Opened on 29 September 2025, the Parent Boost Visitor Visa offers a 5-year multiple-entry visa, renewable for another five years, making it ideal for parents wanting long-term involvement in their family’s lives.  To be eligible, parents must be sponsored by their New Zealand citizen or resident child and meet the necessary financial and health insurance requirements.  These financial requirements can be met either by the sponsor meeting an income threshold or by the parents having their own sufficient funds or income.

A key requirement is holding medical insurance with at least $250,000 in annual cover for emergency care. A health check is also required after three years.  While this visa does not provide a pathway to residence, it is a suitable option for families who prioritise flexibility over permanent settlement.

For parents who prefer shorter, more frequent trips rather than a long-term stay, the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa is a more suitable option.  This multiple-entry visa allows stays of up to six months at a time (for a total of 18 months over three years), making it suitable for visiting during important family events.  A general visitor visa, which has fewer requirements, is another alternative for shorter family visits.

For parents seeking permanent residence, the Parent Resident Visa is an option, but it comes with important caveats.  As a sponsor, the child makes a 10-year legal commitment to provide accommodation and financial support, and they are responsible if their parents access public services.  It’s also important to know that Parent Resident Visa applications are subject to a ballot system. Due to high demand, even if you meet all requirements, your application is entered into a lottery, with no guarantee of selection.  The final option is the Parent Retirement Resident Visa, which enables parents to gain permanent residence after investing $1 million in New Zealand for four years, provided all other requirements are met.

Choosing the right visa is a significant decision, carrying long-term financial and legal commitments for you as the sponsor. Each option has a unique set of requirements, including details not covered in this summary, that must be carefully weighed against your family’s goals.  To ensure you select the best path for your family and fully understand your obligations, we recommend seeking professional legal advice.  Contact our firm to discuss your specific circumstances.