New Zealand 10 Year Parent Visa
New Zealand has introduced a 10-Year Parent Visa in 2025, allowing migrants to sponsor their parents for extended stays. Unlike the previous Parent Resident Visa (which had strict quotas), this new visa provides longer validity and more flexibility.
This guide explains:
✔ Eligibility criteria for sponsors & parents
✔ Financial requirements (minimum income)
✔ Step-by-step application process
✔ Visa conditions & benefits
✔ Common reasons for rejection & how to avoid them
1. What Is the 10-Year Parent Visa?
Key Features
✅ Allows multiple entries over 10 years (max 6 months per visit).
✅ Does not lead to residency (non-resident visa).
✅ Must meet health & character requirements.
✅ Sponsor (child in NZ) must meet income thresholds.
Who Is Eligible?
- Parents of NZ citizens, permanent residents, or eligible work visa holders.
- Sponsors (children) must be settled in NZ (living there for 3+ years).
2. Financial Requirements for Sponsors (2025 Updates)
Minimum Income Thresholds
The sponsor (child in NZ) must prove stable income:
| Sponsor’s Family Size | Minimum Annual Income (NZD) |
|---|---|
| Sponsor only | $65,000 |
| Sponsor + 1 parent | $90,000 |
| Sponsor + 2 parents | $115,000 |
Note: Income can be from salary, investments, or partner’s earnings.
Acceptable Proof of Income
✔ Payslips (last 6–12 months)
✔ Employment contract
✔ IRD tax returns
✔ Bank statements
3. Application Process
1: Check Eligibility
- Ensure the sponsor meets income & residency requirements.
- Parents must pass health & character checks.
2: Gather Documents
For Parents:
✔ Passport (valid for 3+ years)
✔ Medical certificate (INZ 1007 form)
✔ Police clearance certificate
✔ Proof of relationship (birth certificates)
For Sponsor (Child in NZ):
✔ Proof of income (IRD, payslips)
✔ NZ residency/citizenship proof
✔ Accommodation proof (tenancy agreement or property deed)
3: Submit Online Application
- Apply via Immigration NZ (INZ) portal.
- Pay visa fee: NZD $1,250–$1,800 (depends on processing speed).
4: Wait for Approval
- Processing time: 6–12 months (varies by case).
- Outcome: Visa granted or additional documents requested.
4. Visa Conditions & Limitations
What Parents Can Do
✔ Stay up to 6 months per visit.
✔ Enter NZ multiple times over 10 years.
✔ Access public healthcare (if eligible).
Restrictions
❌ No work rights (cannot take employment).
❌ No pathway to residency (must leave after each stay).
5. Common Reasons for Rejection & How to Avoid Them
1. Insufficient Sponsor Income
- Solution: Include partner’s income or savings.
2. Failed Health Checks
- Solution: Treat pre-existing conditions before applying.
3. Incomplete Relationship Proof
- Solution: Submit attested birth certificates.
4. Criminal Record Issues
- Solution: Provide police clearance & explanation letter.
6. FAQs About New Zealand 10 Year Parent Visa
1. Can parents apply for residency later?
No, this visa does not lead to PR. They must apply separately under the Parent Resident Visa (if eligible).
2. Can parents stay continuously for 10 years?
No, max 6 months per visit (must leave before re-entering).
3. Can the sponsor be on a work visa?
Yes, if they meet income & residency requirements.
4. Is private health insurance required?
Recommended, as public healthcare access may be limited.
5. Can siblings be included?
No, only biological/adoptive parents qualify.
7. Comparing NZ’s Parent Visa Options
| Visa Type | 10-Year Parent Visa | Parent Resident Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Validity | 10 years (multiple entries) | Permanent residency |
| Stay Duration | 6 months per visit | Unlimited |
| Income Requirement | $65,000+ | $90,000+ |
| Processing Time | 6–12 months | 24+ months |
| Work Rights | No | Yes |
8. Tips for a Successful Application
✔ Apply early (processing delays are common).
✔ Double-check financial documents.
✔ Use an immigration advisor if case is complex.
✔ Keep travel plans flexible (visa may take longer).
9. Conclusion
New Zealand’s 10-Year Parent Visa is ideal for migrants who want to bring their parents for extended (but temporary) stays. While it doesn’t offer residency, it provides multiple entries over a decade, making family reunions easier.
Key Takeaways:
✅ Sponsor must earn ≥ NZD $65,000/year.
✅ Parents can stay 6 months per visit.
✅ No work rights or residency pathway.
Ready to Apply? Start your application here:
🔗 Immigration NZ Parent Visa Page
Have questions? Ask below!
Further Reading:
Written by Asif, an experienced researcher helping People’s to navigate visas and work abroad opportunities.
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