Starting a Business in New Zealand: Is It Possible?

Did you know that 28%* of French expats worldwide have embarked on an entrepreneurial adventure? For French expats in New Zealand, there are many who want to export their “Made in France” know-how to the land of kiwis and who dream of opening a pancake food truck, bus, café…

But what about reality? Who can apply for entrepreneurship in New Zealand? What are the New Zealand immigration rules for setting up a company? New Zealand Servicesa partner Little Oakland Diary and an all-entrepreneur New Zealand facilitator, lifting the veil on entrepreneurial potential in the land of the long white cloud.

What visas to do?

The first question to ask when you want to start a business in New Zealand, without residence status: What visa is suitable for this venture? In fact, many visas offer French expats the possibility of doing business in New Zealand, but they must still be eligible and meet specific immigration requirements.

Partner work visa

For expats who benefit from the Partnership Business Visa, the job opportunities in New Zealand are massive! Its owner enjoys great freedom as he can work for any employer and undertake complete freedom. the reason ? This visa is linked to her partner’s work visa and is not dependent on a New Zealand employer. This type of visa is called an “open” business visa.

Do you qualify for a partner visa? click here for more information !

Businessman visa

To set up your own business or buy an existing business in New Zealand, when you are not benefiting from an ‘Open’ business visa, it is the ‘Business Visa’ that will be adapted to that venture.

Be warned, however, that the criteria for this visa are very onerous and only 5% of applications are approved by immigration.

• At least $100,000 investment
• You have successful entrepreneurial experience and if possible in the same sector of activity
• You have an innovative and promising business with great export potential
• Objective: To contribute to the country’s growth and international influence
• Points Visa: Commitment to a total of 120 points on the immigration scale

Although very trendy among the French, such business creation ventures as crepes, bakeries, permaculture lodges, etc. They are actually very complex to implement and only a few of them ever see the light of day.

Question about setting up a company or any other project in New Zealand? Contact our partner New Zealand Services.

_{* No. 2016. Source: www.capital.fr}