New Zealand records 65 “Golden Visa” applications in 6 weeks after rule changes

New Zealand has recorded a sharp rise in applications for its Golden Visa programme after new rules were introduced to simplify the process. The country’s immigration department revealed that 65 applications were received between April 1 and mid-May 2025, marking a notable shift in demand.

The two new visa categories, Growth and Balanced, were introduced to make the scheme more accessible. Immigration Minister Erica Stanford noted that there has been significant interest, particularly from the United States. “I’m expecting that in the first month we’ll get a lot of applications. We’re seeing a huge amount of interest from the US. And we’re also seeing a lot of interest out of Germany and the rest of Europe,” she said.

Read also: New Zealand welcomes overseas nurses as government works to retain talent

The new changes to the Active Investor Plus Visa came into effect on April 1, 2025. These changes are part of a wider effort by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s government to encourage foreign investment and support economic growth. Under the revised programme, the government removed the English-language requirement, reduced the required time investors must spend in the country, lowered the minimum investment threshold, and introduced simpler investment categories.

Statistics from the immigration department show that of the 65 applications received, 55 were from US nationals. Applications from Hong Kong accounted for 15 per cent, while China contributed 12 per cent. Industry experts suggest that these figures reflect broader global trends.

Read also: New Zealand cracks down on work visas with 5 key changes, effective immediately

Stuart Nash, a former immigration minister and co-founder of the relocation consultancy Nash Kelly Global, pointed to political developments in the United States as a factor driving interest. He told the Financial Times that “the reelection of US President Donald Trump has led many Americans to seek residency in other countries.”

Marcus Beveridge, Managing Director at Queen City Law in Auckland, also reported rising demand. He said the firm is seeing growing interest from wealthy individuals in China, Japan, Indonesia, and the United States.

Read also: New Zealand targets more talents with new visa subcategory for seasonal work

The government hopes that the simplified process will attract long-term investors to New Zealand. By easing the requirements and cutting bureaucratic steps, officials aim to position the country as a preferred destination for individuals seeking security, residency options, and stable investment opportunities.

Since the policy shift, the visa programme has begun drawing wider global attention. Officials believe the changes may lead to sustained growth in applications and increased capital inflow over the coming months.