The New Zealand government has announced a new long-term visitor visa, known as the “Parent Boost” visa, which will allow parents of foreign skilled workers to stay in the country for up to 10 years. This move purposes to unite families and improve New Zealand’s appeal to highly skilled migrants.
Features of the Parent Boost Visa
- Multiple-Entry Access: The Parent Boost Visa grants multiple-entry access for up to 5 years, with the option to apply for a second visa for an additional 5 years, totaling 10 years.
- Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must meet specific health, income, and insurance requirements, including:
- At least one year of health insurance coverage with emergency medical coverage of at least NZD $250,000.
- Two health assessments: one as part of the initial visa application and another in the third year of the visa.
- Proof of valid health insurance while visiting New Zealand.
- Income Requirements: One of the following income requirements must be met:
- The sponsor must earn the median wage to sponsor one parent, or joint sponsors must earn 1.5x the median wage.
- The parent must have an ongoing income aligning with the single rate of New Zealand Superannuation for a single parent and the couple rate for a couple.
- The parent must have available funds of $160,000 for a single parent and $250,000 for a couple to support themselves for the duration of their visa.
- Cost: The visa costs NZD $3,000 for most applicants and NZD $2,450 for applicants eligible for the Pacific fee band, including both the immigration fee and levy.
Benefits and Limitations
- Family Reunification: The Parent Boost Visa allows skilled foreign workers to reunite with their parents and live with them in New Zealand.
- Not a Way to Residence: The Parent Boost Visa is not a way to permanent residency, but it does offer a meaningful way for families to spend time together over the long term.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: After holding the Parent Boost Visa for at least 10 years in a row, applicants can apply for permanent residence through the Parent Resident Visa.
Other Visa Options
- Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa: A temporary visa option for parents and grandparents.
- Visitor Visa: A temporary visa option for parents.
- Parent Resident Visa: A permanent residency visa option, capped at 2,500 places annually.
- Parent Retirement Resident Visa: A permanent residency visa option for parents.
Applications and Timeline
Parent Boost visa applications will open on September 29, 2025. This new visa option is expected to improve New Zealand’s appeal to highly skilled migrants and provide a way for families to spend time together.
