New Zealand BIV | Latest Application Requirements & Key Dates
- 炒年糕的貓貓
- Oct 27
- 3 min read
On October 20, 2025, Immigration New Zealand officially released the implementation details of the Business Investor Work Visa (BIV). Applications will open on November 24, and successful applicants will receive a 4-year visa. This new scheme introduces a series of eligibility requirements and compliance obligations.
Eligibility Requirements for BIV Visa Applicants
Applicant Criteria:
Age: 55 or below
English Proficiency: IELTS 5.0 or equivalent
Living Funds: At least NZD 500,000 in savings for living expenses of the applicant and family
Business Experience: Minimum of 3 years, meeting one of the following:
Self-employed experience: Operated a business with at least 5 full-time employees, or achieved annual revenue of at least NZD 1 million.
Senior management experience: Directly managed at least 5 full-time employees in a company with annual turnover of NZD 5 million or more.
Residence Requirement: Must reside in New Zealand for at least 184 days per year.
Other Requirements: Must pass health and character assessments.
BIV Investment Pathways:
Additional Requirements:
The target business must have operated legally in New Zealand for at least 5 years.
The business must employ at least 5 full-time employees.
Applicants must not have previously held or been approved for the Business Investor Work Visa, Business Investor Resident Visa, Entrepreneur Work Visa, or Entrepreneur Resident Visa within the past 10 years.
Restricted Industries:Convenience stores, discount shops, fast-food outlets, franchise chains, gambling, tobacco and vaping product manufacturing, adult entertainment, immigration consultancy, home-based businesses, and drop-shipping operations.
Key Timelines and Renewal Mechanism
The BIV Visa consists of two phases:
Business Establishment Phase (First 12 months): For acquiring or launching the business.
Business Operation Phase (Following 3 years): For ongoing management to meet residency conversion requirements.
Important Deadlines:
Within 9 months of approval, the applicant must submit proof that the business has been purchased and is operational.
Failure to submit proof on time will result in automatic visa expiry after the 12-month establishment phase.
Renewal Option:
Applicants may apply for a one-time extension of up to 2 years, providing additional flexibility for business development.
Proof of Lawful Source of Funds
Applicants must demonstrate that both investment and living funds are lawfully obtained. Requirements include:
Ownership: Funds must belong to the applicant, spouse, or dependent children.
Asset Documentation: Bank statements, property titles, valuation reports, stock certificates, or company shareholding records.
Proof of Source: Tax returns, payslips, audited financial statements, dividend records, property/securities transaction records, or legal documents for gifts/inheritance.
No Borrowed Funds: Investments must not be financed by loans or secured assets (unless otherwise approved).
Funds in New Zealand: If funds are already in NZ, applicants must prove they were legally earned or transferred through compliant channels.
Required Documents for BIV Visa Application
Applicants must submit a complete and compliant set of documents, including:
Comprehensive Business Plan (including due diligence findings)
Valuation and Financial Due Diligence Report from a New Zealand-registered accountant
Legal Due Diligence Report from a New Zealand-registered lawyer
Confirmation Letter detailing the legal and financial risks of the target business
Supporting Documents for funds, experience, and business qualifications
Conclusion
The BIV Visa framework is relatively complex and requires careful preparation. Applicants are advised to:
Organize all required documentation in advance
Select an eligible and compliant investment target
Ensure full authenticity and legality of all submissions
Proper preparation and professional guidance will significantly improve the success rate of the BIV Visa application and facilitate a smooth transition to residency in New Zealand. If you’re planning to move to New Zealand, contact Oceanus Strategic. Stay tuned for more updates—don’t miss out on future insights!
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