I am seeking options to migrate to New Zealand as soon as possible. With the investor 2 visa option that requires an investment of NZD $3 million, how fast can I enter the country? Can I enter before I launch an application or do I have to wait until approval is issued? I am from the United States.
This seemingly simple question does not have a simple answer. The New Zealand border is closed; therefore, there is no quick entry. Although you can apply under this category, they cannot decide whether you can enter. Therefore, you are not likely to enter, definitely not quickly, until the border opens or you are granted an exception, which is not readily given.
If you hold a U.S. passport, you do not have to apply for a visa before you travel to New Zealand. However, you must apply for New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) at least 72 hours before you travel, which is usually granted in 10 minutes. The certificate is valid for two years and allows three months of stay in each visit. With regard to Investor 2 visas, once your application is “approved in principle,” you will have 12 months to transfer your funds to approved investments in New Zealand. During this time, you can travel to New Zealand with NZeTA or can apply for an appropriate long-term visa if needed. Generally, it takes 25 months for processing your application, including the 12-month period to complete your investment in New Zealand.
Unfortunately, the government is only allowing New Zealand residents and citizens to enter freely. Non-New Zealanders will have to apply for border exemptions based on certain criteria. Resident visa applicants, including the investor category, will be treated the same as other temporary visa holders. Even if the application is approved in principle, you will have to transfer your investment fund within 12 months to get your resident visa. Before that, you are still not allowed to travel to New Zealand without first getting an exemption approval.
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