NZ Parent Visa: Guide for Parents and Grandparents

Key Takeaways:

The New Zealand Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa allows extended visits to New Zealand for up to three years.
Eligibility includes good health, a clean criminal record, genuine intentions, sponsorship, and coverage of healthcare costs.
Application involves completing forms, providing documentation, paying fees, and submitting online or in person. Processing time is approximately 65 days.

What is the New Zealand Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa?

The New Zealand Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa enables parents and grandparents to visit their family members in New Zealand for an extended period. This visa allows multiple entries and re-entries into New Zealand within its validity period. Visa holders can stay for up to three years and can even bring their partners along with a similar Parent and Grandparent Visitor visa.

NZ Parent Visa: Guide for Parents and Grandparents

Who is Eligible for the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa?

To qualify for the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa, you must meet certain eligibility requirements:

Good Health: You must be in good health, which is typically verified through a medical examination and a chest X-ray.
Good Character: You must have a clean criminal record.
Genuine Intentions: You should have a genuine intention of visiting New Zealand, primarily to see your children or grandchildren.
Sponsorship: You need to be sponsored by your child, grandchild, or their parent.
Healthcare Costs: You must be able to cover your healthcare costs while in New Zealand.

Who Can Sponsor Me for the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa?

Your sponsor must be your child, grandchild, or their New Zealand parent, who should meet the following criteria:

Be a citizen or resident of New Zealand.
Be 18 years or older.
Meet the requirements for acceptable sponsors.
Not sponsoring any other individuals simultaneously.

What Documents Are Required for the Application?

The application for the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa demands meticulous preparation of several key documents:

Proof of Identity: A valid passport or certificate of identity, and acceptable photos as per NZ visa photo requirements.
Proof of Good Health: A chest X-ray and medical examination are required unless you’ve submitted these tests within the last 36 months.
Proof of Good Character: A police certificate may be required, especially if you have spent more than six months in New Zealand.
Proof of Genuine Intentions: Documentation such as a recent travel history, work, living arrangements, and proof that you’re visiting your family in New Zealand.
Proof of Sponsorship: Your sponsor must complete a ‘Sponsorship Form for Temporary Entry’ and provide supporting documents, including a New Zealand passport or resident visa.
Proof of Relationship: Documents like birth certificates, adoption papers, or household registration documents proving your relationship to your sponsor.
Healthcare Declaration: A declaration that you will cover your healthcare costs while in New Zealand.

How to Apply Online for the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa?

Applying online for the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa involves several steps:

Complete the Online Application: Visit the Parent and Grandparent Visitor visa page and click on ‘APPLY NOW’. Log in or create a RealMe account and provide the necessary details.
Upload Required Documents: All documents must be in PDF format and not exceed 10MB. Photos must adhere to NZ visa photo requirements.
Pay Application Fees: Use a Visa or MasterCard to pay the Immigration Cost, VAC Service Fee, and (if applicable) courier fee.
Submit the Application: Submit your application at least four months prior to your intended travel date to account for any medical or processing delays.

How to Apply in Person for the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa?

The in-person application process involves several detailed steps:

Complete the Paper Application Form: Print and fill out the Visitor Visa Application form available on the New Zealand immigration website.
Submit Documents at the Nearest Visa Application Center: Find your nearest Visa Application Center (VAC) and book an appointment. Ensure you have the appointment confirmation, booking details, and payment methods.
Attend the Appointment: Pay the required fees, submit documents, and provide biometrics (if applicable).

What is the Processing Time for the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa?

Typically, the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa takes about 65 days to process. Approximately 90% of the applications are completed within this timeframe.

How Long is the Visa Valid For?

This visa is valid for three years. You can stay for up to six months at a time but cannot exceed a total stay of 18 months within the three-year validity period.

What Are the Fees for the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa?

The fees for this visa vary based on the application method and your country of residence:

Online Applications: NZD $125 — $245
Paper Applications: NZD $235 — $280; Visa Center Fee: NZD $49 — $80; Courier Fee: NZD $8 — $187

Check the complete list of New Zealand Visa Fees Information Here

What Conditions Must You Meet for the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa?

To maintain the validity of your Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa, adhere to the following conditions:

Entry Permission: Upon each entry, present your passport, a return ticket, and a completed Passenger Arrival card.
Visa Validity: You can enter and leave New Zealand multiple times for up to three years.
Sponsorship: Maintain a relationship with your sponsor.
Employment: You are not permitted to work in New Zealand under this visa category.

Can I Work With the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa?

Employment is not allowed under the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa. If you wish to work, you must apply for a Work Visa.

Can I Bring My Family With Me on This Visa?

You can bring only your partner. Your children will need to apply for their own respective visas if they want to visit New Zealand. Your partner should meet the requirements outlined by New Zealand’s immigration policies and must be in a legal marriage, civil union, or de facto relationship with you.

What Happens if I Cannot Pay for Healthcare Costs?

You are responsible for your healthcare costs while in New Zealand. If you are unable to cover these costs, your sponsor must cover them. It is advisable to have comprehensive health insurance for the duration of your stay.

How Do I Ensure a Successful Application?

Ensure that all documents are provided, accurately filled out, and submitted within the stipulated time frame. Following the application guidelines minutely increases the chances of a successful outcome. Always check the latest updates on the official Immigration New Zealand website.

By meeting all eligibility requirements, following the application process carefully, and providing all necessary documentation, you can successfully obtain the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa to enjoy precious moments with your loved ones in New Zealand.

Learn Today:

Glossary of Immigration Terms

Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa: A visa that allows parents and grandparents to visit their family members in New Zealand for an extended period, enabling multiple entries and re-entries and stays of up to three years.
Sponsorship: The act of a New Zealand citizen or resident formally agreeing to support the visa applicant, covering any costs associated with their stay in New Zealand, including healthcare costs.
Good Health: A requirement for visa applicants to ensure they are free from significant health issues, typically proven through medical examinations and chest X-rays.
Good Character: A criterion that visa applicants must meet, involving the absence of a criminal record and providing police certificates if necessary.
RealMe Account: An online identity verification service used in New Zealand to access various government services, including visa applications. Users must create or log in to a RealMe account to apply for visas online.

This Article In A Nutshell:

The New Zealand Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa lets parents and grandparents visit family in New Zealand for up to three years. It allows multiple entries and requires sponsorship by a New Zealand resident or citizen. Applicants need to meet health, character, and financial requirements to qualify.
— By VisaVerge.com

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