Wealthy Americans are at the forefront of a significant increase in applications for New Zealand’s “golden visa,” driven by the country’s natural allure and a desire to distance themselves from the political climate under former President Donald Trump. The revamped visa program, which came into effect in April 2025, has introduced more accessible criteria, including reduced investment thresholds and relaxed residency requirements.
The new Active Investor Plus visa rules have lowered the investment threshold, eliminated English-language requirements, and reduced the time applicants must spend in New Zealand from three years to just three weeks. Successful applicants are permitted to purchase homes in New Zealand valued at over $5 million. Since these changes, the program has attracted 573 applications, encompassing 1,833 individuals, a significant increase from the previous 116 applications over two-and-a-half years.
American and Chinese Investors Dominate Applications
According to Immigration New Zealand, nearly 40% of the new visa applicants are from the United States, with China and Hong Kong following closely. Notably, since August 2025, applications from China have more than doubled, rising from 45 to 95. Other countries in the top ten include Germany, Taiwan, Singapore, Vietnam, Japan and South Korea (tied), and Great Britain.
The visa offers two categories: the “growth” category, requiring a minimum NZ$5 million investment over three years, and the “balanced” category, with a $10 million investment over five years. Previously, the scheme demanded a $15 million investment.
A Personal Story: The Andelman Family
Courtney and Jim Andelman, a venture capital couple from California, were the 100th family to receive the visa. The program allows them to spend more time in New Zealand, a country Courtney fell in love with 30 years ago during a backpacking trip. “This is not just about fun and games and having a chance to live in one of the most amazing countries on the planet – this is also a really smart investment scheme. It’s smart for us,” she explained.
The Andelmans have invested in various venture funds and are particularly interested in New Zealand’s “deep-tech” industry, which includes artificial intelligence, robotics, and biotechnologies. Despite the opportunity to purchase a home, they opted against it, citing the $5 million price tag and a desire not to strain the housing market. Instead, they plan to split their time between New Zealand and Santa Barbara.
Expert Insights and Historical Context
Robbie Paul, CEO of Icehouse Ventures in Auckland, has assisted over 30 applicants in navigating the golden visa process. Many Americans, he notes, view the visa as an escape from Trump’s administration. “I’ll put it this way, never in my time in New Zealand, did I have an applicant reference Biden or Obama … and then, absolutely, a lot of references to people’s feelings towards Maga and Trump,” he stated.
New Zealand has long been a refuge for Trump-weary Americans. Following Trump’s 2016 election victory, visits to New Zealand’s immigration website surged by nearly 2,500%. Similar spikes occurred after the US Supreme Court’s decision on Roe v. Wade and Trump’s 2024 election win, underscoring the appeal of New Zealand as a political and social sanctuary.
After Peter Thiel, the billionaire co-founder of PayPal, was granted citizenship in 2017 despite spending only 12 days in the country, the former Labour prime minister Jacinda Ardern tightened the rules on investment visas.
Ardern’s administration also banned foreign home ownership in 2018 to curb rising housing prices. However, the new visa allows holders to purchase homes worth more than $5 million, partially lifting the ban.
Economic Implications and Future Prospects
While the golden visa attracts foreign investment, New Zealand faces challenges with citizens leaving the country due to economic issues. In 2025, 66,300 citizens departed, slightly fewer than the 67,200 in 2024, indicating potential stabilization.
The Active Investor Plus visa scheme has generated $3.39 billion in investment for New Zealand, according to Immigration NZ.
Immigration Minister Erica Stanford emphasized the importance of international investment for economic growth. “International investment is critical for lifting productivity, supporting jobs, and helping New Zealand businesses to expand,” she stated.
As New Zealand navigates its economic challenges and opportunities, the golden visa program represents a strategic move to attract global talent and investment, positioning the country as a desirable destination for wealthy individuals seeking both refuge and opportunity.
