New Zealand will allow wealthy migrants to count charitable donations toward the investment requirement of its popular golden visa program from June 1, widening the scope of a scheme that has already attracted billions of dollars in pledged investments.
Under the updated rules, applicants in the Growth category can include donations of up to 20% of the required NZ$5 million investment to registered charities and approved conservation projects. The remaining amount must still go into higher-growth investments such as businesses or managed funds.
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Immigration Minister Erica Stanford announced the change on Monday and said the government had received requests from investors and charities for a direct way to support social and environmental projects in New Zealand.
“Over the last year I have met a number of investors, potential investors, and heard from charities, asking for investors to be able to contribute directly to social, environmental, conservation, or cultural good in New Zealand through a philanthropic gift,” Stanford said. “Charities make invaluable contributions to our communities and for many a philanthropic gift can make a significant difference in being able to continue their important work.”
The move comes as New Zealand’s investor visa program continues to draw strong interest after the coalition government revised the rules in April 2025.
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According to Immigration New Zealand, the country had received 730 applications covering 2,390 people as of May 20. The applications represent a potential minimum investment of NZ$4.3 billion. Around one-third of applicants are from the United States.
The Growth category requires migrants to invest NZ$5 million in higher-risk assets for three years. Applicants must spend at least 21 days in New Zealand during that period.
Another route under the program, the Balanced category, requires a NZ$10 million investment over five years across assets including bonds, equities and some property investments. Applicants under this category must stay in the country for 105 days, although the stay requirement can be reduced with higher investment levels.
