A Guide To New Zealand’s Residence By Investment Scheme

Anyone who longs for a quiet, friendly, and pleasant life should know that New Zealand is an option worth considering. Lately, it has witnessed increased immigration for reasons pretty understandable. These reasons are also among the influential factors for applying for its Residence by Investment Scheme.

We are talking about a country that performs exemplarily in terms of quality of life, economic freedom, and government transparency. Once a protectionist economy, it has now become one of the most prominent and successful examples of a liberalized free-trade economy. Plus, its participation in a string of international organizations, such as the United Nations and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, indicates its profound impact on global political order.

New Zealand’s Investor Business Migration Visas are opportunities for potential investors to gain residence in consideration of certain investments in the domestic economy. How to go about it? Well, you can find brief details on the scheme and what it entails. 

There are two categories under the scheme

There are two routes provided under the scheme. The first route is called Investor Visa. To apply for the Investor Visa, you must invest a minimum of NZ$ 3 million for four years. You can either invest for 146 days in every last three years over four years or 438 days over the four years.

On the other side, there is what is termed the Investor Plus Visa. The applicant is required to invest a minimum of NZ$ 10 million for three years. The investment should be made for 44 days in each of the last two years over three years or 88 days over three years. 

Other requirements you must fulfill

Depending on the category you apply for, there may be varying requirements. Generally, you are required to satisfy certain common criteria. These criteria include a minimum of three years of experience in business, English language proficiency, family members (if added to the application) must have English language proficiency and maximum age of 65 years. Proofs regarding the nature and value of the investment are also required to be furnished. 

Where can you invest your funds?

The scheme provides a list of acceptable investments. The applicant, applying for either of the visas, can invest in public or private NZ firms directly or through managed funds; bonds issued by the government, local authorities, approved banks, or finance firms and companies; or donate 15 percent of the investment for altruistic causes. In addition, the applicant must show that the investments made can potentially add value to the country’s economy. If and when your application gets approved, you are required to transfer the investment amount within a year. Following the transfer, you must furnish the requisite proof to the authorities. In case you need more time, you should apply for an extension citing the reasons. 

How to apply for permanent residency

It should be noted that the investor visa scheme is not an automatic route to permanent residence or citizenship. You are initially extended a temporary residence permit within whose duration you must make your investments. Following the said period, you are eligible to apply for a permanent resident permit. For the same, you will need to submit certain documents, including a police certificate, proof of identity, and the time spent in the country. Once you get your permanent residence permit, you will have to wait another five years to apply for citizenship. 

Family members can be added

You are allowed to add your family members provided certain conditions are met. Aside from your partner, you can add your parents and children; the parent(s) should make an application for the Parent Retirement Program. Your children falling between the age of 21 and 24 must be completely or significantly dependent on your financial support regardless of whether they live with you or their partner. There may be additional conditions stipulated depending on the case at hand. However, once your family members have been successfully added to the application, they will be entitled to enjoy the same benefits as you do under the scheme.

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