Parents boost visa: What We Know So Far
New Zealand is preparing to roll out the Parent Boost Visa in 2025, a long-awaited option for parents wanting to spend extended time with their children in New Zealand. While details are still emerging, this visa is expected to provide a five-year renewable stay for eligible parents.
So, what does this mean for families looking to reunite in New Zealand? Here’s what we know so far and how you can prepare.
What is the Parent Boost Visa?
The Parent Boost Visa is expected to allow parents of New Zealand residents or citizens to stay in the country for up to five years, with the possibility of extending their stay for another five years upon renewal. While the exact conditions have not been confirmed, it is anticipated that applicants will need to meet health, character, and financial requirements, similar to other long-term visas.
While this visa does not lead directly to residency, it provides a long-term stay solution for parents who do not meet the criteria for a residence visa under existing Parent Category pathways.
How is This Different from the Parent Category Visa?
If you’re considering bringing your parents to New Zealand, you may have come across two existing pathways for parents seeking residency:
Parent Category Visa – A residence visa requiring the NZ-based sponsor to meet a minimum income threshold. Recent changes have increased the income requirements, making it more difficult for some families to qualify.
Parent Retirement Resident Visa – For parents who can invest NZD $1 million over four years and meet other financial conditions.
Unlike these options, the Parent Boost Visa is not a residence visa but instead offers a temporary yet long-term stay.
Current Alternatives While Waiting for the Parent Boost Visa
If your parents are eager to visit New Zealand before the Parent Boost Visa becomes available, they can apply for a Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa. This visa allows:
Multiple entries over 3 years
A stay of up to 6 months at a time
A total of 18 months in New Zealand within those 3 years
For many families, this remains a great short-term option while waiting for more details on the Parent Boost Visa.
What Should You Do Now?
Although the full criteria for the Parent Boost Visa are yet to be released, you can start preparing by:
Ensuring your parents meet expected health and financial requirements
Exploring alternative visa options in the meantime
Consulting a licensed immigration adviser to help navigate the best pathway for your family
As soon as Immigration New Zealand releases further details on eligibility, application steps, and conditions, we will update you!
Need Immigration Advice?
If you're looking to bring your parents to New Zealand, now is the time to explore your options. Get in touch with us today to discuss the best visa pathway for your family.
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