In early March 2025, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) released new policies for the Active Investor Plus (AIP) visa. As we discussed in our previous article More ways to Invest: Active Investor Plus Visa Changes, two simplified categories—Growth and Balanced—will replace the existing framework from 1 April 2025.

Key Changes to AIP Visa

The key changes are summarised in the table below (adapted from INZ’s factsheet):

 

Key Features	Growth	Balanced
Minimum Investment Amount	NZD $5 million	NZD $10 million
Acceptable Investments	New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) determines investments are acceptable: Managed funds Direct investments	INZ determines investments are acceptable Bonds (Government, local government, corporate, traded on NZDX) Listed equities  New property development (residential, rental, social housing; commercial and industrial; investment sensitive land as specified and approved by the Overseas Investment Office (OIO)) Existing commercial or industrial property developments (including investment in sensitive land as specified and approved by the OIO) Philanthropy Direct investments Managed funds
Investment Period	3 years	5 years
Time to be spent in NZ	21 days	105 days * unless eligible for a reduction by investing above the minimum investment amount into direct investments or managed funds. $11 million = 14-day reduction $12 million = 28-day reduction $13 million = 42-day reduction
Time to transfer and invest	6 months from the date of Approval in Principle, with the option to apply for a one 6 month extension (12 months total)
Section 49 investment retention checkpoints	24 months 36 months	24 months 60 months
English Language	No requirement	No requirement

Key Changes to Acceptable investments

The updated instructions offer greater flexibility, allowing a broader range of businesses and funds to qualify. This provides more investment opportunities for investor migrants and enhances capital-raising options for New Zealand companies to raise capital.

While these updates may create the impression that securing a visa through investment is now easier, the process remains complex. One of the most critical aspects is ensuring that the investment meets the new eligibility criteria.

Growth Category

Under the new rules, NZTE will assess Growth Category investments, with key changes including:

1. Investments no longer need to demonstrate potential for “global success” or “high growth”. Businesses focused on the domestic market can now be considered, however, need to deliver economic and other positive impact for New Zealand.
2. Business model should not involve property acquisition or ownership;
3. Investments in businesses that depend on property as part of their business model are allowed in the following sectors:

• Technology
• Manufacturing
• Food and beverage
• Renewable energy
• Aged care
• Primary sector (e.g., horticulture, including post-harvest infrastructure, forestry, agriculture, aquaculture)
• Infrastructure (e.g., tourism, film, health, and education).

These changes significantly expand direct investment opportunities, allowing AIP applicants to invest in businesses aligned with their interests while supporting New Zealand’s economic growth.

 

Direct Investments

 To qualify as an acceptable direct investment under the new instructions, an investor must:

1. Invest in one of the following:

• Listed equities deemed acceptable under INZ instructions as a wholesale investor
• An equity security in an investee entity
• A financial product (e.g., convertible note, preference share, or Simple Agreement for Future Equity) that can be converted into an equity security in an investee entity

2. Obtain confirmation from NZTE that either:

• The listed equity investment was pre-approved by NZTE before funds were invested, or
• The investee entity qualifies as an acceptable direct investment

3. Maintain ownership interest by:

• Holding a direct ownership interest in the entity, or
• Holding a sole beneficial interest in a trust whose trustee has a direct ownership interest in the entity, or
• Appointing a nominee under a bare nominee structure to hold shares or securities on their behalf

Even if the investee entity ceases to be a New Zealand resident entity post-investment, the funds will still be considered an acceptable investment.

Managed Funds

 Managed funds investments must be made in:

• Managed investment products issued by a scheme listed on NZTE’s acceptable managed fund list
• A discretionary investment management service listed as acceptable by NZTE

A managed fund product is not classified as an acceptable Growth Category investment unless it is on NZTE’s list. However, it may qualify under the Balanced Category investment class if it is structured to raise funds for:

• Investing in listed equities that meet INZ’s requirements
• Residential, commercial, or industrial property acquisition or development meeting INZ’s requirements
• Bonds that meet INZ’s requirements

 On-Call Investments

 Investors placing funds in managed funds but awaiting fund manager allocation must hold them in on-call investments.  Main conditions include:

• Legal Agreement: A binding commitment must exist.
• Fund Management: Managed by the investor or an authorized party (e.g., a bank or financial adviser).
• Investment Compliance: Must meet NZ regulatory and Financial Markets Authority requirements.
• Investment Restrictions: Funds may be temporarily held in NZ bank accounts or term deposits (up to six months).

