Immigration Minister to Promote $1b Investor Visa in US Trade Mission

Immigration Minister Erica Stanford will lead a high-level delegation to the United States this week to showcase New Zealand’s investment opportunities and promote the Active Investor Plus visa programme. The visit, organised in partnership with Invest New Zealand, will feature events in New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, connecting Kiwi businesses with influential investors.

$1 Billion in Proposed Investment Already Attracted

Since reforms to the Active Investor Plus visa came into effect on 1 April, the programme has already generated over $1 billion in proposed new investment. The majority of applications have come from US-based investors, underscoring the strong interest in New Zealand as a destination for secure, growth-oriented capital.

“Heading to the US will provide an opportunity to meet with potential investors who want to know more about what New Zealand has to offer,” Minister Stanford said.

She added that international investors are increasingly recognising New Zealand as a safe, pro-business, and high-potential economy.

Why the US Matters for New Zealand Investment

The United States is a key target for New Zealand’s investment strategy, not only because of its scale but also due to the synergies in technology, creative industries, agriculture, and sustainability sectors. The delegation will aim to build relationships with venture capital firms, private equity groups, and high-net-worth individuals who can contribute not just capital, but also expertise and global networks.

“Investor migrants are clearly attracted to our growing reputation as a safe, pro-business, high-potential economy,” Stanford said. “Attracting investment to New Zealand is crucial to boosting economic growth. It will also support our businesses to expand, hire and grow – and that means more opportunities for New Zealanders.”

Events in New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco

The delegation’s programme will include a series of networking events, investor briefings, and sector showcases hosted by Invest NZ. Each city will highlight New Zealand’s strengths:

• New York – Focus on financial services, technology investment, and high-value consumer brands.

• Los Angeles – Engagement with creative industries, screen production, and innovation-led companies.

• San Francisco – Meetings with venture capital firms, tech entrepreneurs, and sustainability-focused investors in Silicon Valley.

These events will give potential investors firsthand insights into New Zealand’s business environment, regulatory stability, and sector opportunities.

A Boost for Kiwi Businesses and Jobs

The Government expects the Active Investor Plus visa to play a key role in economic growth by directing capital into high-value sectors. Unlike traditional investor visas, the revised framework encourages investment into New Zealand companies and funds, rather than passive assets such as property.

“Capital from overseas investors will help New Zealand companies expand, innovate, and hire more staff,” Stanford said. “This is not just about money coming into the country; it’s about building stronger, globally connected businesses that create more jobs and opportunities for New Zealanders.”

Travel Details

Minister Stanford will travel to the United States on 15 September and return on 21 September 2025. The trip highlights the Government’s commitment to active promotion of New Zealand abroad, ensuring the country remains competitive in attracting investment in an increasingly contested global market.