A Boost for Parents— but the help of advisers will be needed
The Government has announced a new long-term visitor visa for parents of migrants: the Parent Boost Visa. Designed for New Zealand citizens and residents who want their parents to spend extended time with them, the visa offers a five-year stay, renewable once, for a total of up to 10 years.
This is a multi-entry visa—not a pathway to residence - a key feature of the policy for the coalition government. But for families who meet the eligibility criteria, it creates an opportunity for long-term connection even if permanent migration is not permitted.
The Essentials
Opens: 29 September 2025
Length: Five years, with a one-time renewal
Type: Visitor visa (not residence)
Cost: NZ$3,000 standard fee; NZ$2,450 under Pacific category; plus NZ$100 levy
Processing time: ~4 months
Applicants must be sponsored by their child in New Zealand, meet health and character requirements, and have sufficient health insurance and financial support in place.
Financial Requirements (Quickly)
Applicants must meet one of three financial tests: a sponsor income test, a parent income test, or a parent asset test. These thresholds are defined and non-trivial, but for now, let’s focus on the less obvious barrier—insurance.
Insurance: Where Most Applications Will Need Work
To qualify, visa holders must hold private health insurance that meets the following thresholds:
Emergency care: NZ$250,000 per year
Cancer treatment: NZ$100,000
Repatriation and return of remains
Many standard travel or visitor policies don’t meet these requirements—especially for cancer cover. Even some base-level domestic private medical plans limit oncology to below the threshold required and may not be available to non-residents.
Applicants will often need to select a specialist product, or purchase an add-on or top-up benefit to get over the required limits, particularly for oncology care.
Insurer nib has already confirmed it intends to offer a compliant policy. Others may follow, but at present, advisers should assume tailored cover will be needed—and should expect to guide clients through the details.
Health Monitoring
A full health screening is required before arrival—and again in year three, conducted offshore. The visa is dependent on continued good health and valid insurance. If either lapses, the visa can be revoked.
How financial advisers can help
Insurance advisers could offer a service for clients who have parents living overseas. This is an opportunity to help them navigate the requirements:
Understand the coverage thresholds, suitable products, and arrange cover
Know which products (or combinations) can satisfy the criteria
A well-prepared insurance strategy will be a key enabler for this visa. Clients may need more than a policy—they’ll need advice, support, and a degree of coordination.
More details can be found here: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/about-us/news-centre/new-parent-boost-visitor-visa-to-strengthen-family-connections/