Applications open on September 29, 2025, according to the official announcement.

Visa Duration & Renewal

Initial validity: 5 years with multiple-entry allowed.

Renewal: Once the first 5-year visa expires, it can be renewed for another 5 years.

Maximum stay: A total of up to 10 years cumulatively.

Financial & Sponsorship Requirements

Applicants must meet one of the following conditions, sponsored by their New Zealand resident or citizen child:

Sponsor’s income:

If sponsoring one parent: at least the median income (currently NZD 33.56/hour).

If two sponsors: combined income must reach 1.5× the median.

If sponsoring two parents: additional 0.5× median requirement applies.

Applicant’s savings:

Single parent: minimum NZD 160,000 in savings.

Couple: minimum NZD 250,000 in savings.

Applicant’s income:

Single applicant: at least NZD 32,611.38 annually.

Couple: at least NZD 49,522.88 annually (combined).

Health & Insurance Requirements

Health insurance: Must provide at least one-year coverage and maintain it during their stay in New Zealand. Insurance needs to provide emergency medical cover (of at least up to $250,000), repatriation, return of remains and cancer treatment (of at least $100,000).

Health check: A medical exam is required before entry and again in the third year of their stay.

Ongoing robust health compliance is necessary to retain visa validity.

Estimated Fees

Visa application fee: ~NZD 3,000, or $2,450 for eligible Pacific. ($100 for International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy applies).

Third year medical/insurance update: Approximately NZD 325, or $240 for eligible Pacific.

Summary

This visa is specifically designed to meet the family reunification needs of immigrant families, enabling extended stays for parents. The plan has reportedly been included in Cabinet agendas for the second quarter of 2025.

Tips for Applicants

Watch for official updates as policy details may still change.

Prepare documentation in advance: sponsor income proofs, medical check results, insurance policies, and savings records.

Being among the first applicants can be an advantage.

Professional immigration advice may help streamline the application.