Indians in New Zealand can now host parents for 10 years under new visa rule

India Today

5 hours ago

The New Zealand government has announced a new long-stay visa option for parents of citizens and residents, called the Parent Boost Visa, which allows eligible parents to stay in the country for up to 10 years. The visa, set to open for applications from September 29, 2025, is a multiple-entry visitor visa, not a pathway to permanent residence.Under this scheme, parents can initially stay for up to five years. A second application may extend their stay by another five years, provided all conditions are met.advertisementUnlike residency visas, this visitor visa does not provide permanent settlement rights, and holders must leave New Zealand before the visa expires. Overstaying the visa will make them liable for deportation.WHY THIS MATTERS TO INDIANS
New Zealand is home to a significant Indian diaspora, many of whom are citizens or permanent residents. Until now, parents could only visit under limited short-term visas.The new Parent Boost Visa gives Indian parents a chance to spend extended time with their children and grandchildren — without the need for frequent visa renewals.It also provides flexibility and peace of mind for families looking to stay connected across continents, especially during key life events like births, festivals, and medical needs.WHO CAN APPLY?1. Indian Parents of NZ Citizens or ResidentsIf your son or daughter is a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand, you may be eligible to apply. Adopted children are also included under the sponsorship rules.advertisement2. Good Health and CharacterApplicants from India must pass standard health and background checks. Two medical checks are required — one during the first visa application and another in the third year, which must be completed outside New Zealand.3. No English RequirementUnlike many visa routes, this one does not require proof of English language skills — a key advantage for elderly parents from non-English speaking backgrounds.SPONSORSHIP AND FINANCIAL REQUIREMENTSIndian families in New Zealand must show they earn at least the median wage to sponsor one parent (more if sponsoring jointly or multiple parents).Alternatively, parents can apply if they have personal income equal to New Zealand Superannuation (around NZD $32,600 per year for individuals).A savings route is also available -- applicants must show NZD $160,000 (single) or NZD $250,000 (couple) in personal funds.Parents must carry comprehensive health insurance throughout their stay. This must cover emergency medical costs, cancer treatment, and repatriation.Visa holders can't take up jobs in New Zealand but may study for up to three months a year or do remote work for offshore employers. Any income may trigger tax obligations.WHAT MAKES IT BETTER?Compared to the existing Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa, which allows a maximum of 18 months over three years, the Parent Boost Visa offers a continuous five-year stay with the option to extend -- making it ideal for elderly Indian parents needing long-term support or companionship.Indian citizens currently holding another parent visa can apply for the Parent Boost Visa -- but will only hold one visa at a time.