Which major change has been implemented in New Zealand’s Golden Visa Program from June 1, 2026? What is the minimum investment required by investors in the ‘Growth’ category of Active Investor Plus Visa? Under the new rules, what is the maximum portion of the investment amount that can be donated to charity or environmental projects?
VTo attract domestic investors to its country, New Zealand has announced an important change in its famous ‘Golden Visa’ program. According to the new rule, now donations made to charity or environment related projects will also be counted in the investment made for getting permanent residency. These new rules will come into effect from June 1, 2026. This change has been made in the ‘Growth’ category of New Zealand’s ‘Active Investor Plus Visa’ program. After this, foreign investors will be able to apply for permanent residency by donating directly to the social, cultural and environmental sectors of the country.
According to the new guidelines, those applying in the ‘Growth’ category will be required to invest 50 lakh New Zealand dollars (approximately Rs 25 crore). A maximum of 20% of this amount, i.e. up to NZ$1 million, can be donated to recognized charitable organizations, wildlife conservation projects or environmental causes. The remaining amount will have to be invested in areas like fast-growing businesses, startups or managed funds.
Welcoming the decision, New Zealand’s Immigration Minister Erica Stanford said, “Over the past year, many investors and charities have asked for the opportunity to contribute directly to social and environmental causes. This type of donation will be of great help to charities doing great work for society.”
Currently, there are two ways to invest in the Active Investor Plus Visa Program…
1. ‘Growth’ Category: In this, 5 million New Zealand dollars have to be invested in high-risk areas for three years. During this period, the applicant is also required to stay in New Zealand for at least 21 days.
2. ‘Balanced’ Category: In this, an investment of 10 million New Zealand dollars has to be made for five years. This includes bonds, shares and selected real estate projects. Applicants in this category have to spend at least 105 days in the country. However, those who invest higher amounts may get some relaxation in the living conditions.
Through this new reform, New Zealand not only wants to increase foreign investment, but also wants to raise money for the country’s social and environmental development works. This model combining investment and social responsibility could capture attention around the world.