The Cook Islands Resident Investor Visa and Permit is a residence pathway for foreign nationals who invest in the Cook Islands economy by establishing, acquiring, or operating a business. Governed by the Immigration Act 2021 and the Investment Code Order 2003, the program is jointly administered by Cook Islands Immigration (Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration) and the Business Trade and Investment Board (BTIB), which evaluates each proposal for its economic contribution — including local employment creation, skills transfer, capital injection, and Cook Islander participation.
The minimum capital investment is NZD$1,000,000 for Rarotonga or NZD$500,000 for investments on other islands. The BTIB prefers at least 70% of capital in real assets rather than financial instruments. For skills- or technology-oriented enterprises that do not require significant capital outlay, smaller investments may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Foreign capital must be brought into the Cook Islands in cash.
Certain sectors are reserved exclusively for Cook Islander ownership, including agriculture, marine resources, some tourism activities, and retail. Foreign investors may qualify for reserved sectors under specific exceptions: where Cook Islanders cannot purchase an existing business, where demand is unmet, for specialized projects Cook Islanders cannot resource, or through joint ventures with substantial Cook Islander participation.
The visa and permit is granted for up to 3 years, renewable as long as the holder continues to meet BTIB investment criteria. Since January 2024, mandatory breaks between permit periods have been removed, enabling continuous residence. Permanent residency requires a minimum of 10 years of continuous lawful residence (5 years for New Zealand citizens), plus completion of the Kia Orana Values cultural program, 312 hours of community service over the preceding 5 years, and endorsements from local community leaders.
Spouse and dependent children may be included in the application. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds for all dependants or have sponsorship arrangements in place. Dependants are subject to standard requirements for evidence of identity, character, and health.
The Cook Islands taxes income sourced within the Cook Islands at progressive rates up to 30% on income above NZD$24,000. There is no tax on foreign-sourced income, no capital gains tax, no inheritance tax, no stamp duty, and no wealth tax. Investors registered with BTIB must obtain a Revenue Management Division number and pay all required taxes and superannuation contributions.
Foreigners cannot own freehold land in the Cook Islands. Foreign investors may lease land for up to 60 years — leases of up to 5 years receive automatic approval, while leases of 5 to 60 years require approval from the Leases Restrictions Committee. The Unit Titles Act 1972 permits foreign investors to own defined building units (strata title) without leasing the underlying land.
The process involves two parallel tracks:
Upon BTIB approval, the Board notifies Immigration and relevant government agencies. The investor must then register the business with the Registrar of Companies and obtain tax registration with the Revenue Management Division. Declined BTIB applicants have 21 days to appeal to the responsible Minister.