 Balanced Category

 Property Development

To qualify as acceptable, investments in property development must fall into one of the following categories:

1. New property developments, including:
   1. Residential
   2. Commercial
   3. Industrial
2. Existing commercial or industrial property developments.

For developments on sensitive land, approval under the Overseas Investment Act 2005 is required, either through consent or an exemption.

a. Residential Property Development: For a residential development to be eligible, it must meet these conditions:

• It must be a new development (not a renovation or extension).
• The development must increase the housing stock (more than a single dwelling).
• It must have the necessary approvals or consents from relevant authorities.
• The investment should aim for a commercial return, such as rental income.
• The applicant or their family cannot reside in the developments.

b. Commercial/Industrial Property Development: Commercial or industrial property developments are acceptable if they:

• Are used for business purposes (not residential).
• Are capable of generating a commercial return.
• Are not vacant land unless development plans are submitted and work has started.
• Include improvement plans approved by INZ.
• The applicant or their family cannot live in the development.
• If a new development, the necessary resource consents must be in place.

c. Industrial Property includes facilities such as warehouses, manufacturing, distribution, and logistics.

 Bonds

To qualify as acceptable investment, the bonds must be placed in:

• Issued by the New Zealand government or local authorities.
• Traded on the New Zealand Debt Securities Market (NZDX).
• Issued by New Zealand firms with at least a BBB- rating from recognized credit rating agencies.
• Issued by New Zealand registered banks.
• Issued by finance companies that are wholly owned subsidiaries of an NZX-listed company or local authority, raise capital solely for the parent, and have an unconditional guarantee from the parent.

Managed funds investing in bonds may also qualify if the underlying bonds meet these requirements.

Challenges

The changes to the AIP policies are aimed at making New Zealand a more attractive destination for investment. The key benefits of these policy updates include:

• Increasing the scope of acceptable investment – providing more flexibility for investors.
• Removing the English language requirement – making the process more accessible to investors from non-English-speaking countries, e.g. China.
• Reducing the time spent in New Zealand- allowing for a more efficient investment experience.
• Reducing the investment timeframes – helping investors achieve their goals more quickly.
• Removing the cap on investment – offering greater opportunities for larger-scale investments.
• Simplifying investment process – streamlining procedures for faster approvals and easier navigation. Applications are assessed by NZTE AIP Committee approximately fortnightly.

However, despite these advantages, investors may still encounter challenges. These include:

1. Legally acquired funds – The nominated funds and/or assets must be legally earned or acquired, free from encumbrances, and have acceptable valuations.
2. Transferring funds from countries with foreign exchange controls, e.g. China – The Qualified Domestic Institutional Investor (QDII) and Qualified Domestic Limited Partnership (QDLP) schemes are not accepted in AIP applications. As such, investors from these regions should engage professionals early to develop a customised investment plan that ensures compliance with all regulatory requirements.
3. Due diligence for investment decisions – All investments carry risks, whether in the growth or balanced category. Conducting thorough due diligence on potential projects and seeking professional advice can help reduce risks and increase the potential benefits of your investment. It is important to approach the process as an investment opportunity, not just as a path to obtaining a visa.

 Message to Investors

 While these changes may give the impression that securing a visa by bringing funds into New Zealand is now easier, the process remains complex. The key factor is ensuring investments meet the strict criteria set by INZ and NZTE.

Investors must carefully structure their funds to align with these requirements to secure eligibility under the AIP scheme. Seeking expert guidance from the outset is crucial to navigating complexities and making informed investment decisions.

How We Can Help

Our team combines expertise in immigration, commercial, and property to provide comprehensive guidance tailored to your needs. Whether you require assistance with immigration procedures, investment structuring, or property regulations, we are here to help.

