Investor Migrant update – April 2024

The Active Investor Plus programme is gaining traction, and New Zealand remains an appealing destination for investors and their families. With ongoing interest from potential investor migrants and an expanding number of New Zealand companies and funds looking for investment, we are well positioned to accelerate the flow of investor migrants.

Visa applications

As of 17 April 2024, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has received 52 AIP visa applications, of these applications:

• 20 are approved, with a resident visa granted.

• 14 are approved in principle and now able to invest, working towards being fully approved.

• 12 are in progress.

• 6 have been withdrawn.

These investments represent a committed investment value of more than $500 million in New Zealand, of which
• 44% has been invested in direct investments.
• 11% in managed funds.
• 45% in listed equities.

We have witnessed ongoing significant demand from the US market, and this is almost anticipated to continue as the November presidential election approaches. We have also witnessed a significant surge in interest and applications from Hong Kong, another corner of the world confronting particular issues. Given Henley & Co's forecast that up to 128,000 HNW/UHNWs may seek alternative residence or citizenship by 2024, it is obvious that New Zealand is well positioned to capitalize on more mobile talent and capital.

Immigration New Zealand commissioned research in 2013/14 to determine why investor migrants picked New Zealand, and while the key conclusions are over a decade old, they remain relevant—possibly even more so—in today's more complex, uncertain world.

Investors placed a high value on New Zealand's natural environment and quality of life, which is not surprising.

Perhaps more interesting is the importance they place on political stability, openness, and personal safety for themselves and their families. This research is supported by worldwide data that show New Zealand ranks highly in areas such as safety and security, economic opportunity, and quality of life.

Direct investments and Managed Funds

As of 23 April 2024, there have been:

160 applications for suitable direct investments were submitted, with 91 accepted and 20 awaiting review.

There have been 50 applications for appropriate managed funds, with 36 accepted and two currently under review. Thirty of these managed funds are now available for investment.

While most prominent funds in the market have been approved, new funds continue to apply. Elliptic is a new fund of note, financed by two US limited partners who are also seeking AIP as individuals.

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