New Zealand has a liberal investment policy that permits a broad range of financial investments, provided they generate commercial returns. Residential development is permitted to some extent, and investors in the "growth investments" category under the investor 2 visa program can earn extra points. Many applicants prefer to start with secure investments until they become acquainted with New Zealand's economy and market, after which they may choose to diversify their investments.

An acceptable investment under New Zealand Immigration Instructions must:

  • be capable of a commercial return under normal circumstances.
  • not be for the personal use of the applicant(s).
  • be invested in New Zealand in New Zealand currency.
  • be invested in lawful enterprises or managed funds that comply with all relevant laws in force in New Zealand.
  • have the potential to contribute to New Zealand's economy.
  • be invested in either one or more of the following:
    • bonds issued by the New Zealand government or local authorities.
    • bonds issued by New Zealand firms traded on the New Zealand Debt Securities Market (NZDX).
    • bonds issued by New Zealand firms with at least a BBB- or equivalent rating from internationally recognized credit rating agencies (for example, Standard and Poor's).
    • equity in New Zealand firms (public or private, including managed funds and venture capital funds).
    • bonds issued by New Zealand registered banks.
    • equities in New Zealand registered banks.
    • residential property development(s) or commercial property.
    • bonds in finance companies.
    • eligible New Zealand venture capital funds.
    • philanthropic investment.
    • 'angel funds or networks' investments.

Residential Property Investment:

  • The residential property must be in the form of new developments on either new or existing sites.
  • The residential property(ies) cannot include renovation or extension to existing developments.
  • The new developments must have been approved and gained any required consents by any relevant regulatory authorities (including local authorities).
  • The purpose of the residential property investments must be to make a commercial return on the open market.
  • Neither the family, relatives, nor anyone associated with the principal investor may reside in the development.
  • The costs associated with obtaining any regulatory approval (including any resource or building consents) are not part of the principal applicant's acceptable investments.

Commercial Property Investment:

  • The property(ies) is not residential or for domestic use.
  • The property(ies) is used for business purposes, in that it is:
  • capable of a commercial return.
  • not used for land banking.
  • The purpose of the commercial property investments must be to make a commercial return on the open market.
  • Neither the family, relatives, nor anyone associated with the main applicant may reside in the development.
  • If a new development, the property(ies) must have been approved and gained any required consents by any relevant regulatory authorities (including local authorities).

Growth-oriented investments

Investors who include a portion of growth-oriented investments, comprising at least NZ$750,000, in their New Zealand investment portfolio are entitled to the benefits outlined in the table.

According to the New Zealand Immigration Instructions, a growth investment is defined as an investment that excludes bonds (including convertible notes) and philanthropic investments.