Feel free to reach out for expert advice and a personalised strategy to make your investment and visa application process as smooth as possible.

Please note that this article not a substitute for legal advice and you should contact your lawyer about your specific situation. Please feel free to contact us by email immigration@parryfield.com or by phone 03 348 8480.

—

新规定，新机遇: 2025年积极投资者(AIP)签证指南

 

2025年3月初，新西兰移民局（INZ）发布了新的积极投资者（AIP）签证政策。如之前讨论的，自2025年4月1日起，现有框架将被两个简化类别——增长类（Growth）和平衡类（Balanced）取代。

 AIP 签证的主要变更

 

主要变化总结如下表：

	增长类别	平衡类别
最低投资额	$500万纽币	$1千万纽币
可接受投资	由新西兰贸易发展局（NZTE）确定可接受的投资： 管理基金 直接投资	由INZ确定可接受的投资： 债券（政府债券、地方政府债券、公司债券、在NZDX交易） 上市股票 新房地产开发（住宅、租赁、社会住房；商业和工业项目；需海外投资办公室（OIO）批准的敏感土地） 现有商业或工业房地产开发（包括投资OIO批准的敏感土地） 慈善投资 直接投资 管理基金
投资期限	3年	5年
在新西兰停留时间	21天	105天 * 若投资额超过最低投资要求，可减少停留时间。·         $1.1千万纽币 = 减少14天停留时间·         $1.2千万纽币= 减少28天停留时间 $1.3千万纽币= 减少42天停留时间
资金转移及投资期限	自原则批准日起6个月（可申请额外6个月延期，最多12个月）
第49条投资保留核查时间点	24 月 36 月	24 月 60 月
英语要求	无要求

可接受投资的关键变化

最新规定提供了更大的灵活性，使更多企业和基金符合资格。这为投资移民提供了更多投资机会，同时增强了新西兰企业的集资选择。

尽管这些更新可能让人觉得通过投资获得签证变得更容易，但整个流程依然复杂。其中最关键的一点是确保投资符合新的资格标准。

 

增长型

 根据新规定，NZTE将评估增长类别投资，主要变化包括：

1. 投资不再需要证明其具有“全球成功”或“高增长”潜力。专注于国内市场的企业现在也可被纳入考量，但需为新西兰带来经济及其他积极影响。
2. 商业模式不得涉及房地产收购或持有。
3. 以下行业中涉及房地产作为商业模式一部分的企业可获批准：

1. • 科技
   • 制造业
   • 食品和饮料
   • 可再生能源
   • 老年护理
   • 第一产业（如园艺，包括后收获基础设施、林业、农业、水产养殖）
   • 基础设施（如旅游、电影、医疗和教育）

这些变化大大拓展了直接投资的机会，使高净值投资移民AIP申请人能够投资符合自身兴趣的企业，同时推动新西兰经济增长。

 

直接投资

 要符合新规定下的可接受直接投资，投资者必须：

1. 投资于以下之一：

1. • 依照INZ政策，作为批发投资者投资于认可的上市股票
   • 被投资企业的股权证券
   • 可转换为被投资企业的股权证券的金融产品（如可转换债券、优先股或未来股权简单协议）
2. 获得NZTE确认，确保：
   • 上市股票投资在资金投入前已获得NZTE预先批准，或
   • 被投资企业符合可接受直接投资的条件
3. 维持所有权权益方式：

• • 直接持有被投资企业的所有权权益，或
  • 作为信托唯一受益人，信托受托人持有被投资企业的所有权权益，或
  • 指定名义受托人代表持有股份或证券

即使被投资企业在投资后不再是新西兰本地企业，资金仍被视为可接受投资。

管理基金

管理基金投资必须：

• 购买NZTE认可基金清单上的管理基金产品
• 选择NZTE认可的自主投资管理服务

管理基金产品不被归类为可接受的增长类别投资，除非列入NZTE清单。然而，如果基金专注于以下领域，可归入平衡类别投资：

• 投资符合INZ要求的上市股票
• 投资符合INZ要求的住宅、商业或工业地产收购或开发
• 投资符合INZ要求的债券

 短期流动性（on-call）投资

 投资者将基金存入管理基金，但等待基金经理配置时，必须存入短期流动性（活期）投资。主要条件包括：

• 法律协议：必须有具约束力的承诺。
• 资金管理：由投资者或授权方（如银行或财务顾问）管理。
• 投资合规性：必须符合新西兰监管和金融市场管理局（FMA）要求。
• 投资限制：资金可临时存入新西兰银行账户或定期存款（最长六个月）。

