The government of New Zealand has officially scrapped its Entrepreneur Work Visa programme, replacing it with revamped immigration options aimed at attracting high-value investors and business innovators. This decision, which came into effect recently, marks a major shift in the country’s immigration and economic development strategy, as it seeks to prioritise quality investments over small-scale business operations with minimal long-term impact.
According to the country’s Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), the Entrepreneur Work Visa, which was originally designed to encourage foreign entrepreneurs to establish or buy businesses in New Zealand, failed to deliver the intended economic benefits. Official data shows that over the years, a significant portion of visa recipients either failed to launch viable businesses or did not generate meaningful employment or innovation within the local economy. The government noted that the programme had low success rates, with many applicants not meeting the performance benchmarks required to transition to permanent residency.
In response to these concerns, New Zealand authorities have unveiled new investor-focused immigration categories under a broader plan to align immigration with economic goals. The newly introduced Active Investor Plus visa, for instance, now serves as the primary route for foreign individuals seeking to contribute to New Zealand’s economy. This visa requires applicants to commit substantial capital into New Zealand-based businesses or approved investment vehicles, shifting the focus away from passive investment in government bonds or real estate.
Under the Active Investor Plus visa, applicants must invest between NZD 5 million to NZD 15 million, depending on the type of investment. However, lower thresholds apply to investments deemed to bring higher economic value, such as direct investments into local start-ups or innovative businesses. The government believes this new structure will encourage more impactful contributions to key sectors like technology, sustainability, and advanced manufacturing.
Speaking on the policy changes, Immigration Minister Erica Stanford emphasised that New Zealand is looking to attract “genuine, growth-oriented investors” who can help drive innovation, create jobs, and support long-term economic resilience. She stated that the closure of the old visa pathway sends a clear message that the country is moving towards smarter immigration policies, designed to complement national development goals rather than simply increasing migrant numbers.
The new investor pathway also incorporates a more rigorous vetting process, including background checks, proof of business experience, and commitment to active participation in the New Zealand economy. This is intended to ensure that only credible investors who are aligned with the country’s development objectives are admitted.
For Nigerians and other international businesspersons previously eyeing the Entrepreneur Work Visa, this change signals a shift in strategy and the need for greater financial preparedness and long-term planning. While opportunities for relocation and business in New Zealand still exist, the emphasis is now clearly on investment quality, not just business quantity.
Analysts say the move is in line with a growing trend among advanced economies to reshape immigration frameworks to prioritise economic benefit and national interest. With global competition for skilled migrants and productive investment increasing, New Zealand’s new approach could make it more competitive, provided it strikes the right balance between openness and regulation.
The government has pledged to monitor the performance of the new visa programme closely, with ongoing adjustments expected based on economic needs and investor feedback. Meanwhile, prospective investors are advised to consult with licensed immigration advisors or legal experts before making any financial commitments.
