New Zealand migrant entrepreneurs face challenges despite new visa schemes

Research into high-skilled immigrant entrepreneurs in New Zealand suggests that a lack of business support may be driving talent away. While the government aims to boost innovation and productivity through new migration schemes, entrepreneurs report frustration regarding their ability to establish legitimacy and access essential resources.

Following the closure of the Entrepreneur Work Visa, the government introduced the Business Investor Visa. This new pathway requires migrants to invest at least NZ$1 million in an established local business, with a NZ$2 million investment offering a faster route to residency. The policy shift focuses on attracting experienced individuals who can provide capital to existing firms.

However, interviews with 22 immigrant entrepreneurs revealed significant hurdles. Many participants struggled to secure funding, customers, and business partnerships within the local ecosystem. These difficulties have led some to leave the country, while others have considered departing to seek better support and opportunities elsewhere, often relying on international networks to bypass local limitations.