-- For most of the past decade, the investment immigration landscape has been heavily centred on Europe. Countries such as Malta, Portugal, and Greece dominated global demand, offering structured residency and citizenship pathways. However, that landscape is now shifting.
Asia-Pacific destinations are increasingly gaining traction among high-net-worth individuals seeking residency and investor visa options. Countries including New Zealand, Australia, Thailand, and Vietnam have introduced or refined their investor visa frameworks over the past two to three years—making them more accessible, transparent, and strategically appealing.
Harvey Law Group, a multinational immigration law firm founded in 1992 and operating across more than 20 countries, is actively advising clients on programs across these jurisdictions as part of its expanding Asia-Pacific practice.
The Programs
New Zealand Active Investor Plus Visa
New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus Visa, restructured in 2023, offers two investment categories—Growth and Balanced—with minimum thresholds starting at NZD 5 million. Unlike passive investment schemes, this program requires capital to be actively deployed into New Zealand-based businesses or assets that contribute directly to the economy. Applicants must also meet minimum residency requirements based on their selected category.
Australia National Innovation Visa (NIV)
Australia’s National Innovation Visa is designed for investors and entrepreneurs with proven business or investment track records. It is among the more selective programs in the region, prioritising applicants who demonstrate active engagement in innovation, entrepreneurship, or investment activities rather than passive capital allocation.
Thailand Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa
Introduced in 2022, Thailand’s Long-Term Resident Visa offers a renewable 10-year residency across four categories: wealthy global citizens, retirees, remote professionals, and highly skilled individuals. The program includes fast-track government services and certain tax advantages for qualifying applicants.
Vietnam DT3 Investor Visa
Vietnam’s DT3 Investor Visa focuses on direct capital investment into local enterprises. Investment thresholds vary depending on sector and business type, making it a business-oriented pathway rather than a passive investment route.
Why Asia-Pacific Is Gaining Ground
Recent policy shifts in Europe have contributed to this growing interest. Spain suspended its Golden Visa program in 2025, while several EU countries have tightened regulations around investor migration.
As a result, Asia-Pacific programs are emerging as viable alternatives—not direct replacements, but distinct options offering different strategic advantages.
- New Zealand and Australia: Strong legal systems, political stability, and English-speaking environments
- Thailand and Vietnam: Lower cost of entry, fast-growing economies, and proximity to broader Asian markets
Jean-François Harvey, Founder and Managing Partner of Harvey Law Group, emphasises the long-term perspective behind such decisions:
“Most clients pursue a secondary citizenship not for visa-free travel but as a long-term strategic asset.”
— Jean-François Harvey, Founder and Managing Partner, Harvey Law Group
This perspective increasingly applies to residency programs as well. Investors are prioritising long-term flexibility—whether for relocation, business expansion, or family security—over short-term mobility benefits.
Key Considerations for Applicants
Asia-Pacific investor visa programs, particularly in New Zealand and Australia, require rigorous due diligence regarding the source of funds. Applicants must provide comprehensive documentation tracing the origin of their capital, including:
- Business ownership or exit records
- Property transactions
- Investment portfolios
- Inheritance documentation
Simple bank statements are not sufficient. Inadequate preparation can lead to delays or application refusals.
While strict due diligence is now standard globally, applicants who engage experienced legal advisors early in the process are significantly better positioned for success.
Harvey Law Group brings over 30 years of experience in handling complex immigration applications across multiple jurisdictions. Through its offices in Hong Kong and global network, the firm provides tailored guidance on program selection, eligibility assessment, and application preparation.
About Harvey Law Group
Harvey Law Group is a leading multinational immigration law firm specialising in residency and citizenship by investment immigration. Founded in 1992, the firm operates in more than 20 countries and advises high-net-worth individuals, families, and corporations on global mobility and cross-border investment strategies.
Contact Info:
Name: Jean-François Harvey
Email: Send Email
Organization: Harvey Law Group
Website: https://harveylawcorporation.com/
Release ID: 89188276
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