Wealthy Americans are increasingly applying for New Zealand's 'golden visa', which offers residency to foreigners willing to invest in the country. This influx is largely attributed to the country's appealing natural landscapes and the desire of individuals to distance themselves from the political climate under former President Trump. The new Active Investor Plus visa, effective from April 2025, has significantly reduced requirements, allowing applicants to establish residency with a minimal investment of $5 million and only a three-week presence in New Zealand.

Since the implementation of these changes, Immigration New Zealand has reported a dramatic rise in applications, with 573 submissions representing 1,833 individuals, contrasting sharply with only 116 applications over the previous 30 months. The latest figures indicate that nearly 40% of these applications come from the United States, highlighting a shift towards New Zealand as an attractive destination for wealthy individuals seeking both lifestyle and investment opportunities.

Additionally, there has been a notable increase in applications from China, which have doubled since the new visa rules were announced. This trend reflects broader global migration patterns where affluent individuals are seeking alternative residency options, possibly spurred by economic and political challenges in their home countries. New Zealand's initiative thus positions the nation not only as a safe haven for wealth but also as a premier location for investment in real estate and business endeavors.