PROTECTION VERSUS GROWTH
The Prime Minister described the change as one that“ navigates a path between those who do not want foreign ownership opened up, and the desire to attract high-networth investors by deepening their connection to our country to help grow the economy”.
There have been more than 300 applications for the Active Investor Plus visa since it was re-launched on 1 April. If all these applications were approved and proceed, it would mean a potential total minimum investment of $ 1.8 billion in the New Zealand economy.
Individuals who received residence visas under the previous Investor 1 and 2 visa categories will also be eligible for this new housing provision.
Two investment categories
• Growth: Higher-risk investment, including direct investments in New Zealand businesses, with a minimum of $ 5 million for at least three years.
• Balanced: Mixed investments, including lower-risk options, with a minimum of $ 10 million over five years.
For homeowners, it suggests that while the changes will only affect a small segment of the market, renewed investor participation could add depth and confidence to premium property values, with potential firming effects for the broader market in the months ahead.
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