New Zealand’s government is planning to announce changes to its Active Investor Plus Visa Program in the coming weeks. This move comes after a significant drop in applications, with the program’s annual foreign investment dwindling from NZ$1 billion to NZ$176 million, an 82.4% decline.
The government aims to attract more investor migrants, not just for their capital but also for their valuable contributions, such as networks, expertise, experience, and ideas. To achieve this, the government plans to introduce “other investment options” and remove English as a requirement.
Some potential changes include:
– Relaxed English Language Requirements: English will no longer be a necessary language skill for applicants.
– New Investment Options: The government will introduce alternative investment options for applicants.
– Simplified Application Process: Reforms are underway to speed up overseas investment applications.
These changes are expected to revitalize New Zealand’s investor immigration pathway, contrasting with Australia’s recent policy direction, which closed its Business Innovation and Investment Program to new applications in January 2024.
