The New Zealand Government has announced a significant new visa category, the Parent Boost Visa, set to open for applications on 29 September 2025. This initiative is a major step toward reuniting migrant families and offering long-term flexibility for parents of New Zealand citizens and residents.
At IR Legal, we welcome this long-awaited visa as a meaningful change to New Zealand’s immigration landscape, especially for families that have been separated due to tight parent visa quotas and long wait times. With over 24 years of immigration law experience, we are well-positioned to guide you or your loved ones through the entire application process from eligibility assessment to final submission and compliance.
With clients across Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Hamilton, Dunedin, and beyond, we know how important family connection is for migrants who’ve built their lives in New Zealand.
What is the Parent Boost Visa?
The Parent Boost Visa is a multi-entry, long-term visitor visa that allows parents of New Zealand citizens or residents to stay in New Zealand for up to 5 years. It is designed as a more accessible alternative to traditional parent residence visas, with less stringent residency obligations, while still ensuring that visa holders are self-sufficient and supported.
Unlike the parent residence visa, which has limited spots and high financial thresholds, the Parent Boost Visa offers greater flexibility, faster processing, and ongoing connection with family without the burden of permanent settlement conditions.
Key Features and Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Parent Boost Visa, both the applicant and their sponsor must meet specific health, character, financial, and sponsorship requirements.
- Sponsorship
- The applicant must be sponsored by a New Zealand citizen or resident.
- Sponsors must earn at least the median wage (currently around NZD $61,000 annually).
- If there are joint sponsors (e.g. both adult children), they must collectively earn at least 1.5x the median wage.
Tip: Proof of income is key. This may include payslips, employment contracts, and tax summaries.
- Health and Character Requirements
- All applicants must undergo a medical examination and meet the required health standards set by Immigration New Zealand.
- Applicants must also meet good character requirements and may need to provide police certificates from countries they’ve lived in for 12 months or more over the last 10 years.
- Health Insurance
- Applicants must hold and maintain comprehensive medical insurance for the entire duration of their stay in New Zealand.
- The policy must cover hospitalisation, specialist visits, and pre-existing conditions.
Note: This insurance is essential not just for visa approval, but also for protecting the applicant and reducing strain on NZ’s public healthcare system.
- Financial Requirements
- While this is not a residence visa, applicants must still demonstrate financial self-sufficiency.
- This includes access to personal savings, pensions, or income equivalent to New Zealand Superannuation rates.
- The visa does not allow parents to work in New Zealand, so passive income or support is critical.
When Can You Apply?
- Applications officially open on 29 September 2025.
There is likely to be strong demand, especially given the popularity of previous parent visa categories, so we recommend preparing your documentation well in advance.
IR Legal can help you assess your eligibility, prepare all required documents, liaise with sponsors, and lodge a complete application that meets all criteria.
Why Choose IR Legal for Your Parent Boost Visa?
With more than two decades of experience in immigration law, we’ve successfully helped thousands of clients across New Zealand and Australia navigate complex visa systems. Our team understands that immigration is not just about legal status, it’s about people, families, and futures.
We offer:
- Expert legal advice on eligibility, documentation, and risks
- Strategic guidance on sponsor eligibility and financial planning
- Comprehensive application support from start to finish
- Clear communication throughout the process
Ready to Reunite with Your Loved Ones?
Don’t leave your Parent Boost Visa application to chance. Whether you’re a parent hoping to stay longer in New Zealand or a child wanting to bring your parents closer, IR Legal is here to help make it happen confidently, legally, and compassionately.
📞 Book a consultation today to discuss your eligibility and next steps.
🌐 Visit us at www.irlegal.lawyer
📧 Or email us at office@irlegal.lawyer