 平衡型

 房地产开发

 要符合可接受投资标准，房地产开发投资必须属于以下类别之一：

1. 新建房地产开发，包括：
   • 住宅
   • 商业
   • 工业
2. 现有的商业或工业房地产开发。

对于涉及敏感土地的开发，必须根据《2005年海外投资法》获得批准，或符合豁免条件。

 

a. 住宅房地产开发

必须满足以下条件：

• 必须是新开发项目（非翻新或扩建）。
• 必须增加住房存量（超过单户住宅）。
• 必须获得相关机构的必要批准或许可。
• 投资应以商业回报为目标，例如租金收入。
• 申请人及其家人不得居住于开发项目中。

 b. 商业/工业房地产开发

必须符合以下标准：

• 仅用于商业目的（不得用于住宅）。
• 能够产生商业回报。
• 不得是闲置土地，除非已提交开发计划且工程已启动。
• 必须有INZ批准的改进计划。
• 申请人及其家人不得居住在开发项目中。
• 若为新开发，必须具备必要的资源许可。

c. 工业地产,包括仓储、制造、配送和物流等设施。

 债券

可接受的债券投资必须满足以下条件之一：

• 由新西兰政府或地方政府发行。
• 在新西兰债务证券市场（NZDX）交易。
• 由获得公认信用评级机构至少BBB-评级的新西兰公司发行。
• 由新西兰注册银行发行。
• 由NZX上市公司或地方政府全资子公司发行，仅为母公司筹集资金，并获得母公司无条件担保。

投资于债券的管理基金也可符合要求，前提是其基础债券符合上述标准。

 

挑战

AIP政策的变化旨在使新西兰成为一个更具吸引力的投资目的地。这些政策更新的主要好处包括：

• 扩大可接受投资的范围 – 为投资者提供更多灵活性。
• 取消英语语言要求 – 使来自非英语国家（如中国）的投资者更容易参与。
• 减少在新西兰的停留时间 – 使投资过程更加高效。
• 缩短投资时限 – 帮助投资者更快地实现目标。
• 取消投资上限 – 提供更大规模投资的机会。
• 简化投资流程 – 简化程序，加快审批速度，便于导航。申请将由新西兰贸易和企业部（NZTE）AIP委员会大约每两周评审一次。

然而，尽管有这些优势，投资者仍然可能面临一些挑战。这些挑战包括：

1. 合法获得的资金 – 提名的资金和/或资产必须合法赚取或获得，且没有任何负担，并且估值需符合要求。
2. 来自外汇管制国家的资金转移（如中国） – 合格的国内机构投资者（QDII）和合格的国内有限合伙人（QDLP）计划不被接受用于AIP申请。因此，来自这些国家的投资者应尽早与专业人士合作，定制具体的投资计划，确保符合所有监管要求。
3. 投资决策的尽职调查 – 所有投资都存在风险，无论是在增长型类别还是平衡型类别。对潜在项目进行深入的尽职调查，并寻求专业建议，可以帮助降低风险并提高投资的潜在回报。重要的是要将这一过程视为投资机会，而不仅仅是获得签证的途径。

写在最后

 尽管这些变化可能让人觉得将资金带入新西兰即可轻松获得签证，但实际操作仍然复杂。关键在于确保投资符合INZ和NZTE设定的严格标准。

投资者必须谨慎安排资金，使其符合这些要求，以确保AIP计划的资格。从一开始就寻求专家指导至关重要，以便顺利应对复杂流程，并做出明智的投资决策。

欢迎垂询 竭诚服务

我们的团队结合了移民、商业和房地产领域多年的专业知识与经验，能为您提供量身定制的全方位咨询服务。无论您需要移民程序指导、投资结构建议，还是房地产法规支持，我们都可以提供帮助。

