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New Zealand launches 10‑year parent visa—a long-awaited step for families who want to stay close, even across borders. This new visa is a game-changer for skilled migrants in New Zealand who wish to bring their parents for a longer and more stable visit.

Earlier, parents of migrants could only visit for short periods, usually just six months at a time. Many families were forced to apply for new visas again and again, causing stress, uncertainty, and extra costs. Now, the New Zealand government is making a big change to fix that.

What is the 10-Year Parent Visa?

When we say New Zealand launches 10‑year parent visa, it means the country is offering a new long-term visa for parents of migrants. This visa allows parents to stay in New Zealand for up to 10 years, with a multiple-entry option. Parents can come and go during the visa period, but they must meet certain conditions to qualify.

The visa is split into two parts: the first stay is for 5 years, and then, if all conditions are met, the parents can apply for another 5 years—making it a total of 10 years.

This is a visitor visa, which means parents won’t become permanent residents through this visa. However, it allows them to live with their children in New Zealand for long periods, which was not possible before.

Why is This Visa Important?

This change shows that New Zealand understands the importance of family connections. Many skilled migrants have moved to New Zealand to work and build a better life. But their parents, who live in other countries, often miss out on watching their children grow, get married, or have kids of their own.

Now, as New Zealand launches 10‑year parent visa, it becomes easier for families to stay together. Parents can spend time with their grandchildren, celebrate festivals and important life events, and be there during difficult times.

Also, this new visa makes New Zealand more attractive to skilled workers, because they know their families can visit and stay longer. This helps the country grow its economy and build strong communities.

Who Can Apply for This Visa?

To be eligible for the new visa:

• The parent must have a child who is a New Zealand citizen or resident.
  
• The child (sponsor) must meet income requirements and agree to support the parent during their stay.
  
• The parent must have private health insurance that covers medical costs while in New Zealand.
  
• The parent must be of good character and health.
  
• The parent must agree to leave New Zealand for a short period after five years to apply for the second term.
  

These conditions make sure that the visitor does not become a burden on the country’s health or social system.

Financial and Health Requirements

To support their parent’s visa application, the sponsor must earn enough money. The income level is based on the median wage in New Zealand. If more than one parent is applying, the income requirement increases.

Parents must also buy health insurance that covers:

• Emergency treatment
  
• Repatriation (returning to their home country if needed)
  
• Major illness like cancer
  

In the third year, parents will need to leave New Zealand temporarily, complete a health check, and confirm that their health insurance is still valid. After that, they can apply for another 5-year term.

When Will the Visa Be Available?

The announcement that New Zealand launches 10‑year parent visa was made in June 2025. Applications for this visa will officially open on September 29, 2025. Interested families should start preparing their documents early to avoid any delays.

How to Apply

1. The child (sponsor) checks if they meet the income requirement.
   
2. The parent arranges for the required health insurance.
   
3. Prepare character and medical documents.
   
4. Wait until the application period opens on September 29, 2025.
   
5. Submit the application online through Immigration New Zealand.
   
6. Once approved, parents can travel to New Zealand and stay for up to 5 years.
   
7. Before the end of 5 years, the parent leaves the country for a short time, does another health check, and reapplies for the second 5-year term.

Don’t Forget About NZeTA

While this visa is a special visitor visa, many travelers still need to check if they require an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority). Before your parents travel, it’s important to check their NZeTA Visa Status. In most cases, they’ll need to Submit NZeTA Online before boarding a flight to New Zealand.

This process is quick and easy but must be completed before travel. Not having an approved NZeTA can cause delays or prevent entry.

How is This Visa Different?

Let’s understand the difference this visa makes:

Visa Type	Max Stay	Re-Entry	Leads to Residency
Regular Visitor Visa	6 months	Yes	No
3-Year Multiple Entry	Up to 18 months in 3 years	Yes	No
10-Year Parent Visa	10 years (5+5)	Yes	No

This clearly shows that when New Zealand launches 10‑year parent visa, it creates a new level of convenience, freedom, and stability for parents and their families.

Final Thoughts

The fact that New Zealand launches 10‑year parent visa is more than just an immigration policy update—it’s a message to migrants that family matters. It shows the country values the emotional and cultural connection between parents and their children.

If you are a skilled worker living in New Zealand, now is the time to plan. Make sure you understand the income and health insurance requirements, and start preparing the needed documents. And don’t forget to check your NZeTA Visa Status and Submit NZeTA Online in case it’s needed for travel.

This visa will not only make life easier for families—it will also help New Zealand grow as a welcoming and skilled society where people can live, work, and be close to their loved ones.