Entrepreneur Work Visa
🇳🇿 New Zealand visas · Business
What it is
For individuals seeking to establish or purchase a business in New Zealand. Requires minimum NZD $100,000 capital investment and 120 points on the entrepreneur scale. Note: currently closed to new applications; only renewals for existing holders.
Key facts
- Category
- Business
- Duration
- Up to 3 years (12 months start-up + 24 months operation)
- Processing time
- Up to 77 weeks
- Maximum validity
- 3 years
- Extendable
- Yes
- Path to permanent residence
- Indirect route
- Dependants
- Yes
- English requirement
- Required
- How to apply
- Online
- Health insurance
- Not required
Standard figures for this route. Some applicants pay a reduced fee or none at all, so confirm your own case on the official page.
Fees
- Application fee
- NZD 12,380
Key requirements
- Minimum capital investment of NZD $100,000
- Achieve at least 120 points on the entrepreneur points scale
- Detailed business plan for the business you intend to operate
- English language proficiency
- Good health (chest X-ray and medical exam required)
- Police certificate demonstrating good character
- Must start up or purchase your business within 12 months
- Be a fit and proper person
Working on this visa
Work only in your own New Zealand business, for up to 3 years
Bringing family
Partner and dependent children aged 19 and younger can be included.
Facts checked against the official source. Last updated 26 July 2026.