US, UK, Germany, France, Spain, Luxembourg, and Canada Eye New Zealand for Long-Term Travel and Residency as Golden Visa Overhaul Triggers Investment Boom

Tuesday, June 24, 2025

Wealthy individuals from the US, UK, Germany, France, Spain, Luxembourg, and Canada are turning to New Zealand for long-term travel and residency because the country has dramatically eased its Golden Visa rules, slashing the minimum investment threshold and removing language barriers. This major policy shift has triggered a sharp surge in applications—189 in under three months—bringing in a projected half-billion dollars in fresh investment. With the promise of extended stays, family relocation, and a path to citizenship, New Zealand’s revamped investor visa is now a global magnet for high-net-worth individuals seeking security, mobility, and lifestyle in a stable, scenic destination.

Golden Visa Overhaul Makes Entry Easier

In April 2025, the New Zealand government made sweeping changes to its Active Investor Plus visa, often referred to as the country’s version of the Golden Visa. The minimum investment for high-growth sectors dropped from NZ$15 million (about US$9 million) to NZ$5 million (roughly US$3 million), while the requirement for English language proficiency was entirely removed. These changes made the pathway far more accessible for international investors looking for long-term presence in a stable, scenic, and economically resilient country.

According to Immigration Minister Erica Stanford, the changes immediately triggered a rush of new applications. In fewer than three months, Immigration New Zealand received 189 formal submissions under the updated scheme. That’s more than what was filed in the previous two and a half years combined under the old rules. The projected capital inflow from these applications now stands at an estimated NZ$845 million (US$503 million)—a massive boost for New Zealand’s economy.

US Leads as Wealthy Citizens Look South

Out of the 189 new applications, 85 were submitted by U.S. citizens, making the United States the single largest source of applicants by far. In fact, in the initial six-week period after the policy revamp, the U.S. accounted for 55 out of 65 early applications—an astounding 85% share at that time. These numbers underscore the growing appeal of New Zealand among wealthy Americans seeking long-term travel flexibility and a potential escape from the economic and political volatility back home.

Rising Interest Across Europe and Canada

While the U.S. leads the pack, immigration officials and analysts have confirmed strong interest from several other Western nations as well. Though detailed figures haven’t yet been released for every country, multiple reports from immigration sources indicate a surge in inquiries and filings from the UK, Germany, France, Spain, Luxembourg, and Canada.

These countries represent a growing wave of high-net-worth individuals looking beyond traditional migration hotspots. For many, New Zealand’s appeal lies in its low population density, clean environment, strong legal system, and ease of integration. The absence of a language requirement has made it especially attractive for European investors looking for a seamless migration pathway.

China and Hong Kong Remain Active Players

Beyond the Western surge, investors from China and Hong Kong are also tapping into the program. Immigration New Zealand confirmed that 26 applications came from China and 24 from Hong Kong. These regions have historically contributed to New Zealand’s investor migration stream, and the latest numbers suggest continued confidence in the country’s long-term economic and social stability.

Together, China and Hong Kong represent around 26% of the new applications, showing that while the Western inflow has surged, Asian interest remains a consistent pillar of the country’s investment migration landscape.

A Pathway to Long-Term Travel and Residency

The Active Investor Plus visa isn’t just a stamp in a passport—it’s a pathway to extended travel, family relocation, and eventual residency. Successful applicants receive a three-year visa and must spend at least 117 days in New Zealand over that period. That requirement is modest compared to other global residency programs and makes it appealing for those who wish to split their time between countries.

What’s more, the visa allows investors to bring their families, enroll children in local schools, and enjoy public healthcare access. Over time, many choose to apply for permanent residency or even citizenship. For those from the US, UK, and Europe, it’s a compelling option in an increasingly uncertain global landscape.

Boosting New Zealand’s Economic Recovery

This sudden spike in investor interest couldn’t come at a better time for New Zealand’s economy. After slipping into a technical recession last year—the country’s worst two-quarter GDP decline since 1991—New Zealand posted a better-than-expected economic rebound in the first quarter of 2025. The new wave of capital inflow from visa applicants could provide additional fuel for that recovery.

Unlike older schemes that primarily attracted passive investments in property, the revamped Golden Visa steers funds into active business ventures, startups, and local companies. This shift is intentional: the government aims to attract “smart capital” that generates jobs, innovation, and lasting economic impact.

Why New Zealand?

The country offers a unique combination of beauty, security, and opportunity. From the alpine peaks of the South Island to the urban energy of Auckland and Wellington, New Zealand blends high quality of life with strong governance and a welcoming attitude toward newcomers. For global investors, it represents a “Plan B” destination—an ideal place to retreat, invest, and build a new chapter of life.

This appeal is only growing. With geopolitical tensions, rising inflation, and economic volatility across North America and Europe, more individuals from the UK, Germany, France, Spain, Luxembourg, and Canada are reevaluating their long-term residency plans. For them, New Zealand checks all the boxes.

Travel Synergies and Luxury Tourism

The Golden Visa is also helping supercharge the luxury travel sector. Many of the applicants are affluent travelers who visit New Zealand repeatedly before making a long-term commitment. Their presence supports local tourism, from high-end lodges and guided adventure tours to charter flights and wellness resorts. Travel agencies and law firms across London, Toronto, Frankfurt, and Paris report increased interest in combining elite travel packages with long-stay visa options.

High-net-worth individuals from the US, UK, Germany, France, Spain, Luxembourg, and Canada are flocking to New Zealand for long-term travel and residency after the government slashed its Golden Visa investment threshold and removed key barriers. The revamped policy has triggered a surge in global applications, unlocking over half a billion dollars in potential new investment.

By opening the door wider, New Zealand is not only diversifying its economy but also reinforcing its global brand as a destination where investment, lifestyle, and long-term travel go hand in hand.

New Zealand’s bold reforms to its investor visa program are paying off quickly. As high-net-worth individuals from the US, UK, Germany, France, Spain, Luxembourg, and Canada flock to the country in pursuit of long-term travel, lifestyle migration, and secure investment, the Golden Visa surge is becoming a cornerstone of New Zealand’s post-recession economic revival.

With hundreds of millions in potential capital already lined up and the promise of more to come, the Golden Visa is no longer just a niche pathway—it’s a global magnet for those looking to invest, travel, and thrive in one of the world’s most desirable destinations.