For several years, most overseas persons have been prohibited from buying existing residential property in New Zealand. In 2026 a limited exception opened for high-value purchases by certain investor visa holders.
What changed
- From 6 March 2026, overseas buyers holding an Active Investor Plus (AIP) visa can apply for consent to buy or build residential property valued at NZ$5 million or more.
- Land can also be purchased where the buyer commits to building and the combined land and construction cost exceeds NZ$5 million.
- Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) operates a streamlined consent pathway. The statutory decision timeframe is 15 working days, and LINZ has indicated it aims to assess most applications much faster.
What is excluded
The streamlined pathway applies to residential property, including lifestyle properties, but not everything qualifies. Sensitive land, larger lifestyle or rural holdings, sites with complex or multiple titles and some waterfront properties fall outside the streamlined route. Price alone does not determine eligibility. Applications outside the pathway may still be possible but involve longer timeframes and additional conditions.
Who is still restricted?
Most overseas persons without the right visa and consent remain restricted from buying existing homes. New Zealand citizens, and residents who meet the “ordinarily resident” test, and citizens of certain trading partner countries, are generally treated differently. Your status needs to be checked before you sign an agreement.
Practical tips for buyers
- Make the agreement conditional on obtaining consent where consent is needed.
- Confirm your visa conditions and investment requirements with your immigration adviser.
- Allow time for source-of-funds checks. Lawyers must verify identity and the origin of funds under anti-money laundering laws.
- Get tax advice on your obligations as a non-resident property owner.
Property and immigration often overlap. Because we advise on both, we can help coordinate your visa and your purchase.
Last reviewed October 2026. General information only, not legal advice.
