From 6 July 2026, Immigration New Zealand relaxed the Business Investor Work Visa: applicants can now invest in eligible franchise businesses, purchase businesses through a New Zealand resident entity, and use lawfully gifted capital as investment funds. The visa (minimum NZD $1m, or $2m for a 12-month fast-track to residence) previously excluded franchises when it launched in August 2025.
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NZ Business Investor Work Visa widened to franchises and gifted funds from 6 July 2026
Why this matters for founders
Founders seeking growth capital or an experienced operating partner can now structure deals through an NZ entity and tap migrant investors bringing gifted family capital into franchise or established-business acquisitions. Check the updated eligibility rules before pitching to prospective investor-migrants.
Source: Immigration New Zealand
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