Long Term Business Visa
The LTBV is in effect a self employed work visa. You must understand the LTBV is a temporary visa/permit application i.e. is not permanent residence, however it does open up a pathway for a Residence application in the future.
This is possibly the most complex category of application and among other things requires a detailed business plan that is assessed for its degree of viability, credibility and potential benefit New Zealand.
The most important aspect of the LTBV process is the presentation of a detailed business plan in which the benefits to New Zealand are made clear and is accompanied by evidence of English language ability, health, character and business experience.
If the Immigration Department believes your plan is credible and you have the personal and business finance lined up you will be granted a nine month LTBV. This means you have that long to get to New Zealand and (if you are already in New Zealand that is okay) put the business plan into action. On the presentation of acceptable evidence of having done this the INZ will issue a further permit for 27 months.
Within this grand total of 36 months (9 + 27) you must own and operate the business for 24 months following which you are free to apply for residence under the Entrepreneur Category if you choose.
To find out more about the process for moving on to a Residence Class Visa go to the Entrepreneursection.
