New Zealand relaxed its "active investor plus" golden visa rules in April, allowing foreigners to apply for permanent residency by investing millions in the economy. Applicants must invest at least 5 million New Zealand dollars over three years or 10 million over five years. Since April 1, authorities received 267 applications as of August 8, up from 115 between September 2022 and March 31, 2025, with 44% of the recent applications from Americans. Relocation concierge firms report demand from ultra high-net-worth individuals seeking tax and safe havens. Concierge services guide applications and help clients with real estate, networks, doctors, and schools.
In April, New Zealand relaxed the rules around its golden visa - formally known as the "active investor plus" visa - which allows foreigners to gain permanent residency status by investing in the country's economy. It still, however, requires a lot of cash: Applicants must invest at least 5 million New Zealand dollars, about $3 million, over three years or $10 million New Zealand dollars over five years, depending on the type of investment.
Since the April 1 rule changes, New Zealand has received 267 golden visa applications as of August 8, compared to 115 between September 2022 and March 31, 2025, according to New Zealand's immigration site. Of the new applications, 44% are from Americans. "The vast majority of ultra high net worth individuals globally have always sought a tax haven," Stuart Nash, a former member of parliament and cabinet minister, who cofounded relocation concierge Nash Kelly Global, told Business Insider. Now, "more are seeking a safe haven."
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