Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa
The Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa enables parents or grandparents of New Zealand citizens or residents to visit and stay in New Zealand for extended, multipleentry visits. It is designed for family reunion rather than permanent migration.
It is suitable for individuals who:​
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Have a child or grandchild who is a New Zealand citizen or resident
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Live outside New Zealand at the time of application
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Intend to visit their family temporarily and maintain ties abroad
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Meet health, character and sponsorship requirements​
Eligibility Requirements
1. Sponsorship
A sponsoring child, grandchild or the parent of your child/grandchild must:
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Be a New Zealand citizen or resident
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Provide certified proof of status (passport, citizenship certificate or resident visa)
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Be your child or grandchild (or, if applicant is grandparent, their parent may sponsor)
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Agree to take on sponsorship responsibilities including accommodation, support and repatriation if required
2. Stay Duration
This visa allows you to stay in New Zealand for up to 6 months at a time, with a total allowable stay of up to 18 months over a 3-year period. You may travel in and out of New Zealand during this period.
Requirements You Must Meet
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Live outside New Zealand when you apply
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Intend to visit and stay temporarily — not to permanently settle
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Good health and good character (medical examination, chest X-ray, police certificates may apply)
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Agree to pay for your own health care or have appropriate cover while in New Zealand
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You must not have been granted a Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa in the past 36 months
Process
Confirm your eligibility and sponsorship match the requirements
Gather necessary documents: child/grandchild status, relationship proofs, health/character evidence, financial or care arrangements
Submit your online application while residing outside New Zealand
Once visa is granted, schedule your travel and ensure you enter New Zealand before visa expires
While in New Zealand, abide by visa conditions: stay for max 6 months at a time, leave before expiry, avoid working for a New Zealand employer
Key Features
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Multiple-entry travel over a 3-year visa term
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Stay up to 6 months per visit, total up to 18 months over the 3-year period
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Includes the applicant’s partner/spouse if applicable
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No work rights for a New Zealand employer (remote overseas work may be allowed)
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Focused on extended visits with family, not on permanent residence
Important Notes
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This visa does not provide a pathway to residence — if you wish to settle, you must explore the Parent Resident or Parent Retirement visa options
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Stay limits apply — ensure you do not exceed 6 months at a time or 18 months in total over 3 years
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Sponsorship is key — if the sponsor does not meet obligations (income, support, accommodation), the visa may be declined or cancelled
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Health and character assessments must continue to be satisfied throughout the stay
Summary
The Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa is a valuable option for parents or grandparents to spend extended time with their loved ones in New Zealand. Provided you meet the sponsorship, health, character, stay-duration and relationship requirements, this visa offers flexibility and meaningful time together across generations.
If you are ready, we can help you determine eligibility, prepare your documents and submit your application with confidence.