If you want to work in your own business in New Zealand, and you have business experience relevant to the business you wish to buy or establish, you can apply for a long term business visa as a step towards gaining residence in New Zealand through one of our Entrepreneur categories.

To have your application approved under the Long Term Business Category, there are a number of requirements you need to meet, and everyone included in your application will have to meet our health, character, and English language requirements. 

Your business

You will need to submit a sound business plan, and show relevant knowledge about the New Zealand business environment, and how your intended business venture will benefit New Zealand, as well as providing evidence about your relevant business experience.

Funds

You will also need to have enough funds (apart from the funds you plan to invest in your business) to support yourself and (if applicable) your partner and children for the duration of your long term business visa.

Initial nine-month work visa and balance of three years

If we approve your application, in the first instance we’ll grant you a work visa that expires after nine months. This allows you the time to take steps to establish your business. Before the nine months have expired you will need to provide evidence to show you are making reasonable progress in setting up your business. If approved, you will be granted a further work visa to take your stay up to a total of three years.

Find out more and apply

If you think you meet the requirements, find out more about how to apply.

If you would prefer not to work full-time in your business, you might like to find out about our categories for investors.