Entrepreneur Work Visa
For people who want to buy or set up and run a business in New Zealand.
The Entrepreneur Work Visa is a New Zealand business, talent & investor visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~NZ$5,860 including levy) and processing time (~6-9 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Entrepreneur Work Visa is for
For people who want to buy or set up and run a business in New Zealand.
Can lead to the Entrepreneur Resident Visa after running the business successfully.
Entrepreneur Work Visa - eligibility criteria
- Invest at least NZ$100,000 in capital (some exemptions)
- Score at least 120 points on the entrepreneur scale
- Submit a detailed and viable business plan
- Have relevant business experience
- Meet English, health and character requirements
Entrepreneur Work Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Entrepreneur Work Visa (New Zealand) is ~NZ$5,860 including levy, with an indicative processing time of ~6-9 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Immigration New Zealand.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online, from outside or inside New Zealand |
| Length of stay | Up to 3 years (12-month start-up then 24-month balance) |
| Work rights | Self-employment in the approved business only |
| Study rights | Study limited to up to 3 months in any 12 months |
| Government fee | ~NZ$5,860 including levy |
| Processing time | ~6-9 months |
| Route to PR | Can lead to the Entrepreneur Resident Visa after running the business successfully. |
Pathway & next steps
Can lead to the Entrepreneur Resident Visa after running the business successfully.
Many applicants also compare Active Investor · Active Investor Plus Visa, SMC · Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, AEWV · Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). Run a free VisaChief check to see which New Zealand route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Entrepreneur Work Visa pitfalls we fix
Entrepreneur Work Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Entrepreneur Work Visa cost?
The Entrepreneur Work Visa government fee is ~NZ$5,860 including levy. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Immigration New Zealand before applying.
How long does the Entrepreneur Work Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~6-9 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Entrepreneur Work Visa lead to permanent residence?
Can lead to the Entrepreneur Resident Visa after running the business successfully.
Can I work on the Entrepreneur Work Visa?
Work rights: Self-employment in the approved business only.
Who can apply for the Entrepreneur Work Visa?
For people who want to buy or set up and run a business in New Zealand.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official New Zealand government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Immigration New Zealand - official New Zealand immigration authority