Immigration Chambers
New Zealand

Immigration New Zealand updated the Active Investor Plus visa on 13 August 2026. Changes require borrowed funds to match the jurisdiction of the assets backing them, clearer proof that funds were lawfully earned, and evidence gifted funds were unconditional. Managed fund investors no longer need a non-revocable agreement. Investment thresholds remain unchanged. Active Investor Plus Visa Changes: What Investors Need to Know for 2026 If you’re planning an Active Investor Plus (

Planning to bring family to New Zealand, host a tour group, or simply visit yourself? Immigration New Zealand is rolling out a major system upgrade - and the timing matters. From 24 September 2026, most visitor visa categories will only be accepted through INZ's Enhanced Immigration Online platform. The older portal is being phased out in stages, and by 8 October 2026, any draft applications still sitting unfinished there will be wiped for good. Here's the rollout in a nutshe

If you are preparing a New Zealand student visa application, one small document can now decide whether your application moves forward or gets declined outright. From 1 July 2026, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) requires applicants to submit their police certificate at the same time they lodge their student or temporary visa application. A receipt showing you have applied for one is no longer enough. INZ has confirmed it will generally not pause an application or reach out to as

From 20 July 2026, New Zealand’s Pathway Student Visa gives secondary school students (Year 12/13) students more flexibility (no need to name an exact tertiary course), expands eligible study pathways to NZQCF Levels 1 to 4, and extends the English language study allowance for first-time holders from 20 to 30 weeks. Introduction If you’re a Year 12 or 13 student planning to study in New Zealand, or a parent trying to map out that path, the rules around the Pathway Student Vi