# NZ Business Visa: Buying a Business as an Immigrant
New Zealand is consistently ranked as one of the best countries in the world to do business. The World Bank's Ease of Doing Business Index has placed NZ in the top three globally for years. For immigrants looking to buy a business in New Zealand, the country offers clear pathways, transparent regulations, and a welcoming environment.
But navigating the visa system while simultaneously buying a business can be complex. This guide breaks down everything you need to know.
Why Buy a Business in New Zealand?
Before diving into visa categories, here's why NZ is attractive for immigrant business buyers:
- Transparent legal system — English-based common law, strong property rights
- No stamp duty or capital gains tax (with limited exceptions)
- English-speaking — reduces the language barrier for many immigrants
- Lifestyle factors — clean environment, excellent healthcare, safe communities
- Gateway to PR — owning a successful business can lead to permanent residency
The NZ economy is diverse and resilient, with strong sectors including tourism, agriculture, technology, food and beverage, and professional services.
Visa Categories for Business Buyers
1. Entrepreneur Work Visa (formerly the Entrepreneur Visa)
This visa is designed for people who want to buy or establish a business in New Zealand.
Key requirements:
- Minimum investment of NZ$100,000 in the business (excluding working capital)
- A detailed business plan showing the business will benefit New Zealand
- Relevant business experience or qualifications
- A minimum of 120 points on the Entrepreneur points scale
- Sufficient funds to support yourself and any dependents
- Good health and character
Point system factors include:
- Capital investment amount (higher investment = more points)
- Business experience
- Whether the business is in a designated growth area
- Age (bonus points for under 40)
- Job creation potential
Process: 1. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through INZ 2. If selected, you have 12 months to buy or establish the business 3. Operate the business for a minimum of 6 months 4. Apply for a further 2-year visa to continue operating 5. After 3 years of successful operation, apply for residence
2. Investor Visa (Investor 1 and Investor 2)
For those with more capital, the Investor visas offer a more straightforward path.
Investor 2 (Active Investor Plus):
- Minimum investment of NZ$1 million over 4 years
- Funds must be invested in acceptable investments (which can include buying a business)
- Must spend at least 117 days in NZ over the 4-year investment period
- Age limit: must be under 65
- Minimum of 3 years' business experience
- Minimum English language ability (IELTS 3.0 or equivalent)
Investor 1 (no cap):
- Minimum investment of NZ$10 million over 3 years
- No age limit, no English requirement, no business experience requirement
- Must spend at least 88 days in NZ over the 3-year investment period
3. Skilled Migrant Category (Post-Purchase)
If you already have a job offer or are buying a business that qualifies as skilled employment, you may apply through the Skilled Migrant Category. The business must provide you with a role that matches an occupation on the NZ Skill Level classification.
What Types of Businesses Are Best for Immigrants?
Not all businesses are equally suitable. Based on Immigration NZ guidelines and practical experience, the best options include:
High-Suitability Businesses - Hospitality — cafes, restaurants, accommodation (especially in tourism regions) - Export-oriented businesses — leveraging connections to your home country - IT and tech services — high growth, low capital, skilled employment - Education and training — language schools, tutoring centres - Import/export — connecting NZ with overseas markets
Businesses to Approach with Caution - Liquor stores and dairies (low margins, long hours, immigration scrutiny) - Cash-heavy businesses (hard to verify income, potential red flags) - Businesses with declining revenue (hard to demonstrate benefit to NZ)
Capital Requirements and Financial Planning
Minimum Capital Needed (Entrepreneur Visa)
| Component | Estimated Cost |
| Business purchase price | $100,000 – $500,000+ |
| Working capital (6 months) | $30,000 – $100,000 |
| Legal and accounting fees | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Visa application fees | $3,500 – $5,000 |
| Settlement costs (housing, etc.) | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Total minimum | $160,000 – $660,000+ |
Funding Sources
- Personal savings (must provide evidence of legitimacy)
- Offshore loans (with proper documentation)
- NZ bank lending (possible post-visa, usually 50-60% of business value)
- Family gifts (need statutory declarations)
Immigration NZ will scrutinise the source of your funds. You'll need bank statements, tax returns, and potentially statutory declarations proving the funds are legitimately yours.
Step-by-Step Process for Immigrant Business Buyers
Step 1: Research and Preliminary Planning (3-6 months before) - Research the NZ market and identify suitable industries - Engage an immigration adviser (licensed under the Immigration Advisers Licensing Act 2007) - Begin preparing financial documentation
Step 2: Visit New Zealand - Attend business expos and industry events - Visit potential businesses in person - Meet with local business brokers - Explore regions and cities where you'd like to live
Step 3: Identify and Evaluate Businesses - Browse platforms like OpenBiz to find businesses for sale across NZ - Use the AI valuation tool to quickly assess whether asking prices are reasonable - Shortlist 3-5 businesses for deeper due diligence
Step 4: Engage NZ Professionals - Immigration adviser (essential) - Commercial lawyer experienced in business sales - Chartered accountant familiar with immigrant business purchases - Business broker (if not already involved)
Step 5: Prepare Your Business Plan For the Entrepreneur visa, you'll need a detailed business plan covering: - Executive summary - Market analysis - Financial projections (3 years) - How the business benefits New Zealand (job creation, exports, innovation) - Your relevant experience and qualifications
Step 6: Make an Offer and Complete Due Diligence - Sign a Sale and Purchase Agreement with appropriate conditions - Complete financial, legal, and operational due diligence - Verify the lease, staff contracts, and licenses
Step 7: Apply for Your Visa - Submit your visa application with all supporting documents - Processing times vary: typically 3-6 months for Entrepreneur visa
Step 8: Settle and Operate - Complete the business purchase - Register for GST, PAYE, and other tax obligations with IRD - Notify local council of the ownership change - Begin building your NZ business track record
Common Mistakes Immigrants Make
- Buying before getting visa advice — always consult an immigration adviser first
- Underestimating working capital — you need runway for the transition period
- Choosing a business solely based on visa eligibility — you still need to enjoy and be good at running it
- Not verifying financials independently — always engage your own accountant
- Ignoring location lifestyle factors — you're not just buying a business, you're choosing a home
Key Resources
- Immigration New Zealand — immigration.govt.nz
- New Zealand Companies Office — companiesoffice.govt.nz
- IRD (Inland Revenue) — ird.govt.nz
- OpenBiz — Browse businesses for sale and use free valuation tools
Final Thoughts
Buying a business in New Zealand as an immigrant is absolutely achievable with the right preparation, professional support, and realistic expectations. The country genuinely welcomes entrepreneurs who will contribute to the economy. Start your search early, get proper advice, and use tools like OpenBiz to make informed decisions about your investment.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Consult a licensed professional before making any business decisions.