Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa
For parents and grandparents of New Zealand citizens or residents who want extended multiple-entry visits.
The Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa is a New Zealand family & partner visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~NZ$3,000 including levy (3-year multiple entry)) and processing time (~4-10 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa is for
For parents and grandparents of New Zealand citizens or residents who want extended multiple-entry visits.
No path to residence; for extended visits only, separate from the Parent Resident Visa.
Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa - eligibility criteria
- Be the parent or grandparent of a NZ citizen or resident
- Sponsor meets the income requirement
- Hold acceptable medical insurance for the visit
- Meet health and character requirements
- Show genuine intention to visit temporarily
Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa (New Zealand) is ~NZ$3,000 including levy (3-year multiple entry), with an indicative processing time of ~4-10 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Immigration New Zealand.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online, from outside or inside New Zealand |
| Length of stay | Up to 6 months per visit, 18 months total over 3 years |
| Work rights | No work allowed (visitor conditions) |
| Study rights | Study up to 3 months allowed |
| Government fee | ~NZ$3,000 including levy (3-year multiple entry) |
| Processing time | ~4-10 weeks |
| Route to PR | No path to residence; for extended visits only, separate from the Parent Resident Visa. |
Pathway & next steps
No path to residence; for extended visits only, separate from the Parent Resident Visa.
Many applicants also compare Parent Resident · Parent Resident Visa, Visitor Visa · Visitor Visa, Parent Retirement · Parent Retirement Resident Visa. Run a free VisaChief check to see which New Zealand route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa pitfalls we fix
Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa cost?
The Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa government fee is ~NZ$3,000 including levy (3-year multiple entry). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Immigration New Zealand before applying.
How long does the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~4-10 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa lead to permanent residence?
No path to residence; for extended visits only, separate from the Parent Resident Visa.
Can I work on the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa?
Work rights: No work allowed (visitor conditions).
Who can apply for the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa?
For parents and grandparents of New Zealand citizens or residents who want extended multiple-entry visits.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official New Zealand government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Immigration New Zealand - official New Zealand immigration authority