16 November 2009

New Entrepreneur Plus Visa category announced by New Zealand immigration

Immigration New Zealand has announced that the new Entrepreneur Plus Visa Category will come into effect from 30 November, providing a faster track to New Zealand residency for business migrants.

The Entrepreneur Plus Visa category is designed for migrants who can demonstrate they have been actively participating in business and contributing to New Zealand’s economic development.

To be approved residence under the Entrepreneur Plus Visa category you must hold a long-term business permit and have:

Successfully established a business in New Zealand;
Been 'self-employed' in your business;
Transferred at least NZ$0.5 million through the banking system to New Zealand;
Invested at least NZ$0.5 million in your business;
Created a minimum of three new full-time jobs for New Zealand citizens or residents (this is in addition to existing staff if you purchase a business);
A minimum English language ability of IELTS 4; AND
Met health and character requirements.

The New Zealand Visa Bureau is an independent consulting company specialising in helping people with New Zealand visas.