欢迎随时联系我们。我们竭诚为您服务，让您的投资与移民旅程更加顺畅。

请注意，本文章不能替代法律意见，您应咨询律师以了解您的具体情况。如有任何问题，欢迎通过电子邮件 immigration@parryfield.com 或电话 03 348 8480 联系我们。

In December 2024, the New Zealand Government announced significant reforms to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) to create a more flexible and responsive immigration system. These changes aim to address labour shortages while ensuring fair treatment for both employers and migrant workers.

Starting from 10 March 2025, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) will implement several key updates affecting wage requirements, work experience criteria, visa durations, and hiring processes. Below is a detailed breakdown of how these changes will affect a business/employers and migrant workers.

 

Impact on Businesses/Employers

1. Removal of the Median Wage Requirement

• From 10 March 2025, employers will no longer be required to pay the median wage for AEWV and SPWV roles. Instead, they must pay at least the minimum wage (NZD $23.15 per hour, increasing to NZD $23.50 per hour on 1 April 2025) and ensure that migrant workers receive the market rate aligned with their roles and work location.
• The removal of Sector Agreements means that jobs previously subject to wage exemptions or employment caps will now be treated like any other role of the same skill level.

2. Simplified Hiring Process with MSD

The requirement for employers to engage with the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) will be declaration-based instead of requiring an Engagement Check. Employers must advertise roles in skill levels 4 and 5 and interview any suitable New Zealand candidates, but they will only need to keep records as evidence—formal approval from MSD will no longer be required.

• If employers apply for a job check on or after 10 March 2025, they will not need an MSD Engagement Check, even if they engaged with MSD before.
• If a job check application is in progress on 10 March 2025, it will be assessed under the new rules if it benefits the employer.

3. Recognition of Higher ANZSCO Skill Levels

The following occupations will be recognised as ANZSCO skill level 3, including:

• Cook (351411)
• Pet groomer (361113)
• Kennel hand (361115)
• Nanny (421113)
• Fitness instructor (452111)
• Scaffolder (821712)
• Slaughterer (831212)

If the employer specifies that the job needs either 3 years of work experience or a level 4 qualification, the following occupations will be recognised as ANZSCO skill level 3:

• Agricultural and horticultural mobile plant operator (721111)
• Excavator operator (721214)
• Forklift driver (721311)
• Mobile plant operators not elsewhere classified (721999)

This change means that businesses hiring for these roles will face fewer advertising and labour market test requirements.

 

Impact on Employees and Migrant Workers

1. Lower Work Experience Requirement

From 10 March 2025, the required work experience for AEWV applicants will reduce from 3 years to 2 years, making it easier for skilled workers to qualify.

2. Increased Visa Duration for Lower-Skilled Jobs

AEWV holders in ANZSCO skill levels 4 and 5 will be able to stay in New Zealand for up to 3 years, aligning with the maximum continuous stay allowance.

 

Impact on Migrant Workers

1. English Language Exemptions for Some Roles

Jobs upgraded from ANZSCO skill level 4 to skill level 3 will no longer require English language testing.

2. Interim Visa Work Rights Expansion (April 2025)

Migrant workers applying for an AEWV while holding a work visa or a student visa with work rights will now receive interim work rights. Time spent on an interim visa will count towards total AEWV stay duration and work experience for residence pathways.

3. Higher Income Threshold for Supporting Dependent Children

The income threshold for AEWV holders to sponsor dependent children will increase from NZD $43,322.76 to NZD $55,844 per year (equivalent to 80% of the median wage). However, children already in New Zealand on a dependent visa will not be affected by this change.

4. Median Wage Increase for Partner Sponsorship (February 28, 2025)

• AEWV holders who wish to support a partner’s visa must meet a new wage threshold of NZD $26.85 per hour.
• The income threshold for sponsoring parents under the Parent Category will also be updated to NZD $33.56 per hour.

