New Zealand Relaxes Rules to Attract Wealthy Foreigners with 'Golden Visa'

As of August 2025, the New Zealand government is considering relaxing its foreign buyer ban to attract more high-net-worth individuals through its 'golden visa' program. The proposed changes would allow 'golden visa' holders to purchase luxury homes worth at least $3 million, a move aimed at boosting foreign investment in the country.

The bill, currently under discussion in the New Zealand parliament, would amend the Overseas Investment Act 2005 to reduce compliance costs and safeguard the country's "national interest." Supporters of the measure argue that New Zealand needs foreign investment to grow its economy, while opponents claim the changes would disadvantage ordinary workers in favor of the wealthy.

In the past three months, New Zealand has received 189 'golden visa' applications, a significant increase from the 116 submissions over the previous two-and-a-half years. Nearly half of these applications came from U.S. citizens, with Chinese citizens having the second-highest number. The government has also recently relaxed visa rules, removing an English language requirement and reducing the time required for people to spend in New Zealand.

The growing popularity of New Zealand's 'golden visa' program reflects the global uncertainty, with the country being seen as a safe haven for the wealthy. As one former New Zealand minister stated, "There are many Americans wanting to settle in New Zealand, as we're seen as this oasis at the bottom of the world."