NewZealand - Long-Term Business Visa

Under their Long-Term Business Visa (LTBV) policy you can apply for a three-year work visa to give you enough time to move to New Zealand and start your business before you apply for residence.
To get a Long Term Business Visa and Permit (or just a Permit) to establish a business in New Zealand.
Some people will need a Long Term Business Visa or Permit, some people won’t.
Before you check whether you’re eligible for a visa or permit, find out whether you need one because…

You may not need a visa or permit

You don’t need a visa or permit if you are:

  • - a New Zealand citizen, or
  • - a New Zealand resident, or
  • - the holder of a valid Australian passport, or
  • - the holder of a current Australian Permanent Resident Visa, or
  • - the holder of a current Australian Resident Return Visa.

What is required - Long Term Business Visas

To be eligible to come to New Zealand under their Long Term Business Category, there are a number of conditions you need to meet before you get here. And there are other conditions you must meet while you’re here.

To enter New Zealand you need: 
  • - to be in good health and of good character 
  • - to have a reasonable standard of English 
  • - to have a sound business plan & evidence that you have enough money aside from investment funds to support yourself and any partner or children coming with you 
  • - to have the right visa for your visit.

While you’re here…

If department approves your application under their Long Term Business Category, in the first instance they’ll grant you a Work Permit that expires after nine months. This allows you the time to take steps to establish your business. Before the nine months have expired you can apply for a further Work Permit to take your stay up to a total of three years.

To gain a further permit, you need to show:
  • - You’re making reasonable progress in setting up your business. This could include:
  1. a certificate of incorporation or other documents that provide evidence of the business’ constitution
  2. audited accounts
  3. GST records
  4. other tax records
  5. documents showing property lease or purchase by the business
  6. invoices for business equipment and supplies
  7. other documents such as employment agreements, bank statements, invoices from phone and power companies.

    As well, during your time here you must keep within New Zealand laws. If not, Immigration Department may revoke your permit.