 

Message to Applicants

For employers, these updates simplify the hiring process and offer more flexibility in recruitment. However, employers must still ensure the market rate aligns with the role and location. Also, it is important to keep records of engagement with MSD in case INZ conducts a post-accreditation check.

For migrant workers, these changes make it easier to work in New Zealand, but they should plan ahead before reaching the maximum continuous stay period (either 5 or 3 years).

---

If you need further details on how these changes affect you, your family, or your business, please reach out to our team—we are here to help.

Please note that this article not a substitute for legal advice and you should contact your lawyer about your specific situation. Please feel free to contact us by email immigration@parryfield.com or by phone 03 348 8480.

New Zealand (NZ) has become a thriving hub for entrepreneurs, offering a supportive environment and an attractive destination with its natural beauty, high living standards, and welcoming approach to immigrants. Entrepreneurs can establish themselves in NZ through the Entrepreneur Work Visa, leading to the Entrepreneur Resident Visa, offering a pathway to contribute to the economy and gain residency.

Entrepreneur Work Visa (EWV)

The EWV is the starting point for business owners or managers who wish to set up or buy a business in NZ. This visa allows successful applicants to buy or establish a business, offering a potential pathway to residency. The visa is valid for up to three years and is divided into two stages: a 12-month Start-up stage and a 24-month Balance stage.

• Initial Entry (Start-up Stage): The first 12 months are designed to allow the applicant time to establish their business in NZ. During this period, the visa holder is expected to take tangible steps such as registering the company, securing premises, and hiring employees.
• Balance Stage: After completing the Start-up Stage, the visa holder may continue operating their business for an additional 24 months. To progress to this stage, applicants must show sufficient progress in establishing their business and demonstrate its viability.
• Pathway to Residency: The EWV is often seen as a stepping stone to the Entrepreneur Resident Visa, which offers residency for those who have successfully established a business.

Basic Requirements for EWV

To be eligible for an EWV, applicants must meet several key requirements:

• Minimum Capital Investment: Applicants must have a minimum capital investment of NZD $100,000 in their business. However, in exceptional cases, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) may waive this requirement for businesses that offer unique benefits to the country.
• Business Plan: A detailed business plan is a crucial part of the application process. This plan, dated within three months of the application, should outline the nature of the business, its structure, market opportunities, and expected financial outcomes. It must also show how the business will benefit NZ through job creation, innovation, or export opportunities.
• Business Experience: Applicants must demonstrate relevant business experience or a proven track record in a related field, such as prior business ownership, management, or industry-specific expertise.
• Health, Character, and Language Requirements: All applicants must meet INZ’s health and character requirements. Also, English proficiency is required, usually demonstrated by a score of at least 4 in the IELTS General or Academic module.
• Points System: Like many NZ visa categories, the EWV operates on a points-based system. Applicants need a minimum of 120 points, with points awarded based on factors such as investment amount, job creation, business location (bonus points for businesses outside Auckland), and the applicant’s experience.

Application Process

The EWV application involves several steps:

• Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Applicants begin by submitting an EOI, outlining their business proposal and points calculation.
• EOI Assessment: If the EOI meets the 120-point threshold, it will undergo further assessment, and the applicant may be invited to submit a full visa application.
• Submit Full Application: The full application includes detailed supporting documents such as the business plan, financial records, proof of investment funds, and evidence of business experience. INZ will also assess the business’s potential contribution to NZ’s economy.
• Approval: If approved, the applicant receives the EWV, enabling them to enter NZ and start their business.

Entrepreneur Resident Visa (ERV)

After establishing and running a successful business under the EWV, visa holders may become eligible for the ERV, which grants residency to individuals who have proven their ability to contribute to NZ’s economy.

Requirements:

• Business Success: Applicants must have successfully run a business in NZ for at least two years under the EWV. A fast-track option allows those who demonstrate exceptional business success to apply after just six months if they have invested at least NZD $500,000 and created at least three full-time jobs for NZ citizens or residents.
• Character, Health, and Language: Applicants must meet the residency class requirements for character, health, and English proficiency.

