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      New Zealand has introduced the Parent Boost Visitor Visa, enabling eligible parents of New Zealand citizens and residents to stay in the country for up to five years, with the possibility of renewal for an additional five years.1

      WHY THIS MATTERS

      The Parent Boost Visitor Visa provides a significant opportunity for mobile families to reunite for extended periods without pursuing permanent residency.  For HR leaders and global mobility managers, this development may impact workforce planning, particularly for employees seeking to sponsor their parents for long-term visits.  

      The visa’s requirements for sponsorship, insurance, certain evidentiary documentation, and financial support introduce new compliance considerations and administrative procedures. 

      Key Highlights

      Visa Duration and Renewal

      • Allows eligible parents to stay for up to five years, with the option to renew for an additional five years (maximum total ten years).
      • Parents may leave and re-enter New Zealand freely during the visa period.

      Eligibility and Application

      • Applicants must be outside New Zealand when applying and when the visa is granted.
      • Must be sponsored by an adult child who is a New Zealand citizen or resident.
      • Demonstrate genuine visitor intent and retain links with the home country.
      • No dependent children permitted on the application.

      Health and Insurance Requirements

      • Applicants must meet acceptable health standards; medical waivers are not allowed.
      • Insurance must be maintained for the entire stay; evidence required up-front and during mid-visa compliance checks.
      • Minimum insurance coverage details:  

      Coverage Type

      Minimum Amount (in NZD)

      Emergency medical care

      $250,000 a year

      Cancer treatment

      $100,000 a year

      Repatriation

      $250,000

      Return of remains

      $50,000

      Source: KPMG in New Zealand

      Financial Support

      • Applicants must meet financial self-sufficiency requirements via sponsor’s income, parent’s income, or available funds.
      • Borrowed or gifted money cannot be used; funds must genuinely belong to the parents.

      Sponsorship

      • Sponsorship by adult children (aged 18+) who are New Zealand citizens or residents is required.
      • Joint sponsorship is permitted among siblings and partners.

      Compliance Checks

      After three years (but before four), visa holders must complete a compliance check, including health and insurance verification. 

      KPMG INSIGHTS

      In light of the change, entities and organisations affected by this update may wish to consider the following:

      • Organisations may wish to check in with employees planning to sponsor parents and make sure they are aware of the application process, sponsorship responsibilities, and the need for continuous health insurance and financial documentation.
      • The companies may wish to review policies regarding family support for assignees and provide guidance on compliance to mitigate risk of visa cancellation or deportation.

      If assignees and/or their programme managers have any questions or concerns about this new visa programme its requirements and individuals’ eligibility, and appropriate next steps, they should consult with their qualified immigration adviser or a member of the immigration team with KPMG in New Zealand (see the Contacts section).

      FOOTNOTE:

      1  Immigration New Zealand (INZ), “New Parent Boost Visitor Visa Is Now Open,” published on 02 October 2025.

      Contacts

      Georgina Haines
      Georgina Haines

      Senior Manager

      KPMG Australia

      maria-hrambanis
      Maria Hrambanis

      Director

      KPMG Australia

      Caroline Hickson
      Caroline Hickson

      Principal Director, Global Mobility

      KPMG Australia

      More Information

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      Disclaimer

      * Please note the KPMG International member firm in the United States does not provide immigration or labour law services. However, KPMG Law LLP in Canada can assist clients with U.S. immigration matters.

      **Please note also that the KPMG International member firm in Australia is currently providing New Zealand immigration services.

      The information contained in this newsletter was submitted by the KPMG International member firm in Australia.

      GMS Flash Alert is a Global Mobility Services publication of the KPMG LLP Washington National Tax practice. The KPMG name and logo are trademarks used under license by the independent member firms of the KPMG global organization. KPMG International Limited is a private English company limited by guarantee and does not provide services to clients. No member firm has any authority to obligate or bind KPMG International or any other member firm vis-à-vis third parties, nor does KPMG International have any such authority to obligate or bind any member firm. The information contained herein is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavor to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No one should act on such information without appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of the particular situation.

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