides a comprehensive overview of the visa’s structure, eligibility criteria, investment categories, and the broader implications for applicants and their families.

[00:56] Josh explains that the AIP Visa is New Zealand’s premium investor visa, structured to encourage foreign capital inflow. Applicants can choose between two investment tiers - NZD $5 million or NZD $10 million - depending on the category selected.

[01:31] Josh explains the two categories are defined as the growth and balanced categories. The growth category requires a NZD $5 million investment over three years, focusing on direct investments and approved managed funds. The balanced category requires NZD $10 million over five years and includes a broader range of lower-risk options such as property development, listed equities, government bonds, and philanthropic donations.

[02:17] Josh details what qualifies as acceptable investments under each category. Growth investments must be approved by Invest New Zealand and include direct business investments or managed funds. Balanced investments span approved equities, charitable donations, property development, and government bonds. Notably, balanced category investors may also invest in growth category assets.

[03:46] Josh explains how Invest New Zealand plays a pivotal role in the AIP Visa framework. Established by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, it determines acceptable investments and supports foreign investors throughout their residency journey.

[04:16] Aimee and Josh look at how the residency requirements differ between categories. Growth investors must spend at least 21 days in New Zealand over three years, while balanced investors must spend 105 days over five years. However, the latter can reduce this requirement by 14 days for every additional NZD $1 million invested, up to a maximum reduction of 42 days.

[05:10] Josh highlights how applicants must also complete an investment questionnaire at designated checkpoints to confirm retention of their nominated investments throughout the investment period.

[05:32] Josh outlines the pathway to citizenship. After completing the investment period, applicants may apply for permanent residency. Citizenship eligibility requires two years of permanent residency and meeting additional time-in-country requirements.

[06:23] Aimee and Josh move to discussing the application process. The application process is multi-step. Applicants must submit an investment plan, demonstrate ownership and source of funds, and meet health and character requirements. Upon receiving approval in principle, they have six months to transfer and invest funds, with a one-time extension available. Once investments are confirmed, the residency visa is issued and the investment period begins.

[07:56] Josh adds that family members can be included in the application. Only the principal applicant needs to meet the investment threshold. Partners and dependent children must meet health and character requirements, and definitions of dependency are governed by Immigration New Zealand.

[09:00] Aimee highlights that support is available throughout the process. MinterEllisonRuddWatts provides legal and strategic guidance, while Invest New Zealand offers promotional and aftercare support to help investors align with New Zealand’s economic strategy.

Information in this episode is accurate as at the date of recording, 11 September 2025.

For legal advice and guidance on any of the topics discussed, please contact Aimee Mitchell or our Private Wealth team or Joshua Kimpton or our Employment team. 

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