Through our private banking team, led by experienced advisers, we connect you with investment opportunities that meet visa requirements while aligning with your long-term financial goals.
Active Investor Plus Visa (AIP)
At Bancorp, we work with global investors to navigate New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus Visa with clarity and confidence. Through our private banking team, led by experienced advisers, we connect you with investment opportunities that meet visa requirements while aligning with your long-term financial goals
A smarter pathway to New Zealand residency through strategic investment
Understanding the Active Investor Plus Visa
The Active Investor Plus Visa is designed to attract experienced investors who can contribute to New Zealand’s economy through active, growth-oriented investments.
The visa is structured across two primary categories:
• Growth Category – focused on higher-impact investments such as private equity and direct business investment, typically with a shorter investment timeframe
• Balanced Category – offering a more diversified approach, including managed funds and listed investments, with a longer investment horizon
Each category has specific investment thresholds, residency requirements, and portfolio allocation rules. Navigating these correctly is critical – not just for visa approval, but for achieving strong long-term investment outcomes.
Securing an Active Investor Plus Visa is not just about meeting investment thresholds – it’s about making informed decisions in a new market.
Experience that goes beyond the visa
You’re not navigating this process alone – we guide you from initial enquiry through to investment execution and ongoing management.
At Bancorp, we bring:
• Deep expertise in New Zealand’s investment landscape
• Direct access to visa-qualifying opportunities
• A personalised, relationship-led approach
• A highly experienced team working with international investors
A relationship-led service
Our private banking team takes a hands-on approach, providing ongoing support well beyond the initial investment.
You can expect:
• Access to experienced private bankers including bi-lingual staff
• Clear, transparent communication
• Regular reporting aligned with AIP requirements
• Proactive portfolio oversight
• A long-term partnership mindset
A tailored investment approach
We understand that every investor’s situation is different. Our role is to structure an investment approach that meets AIP requirements while also delivering meaningful long-term value.
Our services include:
- Guidance on AIP visa investment categories
- Support in selecting the most appropriate investment pathway (Growth or Balanced)
- Access to approved investment opportunities (including growth-focused funds)
- Ongoing monitoring and reporting to ensure continued compliance
We also work alongside trusted legal, tax and immigration specialists as well as real estate agents to ensure every aspect of your application and investment structure is aligned.
Investor Residency Funds
Bancorp has created specialist funds and investments that meet NZTE guidelines and have been signed off for the Active Investor Plus Visa .
For enquiries please contact Mia Evans at mevans@bancorp.co.nz
Kākāpō Fund
An investment fund aligned with New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus framework. more info
- Invests in New Zealand businesses and growth sectors
- Government approved for Growth Category requirements
- Incorporates a strong sustainability and environmental focus, supporting initiatives such as native species conservation
- Liquidity
Castlerock
A fund offering access to New Zealand private market opportunities. more info
- Direct and structured investments into New Zealand businesses
- Focus on value creation and active management
- Suitable for investors seeking exposure to private equity-style opportunities
- Regular distributions and liquidity
What is the Active Investor Plus Visa?
The Active Investor Plus Visa allows experienced investors to gain New Zealand residency by making qualifying investments into the New Zealand economy. It is designed to attract capital that supports business growth, innovation, and long-term economic development.
What are the investment requirements?
The visa requires a minimum investment into approved New Zealand assets, with the amount and structure depending on whether you apply under the Growth or Balanced category.
What is the difference between the Growth and Balanced categories?
• Growth Category: requires a minimum investment of NZ$5 million over 3 years. Funds must be placed in higher-risk assets, such as managed funds and direct investments into New Zealand businesses (with philanthropy allowed for up to 20% of the total)
• Balanced Category: requires a minimum investment of NZ$10 million over 5 years. This allows for a wider, lower-risk mix of assets, including bonds, listed equities and property developments.
What types of investments qualify?
Qualifying investments can include:
• Approved assets management funds
• Listed equities (depending on category rules)
Can I buy property in New Zealand?
Under the Overseas Investment (National Interest Test and Other Matters) Amendment Act, which came into law on 6 March 2026, Active Investor Plus (AIP) visa holders can bypass New Zealand’s strict foreign buyer ban through a targeted, high-value real estate exemption.
The NZ$5 Million Threshold: The property’s real value must exceed NZ$5 million (excluding chattels like furniture). For vacant land or redevelopment, the combined cost of the land purchase and the construction contract must exceed NZ$5 million.
Do I need to be in New Zealand to apply?
No, investors begin the process offshore. We also work alongside trusted legal, tax and immigration specialists as well as real estate agents to ensure every aspect of your application and investment structure is aligned.
Can my family be included in the applciation?
Yes, the Active Investor Plus Visa allows you to include your partner and dependent children in your application.
Why choose Bancorp?
Bancorp offers:
• A highly personalised, private banking approach
• Direct access to visa-aligned and approved investment opportunities
• Deep local market expertise
• Experience working with international investors
• A long-term relationship focus beyond the visa
We are not just facilitating a visa – we are helping you establish a meaningful investment presence in New Zealand