Applicant must be a "fit and proper person", and never have been investigated by the Serious Fraud Office or the NZ police related to business dealings. No convictions for an offence involving dishonesty. No involvement in business fraud or financial impropriety.

Applicant must meet a minimum standard of English.

Applicant must have a current Entrepreneur Work Visa if they have been self-employed for less than two years. People self-employed for more than 2 years must hold a visa allowing self-employment and meet the requirements of the Entrepreneur Work Visa.

Applicant must have either set-up or purchased at least 25% of the shareholding in a New Zealand business and have been running that business for at least 6 months

The business must have realised the benefits outlined in the business plan

The business must be profitable and contributing to New Zealand's economic growth

The business must be legally compliant and the applicant must not have received any welfare benefits or assistance

At least as much capital must have been invested into the business as outlined in the business plan

A partner and/or dependent child(ren) may be included in the application

The applicants must meet health and character requirements