New Zealand has announced major changes to its business immigration programs, officially closing the Entrepreneur Work Visa and introducing a Business Investor Visa aimed at experienced investors.
The government said the update is intended to attract individuals who can purchase or expand existing businesses while contributing to job creation and economic growth.
End of the Entrepreneur Work Visa
The Entrepreneur Work Visa, which previously allowed applicants to establish new businesses in New Zealand, has been permanently closed to new applications. Immigration New Zealand revealed that the program fell short of expectations, with few applications submitted and a high rate of rejections.
Launch of the Business Investor Visa
Set to open in November 2025, the Business Investor Work Visa offers two main investment options:
Applicants can either buy a business outright or acquire at least 25% ownership, provided they meet the minimum investment threshold. Both options can eventually lead to the Business Investor Resident Visa, granting permanent residency in New Zealand.
What Happens to Current Applicants?
Applications for the Entrepreneur Work Visa that have already been submitted will still be processed under the previous rules. However, Immigration New Zealand clarified that anyone withdrawing an application will not receive a refund of fees or levies.
Current Entrepreneur Work Visa holders remain eligible for the Entrepreneur Resident Visa and can also apply for visa renewals if more time is needed to work toward residency.
Why the Change?
Unlike the Entrepreneur Work Visa, which focused on starting new businesses, the new visa emphasizes investment in existing ones. Officials highlighted that the streamlined system will provide faster decisions, clearer rules, and a stronger impact on economic growth through business expansion and job creation.
Immigration Minister Erica Stanford explained the strategy:
“We want to bring overseas investment that maintains and creates jobs, grows incomes, and revitalizes businesses across New Zealand.”
How It Fits With Other Investor Pathways
The Business Investor Visa complements the Active Investor Plus Visa, which was updated in April 2025 to encourage high-value capital injections into local companies. Together, the visas now offer multiple pathways:
Authorities also hinted at the possibility of a future visa designed specifically for startup founders with innovative ideas, though details are still being developed.
Immigration New Zealand confirmed that more information including full eligibility criteria, comparisons with the Active Investor Plus Visa, and application guidance will be released in October 2025, ahead of the November launch.
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