REINZ Welcomes Reform Enabling Active Investor Plus Visa Holders To Buy Or Build Homes Over $5 Million

The Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) welcomes the passing into law of the Overseas Investment (National Interest Test and Other Matters) Amendment Act (Act), which introduces a more efficient and risk-based approach to overseas investment screening.

REINZ commends the Government and Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) for their work in reforming the Overseas Investment Act 2005 to speed up consenting processes and take a proportionate, risk-based approach to verification and assessment which will make it simpler and faster to invest in New Zealand.

The changes will see most consent decisions for lower-risk applications made within 15 working days unless there are reasonable grounds to believe a risk to national interest may exist, providing investors with greater certainty and confidence.

REINZ commends amendments enabling holders of the Active Investor Plus (AIP), Investor 1 or Investor 2 visa to buy or build a house above a $5 million threshold, provided the national interest test is met. This recognises the economic opportunities from attracting investors who genuinely wish to make New Zealand their home and support long-term economic growth. These changes will come into force in early 2026.

REINZ and our members support sensible reform that reduces unnecessary barriers while maintaining safeguards for sensitive assets. These changes help position New Zealand as an attractive destination for global capital, contributing to jobs, productivity and economic opportunity.

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