Temporary visa holders who have conditions which allow for self-employment may not be aware that they also may be eligible for residency under the ERV category.  If you have been holding a visa other than an EWV which allow self-employment (for example, an open partner work visa), you can apply for an ERV provided that you can demonstrate you meet the requirements for both an EWV and ERV.

 Application Process

• Submit Residency Application: Applicants must provide evidence of having successfully operated their business for the required period, including financial statements, tax records, employment contracts, and proof of meeting job creation or investment criteria.
• INZ Assessment: INZ will evaluate the business’s viability and its contribution to the economy. If approved, the applicant and their family are granted permanent residency.

Benefits of the Entrepreneur Visas

Among the many advantages of this visa category, we highlight the key benefits that attract applicants and their families seeking both business success and a high quality of life in New Zealand:

• Pathway to Residency: These visas offer a structured route to permanent residency, enabling entrepreneurs and their families to settle in NZ.
• Supportive Business Environment: NZ’s ease of doing business, transparent regulations, and dynamic economy foster innovation and entrepreneurship.
• Quality of Life: NZ offers stunning natural landscapes, safe cities, excellent healthcare, and high-quality education, making it an appealing destination for relocation.
• Access to Global Markets: Located in the Asia-Pacific region, NZ provides easy access to major markets such as Australia, China, and Southeast Asia.

Common Pitfalls of the Entrepreneur Visas

We also list common pitfalls that can undermine an otherwise strong application, potentially leading to delays, rejections, or difficulties during the visa process:

• Unrealistic or Poorly Developed Business Plan: Business plans that lack detail, market research, or clear and realistic financial projections may lead to rejection.
• Insufficient Capital Investment: Failure to meet the minimum investment requirement of NZD $100,000 can result in an unsuccessful application.
• Inadequate Business Experience: Lack of relevant business experience or industry knowledge can weaken INZ’s confidence in your ability to run a successful business.

Message to Applicants

For entrepreneurs looking to expand their horizons and build a life in one of the world’s most picturesque and business-friendly countries, the entrepreneur visas are ideal pathways. However, the decline rate is relatively high – meeting the 120-point threshold may, on the face of it, seem relatively easy, but it is a complex application requiring sound legal advice. It is also important to have an experienced team who can advise whether it is the right pathway for you (as there may be alternative easier pathways to residence you have not considered).

With the right business plan, investment, and commitment, entrepreneurs can turn their vision into reality while contributing to NZ’s growing economy. Our team is happy to assist you throughout this journey.

---

Please note that this article not a substitute for legal advice and you should contact your lawyer about your specific situation. Please contact us by email immigration@parryfield.com or by phone 03 348 8480, if you have any questions.

请注意，本文不构成法律建议，您应就您的具体情况联系您的律师。如有任何疑问，请通过邮箱 immigration@parryfield.com 或电话 03 348 8480 联系我们。

On 21 June 2023, the Government announced a simplified points system for the Skilled Migrant Category (“SMC”) as part of the immigration rebalance.

In summary, what is changing?

1) The points system is changing. You will need 6 points to apply.

2) To apply, you must have skilled job or job offer with an accredited employer in New Zealand to apply. There was no such requirement under the old system.

3) There will be no cap under the new SMC system – see below.

4) A Skilled Migrant Category Interim Visa will be introduced – see below.

What is a “skilled” job or job offer?

 For your job or job offer to be considered skilled, you must be suitably qualified and your job or job offer must:

• Be with an accredited employer in New Zealand;
• Guarantee at least 30 hours per week;
• Pay:
  • At or above the median wage (currently $29.66 an hour) where it is an ANZSCO Level 1 to 3 occupation; or
  • 1.5 times the median wage (currently $44.49 an hour) where it is an ANZSCO Level 4 to 5 occupation;
• Be a permanent contract or fixed-term for at least 12 months.

How does the new point system work?

