New Zealand is set to launch a new long-term visa aimed at strengthening family ties for migrants. The Parent Boost Visa, which takes effect from 29 September 2025, will allow parents and grandparents of New Zealand citizens and residents to stay in the country for up to 10 years, with an initial five-year period and the possibility of a five-year extension upon renewal, provided they continue to meet all requirements..
Applicants must be sponsored by their children or grandchildren and are required to have health insurance for the duration of their stay. Importantly, the visa does not confer eligibility for New Zealand Superannuation or other entitlements, ensuring that the scheme remains fiscally sustainable
Designed as a multiple-entry visitor visa, the Parent Boost Visa aims to support skilled migrant workers by allowing their parents to join them for extended periods. However, the visa does not offer a direct path to permanent residency. Those seeking to become residents must still apply under existing categories such as the Parent Resident Visa or the Parent Retirement Resident Visa.
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Key Eligibility Requirements:
Sponsorship by a New Zealand citizen or resident.
Comprehensive health insurance for a minimum of one year, covering emergency care up to NZD $250,000.
Two health assessments: one during the application process and another outside New Zealand in the third year of stay.
Proof of continuous insurance coverage throughout the visa duration.
Financial Requirements:
Applicants must meet one of the following financial criteria:
The sponsor earns at least the median wage (for one parent) or 1.5 times the median wage (for two parents).
The parent(s) have a steady income that meets the New Zealand Superannuation rate.
The parent(s) hold savings of at least NZD $160,000 for a single applicant or NZD $250,000 for a couple.
Visa Fees:
Standard application fee: NZD $3,000 (including immigration fees and levy).
Pacific fee band applicants: NZD $2,450.
International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL): NZD $100.
Health reassessment after three years: NZD $325 (or NZD $240 for Pacific applicants).
By offering significantly longer stays than traditional visitor visas, the Parent Boost Visa enables migrants to care for their ageing parents, maintain closer family bonds, and contribute to a more stable family life in New Zealand.
This visa complements other options currently available to parents and grandparents of migrants, including short-term visitor visas and residency pathways with limited annual quotas.