Moving to New Zealand requires careful financial planning, and your net worth plays a central role in eligibility and comfort. Understanding the right level of savings and income helps you choose the right visa and settle without stress.
This guide breaks down how much net worth you realistically need, the income and asset thresholds, and practical steps to prepare your finances.
| Visa Category | Minimum Net Worth (Approx.) | Minimum Annual Income (Approx.) | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skilled Migrant (Points) | Moderate personal savings helpful | 62,000 NZD | Job offer and points |
| Work to Residence | Low to moderate | 53,000 NZD for tech roles | Critical skills occupation |
| Investor Visa | High | Stable investment income | 10 million NZD investment over 3–5 years |
| Entrepreneur Work Visa | Moderate to high | 80,000 NZD family unit | Business plan and experience |
| Retirement Visa | <>Very highPassive income from investments | 750,000 NZD liquid funds plus income |
Financial Requirements by Visa Type
Resident and Long-term Options
Each visa has distinct net worth and income expectations tied to its purpose. Skilled migrant pathways focus on employability, while investor and retirement routes demand significant capital. Reviewing specific thresholds helps you align your goals with realistic options.
Income and Savings Expectations
Proving Financial Stability
Immigration officials look for consistent income, accessible savings, and manageable debt. Bank statements, payslips, and investment reports should clearly show you can support yourself and any dependents without relying on public funds.
Asset Composition and Liquidity
What Counts as Net Worth
Liquidity matters more than property equity when assessing net worth. Cash, term deposits, shares, and retirement funds are valued most highly, while properties can be harder to convert quickly. Present a balanced mix with easy access to funds.
Cost of Living and Settlement Budget
Ongoing Financial Needs
Beyond entry requirements, you need funds for housing, transport, healthcare, and family expenses. Auckland and Wellington typically require higher budgets, while smaller cities and regions offer lower costs and broader affordability.
FAQ
How much net worth do I need to move to New Zealand through a skilled visa?
There is no fixed net worth requirement for skilled visas, but you should show enough savings to cover living costs for at least three to six months while you find work, typically several thousand NZD combined with meeting the income threshold of around 62,000 NZD.
Do I need 10 million NZD to move if I am an investor?
Yes, the Investor Visa usually requires a commitment to invest 10 million NZD over three to five years, alongside sufficient passive income and personal funds to support your family during settlement.
How much income is required for the Retirement Visa?
The Retirement Visa demands strong passive income, often around 75,000 NZD per person from sources like pensions or investments, plus proof of liquid funds of at least 750,000 NZD for the couple applying.
Can I include overseas assets in my net worth calculation?
Yes, you can include overseas cash, investments, and property, but you must provide official documentation, verified translations, and clear evidence that funds can be transferred to New Zealand legally and safely.
Key Takeaways and Next Steps
- Match your visa choice to your financial profile and long-term goals.
- Maintain liquid savings equal to at least three to six months of living costs.
- Show consistent income that meets or exceeds official thresholds.
- Prepare verified documents for all assets, including overseas holdings.
- Plan for higher budgets in major cities and lower costs outside them.
