From 1 June 2026, migrant investors applying under New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus (AIP) Visa will have broader options to support philanthropic causes. The Government has updated the immigration instructions to allow:
- Growth Category applicants to invest up to 20 percent of their total investment in philanthropy. For a minimum NZD $5 million investment, this means up to NZD $1 million may be donated.
- Balanced Category applicants, with a minimum NZD $10 million investment, can continue to allocate any portion to eligible philanthropy.
Changes have also been made in that there are new requirements for philanthropic investments which apply to both the Growth and Balanced categories.
Which charities can receive philanthropic investment?
The charity must:
- be a New Zealand registered charity;
- have at least five years of compliant annual returns for the five years immediately before the investor’s application;
- have current Inland Revenue donee status;
- report to Charities Services under Tier 1, Tier 2 or Tier 3; and
- use the donated funds exclusively for domestic causes within New Zealand, which must be evidenced by a written agreement between the principal applicant and the receiving charity.
Department of Conservation projects
In addition to registered charities, philanthropic investment may support specified Department of Conservation (DOC) initiatives, providing a pathway for conservation and environmental contributions.
Conflicts of interest and existing links
Applicants and certain family members must disclose pre-existing affiliations with recipient organisations, including membership, trusteeship, or close family connections. Immigration New Zealand may decline applications if donations result in direct private benefits, financial or in-kind, to the applicant or family.
What this means for charities
These changes create new funding opportunities, but only compliant charities qualify. Charities should ensure they maintain compliant returns, donee status, Tier reporting, and processes to manage conflicts of interest. Preparing template donation agreements or confirmation letters is advised to confirm funds are used domestically.
What this means for migrant investors
The changes offer flexibility to include charitable and conservation contributions in investment strategy. Donations must comply with the new requirements to count toward the investment and visa eligibility. Investors should verify recipient eligibility and assess potential benefits to themselves or family members before donating.
If you are considering this visa and want to understand how philanthropic giving might fit into your investment structure, we would be happy to help you work through the detail. You can reach out to our experienced team here.
This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The information provided may not be applicable to your specific circumstances. You should seek independent advice from a qualified New Zealand lawyer before making any investment or immigration decisions.
29 May, 2026
