New Zealand’s government has announced the introduction of a new investor migrant visa with the aim of attracting high-value investors to invest in businesses in the country.

The Active Investor Plus visa will require migrants to make investments in domestic businesses, and will replace the previous investment visa categories, says New Zealand’s Economic and Regional Development Minister, Stuart Nash.

He said the old visas often saw migrants making investments in bonds and shares, as opposed to direct investment into New Zealand firms, Reuters news agency reports.

The Active Investor Plus visa will also scrap the ability for foreigners to gain residency in New Zealand by investing in bonds and property.

"We want to encourage active investment into New Zealand, which generates more high-skilled jobs and economic growth compared to passive investment," Nash said, adding the objective is to "attract active and high-value migrants who will bring their international expertise to help New Zealand businesses to grow.”

The new visa will reward those who make direct investments in domestic companies, which will need to be approved by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE).

This new visa category will come into effect on 19th September, and those who make direct investments can commit to lesser amounts than people making indirect investments, New Zealand Herald reports.

Investors making direct investments, approved by NZTE, only have to invest $5 million, whereas investors in private equity, venture capital funds, listed equities and philanthropy are required to invest a minimum of $15 million.

The investments can be made over three years, with investors having to continue their investment until the end of year four.

Furthermore, investors will need to spend 117 days in the country according to this new category, over the four years. 

According to Immigration Minister Michael Wood this will result in additional opportunities for investors to become involved within the firms they’re invested in, "further sharing their expertise and connections. Spending time here also increases the likelihood of further active investment," Wood stated.