New Zealand runs an investment residence route called the Active Investor Plus visa. Chinese nationals can apply on the same basis as other foreign investors. This page sets out the current position so you can plan.
Information, not advice. Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. Always confirm the present rules with the official program authority and a licensed professional before you act.
Chinese nationals are eligible. There is no reported nationality bar, and the route is open to foreign investors who make a qualifying investment and meet the health, character and funds conditions.
Applicants must show the lawful source of their funds, meet character and health requirements and keep the investment in acceptable assets for the required period. Confirm the live eligibility rules with Immigration New Zealand.
The visa has two categories. The Growth category asks for a lower qualifying investment kept in higher growth assets for a shorter period and with a light stay requirement. The Balanced category asks for a larger qualifying investment kept for a longer period across a wider range of acceptable assets.
Acceptable investments and the share that can go to different asset types are defined by Immigration New Zealand and have been adjusted over time. Confirm the live list of acceptable investments and any recent changes with the authority before committing any funds.
Under the Growth category you generally hold the investment for thirty six months and can seek permanent residence after that period, with a light minimum stay. Under the Balanced category you generally hold the investment for sixty months with a larger minimum stay.
Processing depends on the completeness of the application and the source of funds review. Plan ahead and confirm current scheduling and stay requirements with Immigration New Zealand.
The figures below are the headline investment amounts. Government fees and professional costs are separate. Confirm the current amounts, holding periods and acceptable investments with Immigration New Zealand.
| Item | Indicative amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Growth category investment | From NZD 5 million | Held for thirty six months in acceptable investments. Light minimum stay. Confirm current rules |
| Balanced category investment | From NZD 10 million | Held for sixty months across a wider range of acceptable investments. Larger minimum stay |
| Government and visa fees | Confirm the current figure with the official authority | Application and levy fees apply |
Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. Immigration New Zealand publishes the binding detail. Verify before you act.
Yes. Chinese nationals are eligible as foreign investors. Eligibility depends on a qualifying investment and meeting the funds, character and health conditions, not nationality. Confirm the current rules with Immigration New Zealand.
The Growth category uses a lower investment held for a shorter period with a lighter stay requirement. The Balanced category uses a larger investment held for a longer period with a larger stay requirement. Confirm the current figures with the authority.
Immigration New Zealand administers the Active Investor Plus visa and publishes the binding rules, acceptable investments and fees.
Information, not advice. Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. Always confirm the present rules with the official program authority and a licensed professional before you act.
We introduce you to vetted, independent advisors, in confidence and at no obligation. Your topic is noted for you below.
Independent and paid by the people we help, never by a government and never by a firm.
One short email when a programme rule changes, with the official source named so you can verify it. No hype, unsubscribe anytime.