Immigration to New Zealand:

Business Immigration Policy:

This small and exclusive circle can expect extraordinary service and attention from our side and can profit from our extensive contacts to the New Zealand business world. Legal advice can also be provided.

In April 1999 the government decided to introduce brand new and more attractive regulations for the business investor category aiming at a larger number of investors.

There are four different categories in this field:

1. Investor Category (Residence Visa/Permit)
This category is based on a point/numerous system; points can be scored for age
(max. age: 84 years), experience as a general manager and/or company owner (min. 2 years) as well as for transferable investment capital (min. NZ$ 1 million). Furthermore the applicant has to prove his English knowledge (IELTS-Test).

2. Long-term Business Visa (Temporary Entry)
In general this is a special type of work visa/permit, considered as a first step to fulfill the conditions of the entrepreneur category. It is also an interesting category for people aiming to establish a business in New Zealand in the longer term without themselves living here permanently. The conditions are for example the presentation of a business plan, sufficient financial assets, proof of experience as a general manager and/or company owner. Proof of English is obligatory.

3. Entrepreneur Category (Residence Visa/Permit)
An application under this category can only succeed if evidence can be provided that a business has been established successfully (and operating for a duration of 24 months) with the aim to profit New Zealand's economy. This can be for example the introduction of new products or the establishment of new export markets. The applicant can also buy shares of a company (min. 25%) and can employ himself in this company. Proof of English is obligatory.

4. Employees of Relocating Business Category (Residence Visa/Permit)
This category applies to management personnel who cannot apply for permanent residence under any other category and have to supervise or participate in the foundation and establishment of a company in New Zealand. Evidence has to be provided regarding the purpose of relocating the business to New Zealand and also the reason why only supervisory staff from abroad can be employed.

First priority will be given to all applications under these categories by the newly established department "Business Immigration Specialists" of the NZIS.