English language test results for an Active Investor Plus Visa

English language test results we accept for Active Investor Plus Visa applications made before 1 April 2025.

English language test results we accept

Note

Changes were made to the Active Investor Plus Visa on 1 April 2025, making investing in New Zealand more attractive. As part of these changes, the requirement to speak and understand English was removed. The information on this page only applies for people who applied for an Active Investor Plus Visa before 1 April 2025, and who did not transition their application to the new visa.

Investor category update provides attractive investment options

Your standard of English

You (the principal applicant) must speak and understand English.

Most of the time we ask you to show this in your application with English language test results.

English language test results for Active Investor Plus Visa applicants

Active Investor Plus Visa applicants can show they can speak and understand English with test results.

Check Table 1 to find out which English language test results we accept if you are the principal applicant. 

If you need test results for your application they must be no more than 2 years old at the time you apply and must be obtained by sitting the test in person at a test centre. Tests taken remotely outside of a test centre, such as ‘at home’ tests are not acceptable.

IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR)

In 2023 the International English Language Test System (IELTS) provider introduced a One Skill Retake option for both their Academic and General Training tests. The IELTS One Skill Retake must be completed within 60 days of the original test date.

Cambridge language assessments

The Cambridge English: First (FCE) is now called B2 First.

The Cambridge English: First for Schools (FCE) is now called B2 First for Schools.

Table 1: Test and score required
Test Minimum score you need

International English Language Testing System (IELTS):

 5 overall
Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-Based Test (TOEFL iBT) 35 overall
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) 36 overall
Cambridge English B2 First 154 overall
Cambridge B2 First for Schools 154 overall

Occupational English Test (OET)
Paper or computer-based test

Grade C or higher in all 4 skills — listening, reading, writing and speaking. 

You need a score of Grade C or higher in all 4 skills as there is no overall grade for this test.

Use your background to show English proficiency

Instead of taking an English language test, you can meet our English language requirements by proving you have an English-speaking background that is at the level needed for your visa.

English-speaking background