 You will need 6 points to apply. You can claim 6 points from:

• One of the following skill categories:
  • Your New Zealand occupational registration;
  • Your qualification;
  • Your income from your job or job offer (earning at least 1.5 times the median wage in New Zealand);

(“skill points”)

• And your skilled work experience in New Zealand.

(“skilled work in New Zealand points”)

See Immigration New Zealand’s summary below.

How many New Zealand occupational registration points can I claim?

 You can claim between three to six New Zealand occupational registration points.

For occupational registrations which require more training, you can claim more points. For example:

• A Registered Nurse can claim 3 points;
• A Midwife can claim 4 points;
• A Dentist can claim 5 points; and
• A Medical Practitioner can claim 6 points.

How many qualification points can I claim?

 You can claim between three to six qualification points as per the following:

Points	Qualification
6	Level 10 Doctoral Degree
5	Level 9 Master’s Degree
4	Level 8 Bachelor Honours Degree Level 8 Postgraduate Diploma
3	Level 8 Postgraduate Certificate Level 7 Bachelor’s Degree

 Your qualification must be:

• A New Zealand qualification; or
• An overseas qualification on the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment; or
• An overseas qualification which has been evaluated by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority.

How many income points can I claim?

 You can claim three, four or six income points as per the following:

Points	Income
6	3 x the median wage (currently $88.98 an hour) or more
4	2 x the median wage (currently $59.32 an hour) or more
3	1.5 x the median wage (currently $44.49 an hour) or more

To claim income points your job or job offer must:

• Be with an accredited employer in New Zealand;
• Guarantee at least 30 hours per week; and
• Be a permanent contract or fixed-term for at least 12 months.

How many skilled work in New Zealand points can I claim?

To claim skilled work in New Zealand points, the skilled work experience must:

• Have been in New Zealand;
• Have been at least 30 guaranteed hours per week;
• Have paid:
  • At or above the median wage where it is an ANZSCO Level 1 to 3 occupation; or
  • 1.5 times the median wage where it is an ANZSCO Level 4 to 5 occupation.

You can claim 1 point per year, up to a maximum of 3 points.

Has there been any change to English language requirements?

 No. These requirements have not changed. See https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/preparing-a-visa-application/english-language/acceptable-english-language-test-results/english-language-test-results-for-residence-visas.

Has there been any change to age requirements?

No. As with the old system, you must be 55 years and under to apply.

What about health and character requirements? Will they be changing?

No. They will stay the same.

How many visas are there under the new SMC system?

There is no cap under the new SMC system. As long as you meet the criteria, your visa application will be approved.

What long will it take Immigration New Zealand to process visa applications under the new SMC system?

Immigration will New Zealand aim to process straightforward and complete applications within 6 to 8 weeks. However, where Immigration New Zealand ask other organisations for information (third party checks), it will take more time. Immigration New Zealand cannot control how long third party checks take.

What if my temporary visa expires while my SMC application is in progress?

An interim visa (the Migrant Category Interim Visa) will be introduced for people applying under the new SMC system.

Your Skilled Migrant Category Interim Visa will be granted automatically and will come into effect the day after your current visa expires.

Your Skilled Migrant Category Interim Visa conditions will be the same as conditions as you currently hold.

Your Skilled Migrant Category Interim Visa will expire the soonest of:

• 24 months after it comes into effect;
• The date your Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa application is approved; or
• Where the visa application is declined or withdrawn, 2 months after the decision is made.

When are these changes effective from?

The changes will be effective from 9 October 2023.

However, you may still apply under the old SMC system where:

• You submitted an Expression of Interest before 11:59pm on 15 August 2023; and
• You have been invited to apply.

Why the changes?

The Government is introducing these changes to:

• Not give skilled migrants false hope about gaining residence in New Zealand by providing clarity;
• Process applications faster;
• Reduce New Zealand’s reliance on lower-skilled migrant workers and encourage employers to offer competitive wages; and
• Retain skilled migrants to fill medium-to-long-term skills needs that would take time to fill by workers already in New Zealand.

Please note that this article not a substitute for legal advice and you should contact your lawyer about your specific situation. Please contact us by email immigration@parryfield.com or by phone 03 348 8480, if you have any questions.